Cellulite

Cellulite refers to the orange peel characteristics of the skin. This is due to the herniation of subcutaneous fat lobules through the dermohypodermal junction and the shortening and retraction of fibrosis of collagen septa.



There are many factors causing cellulite formation such as

1. Gender (female)
2. Increased age, especially after the teenage period
3. Genetics
4. Consumption of high carbohydrate foods – It stimulates insulin release and excessive fat production.
5. Sedentary lifestyle – If the body rarely moves when engaging in daily activities, it will cause changes in the blood circulatory system, the lymphatic system, and an accumulation of fluid in the body.
6. Hormonal imbalances – When some hormones like estrogen, prolactin, or insulin are imbalanced, fat and fluid will be produced and accumulated in the body. It is mostly found in women who had been pregnant and those with menopause.

Non-invasive cellulite treatments with no recovery period are as follows:

1. Exilis Elite – This US FDA approved innovation helps reduce cellulite and tighten loose skin on the abdomen and buttocks. Monopolar radiofrequency technology and ultrasound are used to eliminate lipolysis and lift the skin. The length of treatment for each area is about 15-30 minutes. It is recommended to perform this treatment weekly for 4 consecutive weeks. The results will be noticeable within 1-2 months after the treatment has commenced.

2.Thermage – This innovation implements monopolar radiofrequency technology to improve skin laxity on the buttocks, thighs, and abdomen – particularly in women after delivery. It is recommended to perform this treatment once a year. The results will be noticeable within 3 months after the treatment has commenced.

3. Acoustic wave therapy – This US FDA approved innovation is an effective way to reduce cellulite and improve skin elasticity and skin laxity using acoustic wave technology. According to this therapy, acoustic waves will penetrate the fat layers of the skin to eliminate fat excess, boost blood circulation, enhance lymphatic drainage, and stimulate collagen production.
It is recommended to perform this treatment for 6-10 times over a 3-week period. The treatment may be performed every other day or twice a week. The results will be noticeable within 3 months after the treatment has commenced. The patient’s weight should stabilize.

4. Coolsculpting – This non-invasive method uses cold temperatures to get rid of excessive fat (cryolipolysis), leaving no scar after the treatment.
 

*References

1. Sadick N. Treatment for cellulite. Int J Women’s Dermatol. 2018;5(1):68‐72.
2. Davis DS, Boen M, Fabi SG. Cellulite: Patient Selection and Combination Treatments for Optimal Results-A Review and Our Experience. Dermatol Surg. 2019;45(9):1171‐1184.