Cellulite: New Treatment Horizons

Call it "cottage cheese", “peau d'orange”, “hail damage”, or “the mattress phenomenon” most girls cringe at the mere mention of the condition called cellulite. If you're a girl you are plausibly haunted by the appearance of cellulite on your body on account of the estrogen hormone. Cellulite refers to the dimple-like skin texture that some people develop on their thighs, hips or buttocks. It's more common in women than in men, in part because of the way the fat, connective tissue and the muscles are aligned in women's skin. Cellulite is caused by fat deposits that push against the connective tissues underneath the outer layer of skin and is not caused exclusively by obesity or weight gain.

So what can be done about this pesky and unsightly problem?

Many companies have toted creams, massages, therapies and other topical ways of dealing with cellulite. All of them have been relatively ineffective for curing the condition; most might improve it for a short time but require continual maintenance.

Latest Treatment Buzz:

A New York Times article earlier this year highlighted a new and increasingly popular procedure that deals specifically with cellulite, known as Cellulaze. The treatment is aimed at people who have tried diet, exercise or other methods to treat cellulite to no avail. The procedure requires local anesthesia and involves making small incisions in your skin so a small pen tip laser can be passed underneath to break up the connective tissue that creates the dimpling effect.

Studies have shown that this laser treatment under the skin increases the thickness of your skin by 25% and the elasticity of your skin by 29% —significant claims that haven't been made by any other treatments. Thicker and more elastic skin can help flatten and smooth the skin surface to improve the appearance of cellulite. In addition, 93% of patients surveyed after the treatment were satisfied or very satisfied with their results at one year post their procedure, and all volunteered to recommend the Cellulaze cellulite laser treatment to a friend.

While Cellulaze is approved by the FDA to treat cellulite, like any other cosmetic surgical procedure, there are limitations to the treatment. Some women who had the procedure –had excellent results with no more signs of cellulite coming back, but few women saw some complications like bruising and swelling.

It is important to note that patient selection is very crucial while choosing this technology. If someone has a large amount of cellulite and loose skin; she is by far not the ideal candidate. Over zealous treatments can give side effects like seromas (fluid build-up).

Make sure if you consider this treatment do your due diligence and go to a certified and experienced doctor with liposuction experience. As with any new technology, it’s always best to do your research and get advice from experienced physicians before making any decisions.