Treatment of cellulite

Doctors, aestheticians and health practitioners came up with a number of ways to treat and remove (or alleviate) the cellulite condition. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) after reviewing many of them has come with the following list of techniques that may be successful in reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Acoustic wave therapy uses a hand-held device to transmit sound waves. It may work, but it can take several sessions.

Laser treatment may improve the appearance of cellulite for a year or more. It involves inserting a very small laser probe under the skin. The laser is then fired, breaking up the tissue. This can also thicken the skin by increasing collagen production. The thickened skin may reduce the appearance of the cellulite below.

Subcision involves a dermatologist putting a needle under the skin to break up the connective tissue bands. Results can last 2 years or more, says the AAD.

Vacuum-assisted precise tissue release cuts the bands using a device containing small blades. As it cuts the connective bands, the tissue underneath moves up to fill the space under the skin, removing the appearance of cellulite. This may last for 3 years, but data on its success is limited.

Carboxytherapy involves inserting carbon dioxide gas under the skin. Side effects include bruising and discomfort after the procedure, but some cellulite might disappear.

Endermologie involves a deep massage with a vacuum-like device that lifts the skin. The United States (U.S.) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved it as safe.

Ionithermie cellulite reduction treatment involves covering the affected area with a special mud or clay, then wrapping it in plastic before applying an electric current. It is not proven to be effective.

Radiotherapy aims to reduce cellulite by heating it, but any results are short-term.

Laser-assisted liposuction removes small amounts of fat, but this may make dimpling worse. Research has not yet shown that it works to reduce cellulite.

Ultrasonic liposculpting targets and destroys fat, but again, research is lacking to show that it works.

Techniques that the AAD do not recommend include cryolipolysis, which freezes fat, mesotherapy, which involves injecting a mixture of substances under the skin.