What is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a common cosmetic condition that results in a dimpled or lumpy appearance of the skin, most commonly affecting the buttocks and thighs. This texture often resembles an orange peel and is due to interactions between skin, fat, and connective tissues.

Fibrous Bands: Cellulite occurs primarily because of fibrous bands called septae, which tether the skin to the deeper tissues. In areas with cellulite, these bands pull the skin downward while the underlying fat pushes upward, creating a dimpled appearance.
Fat Beneath the Skin: The fat layer just under the skin can become uneven or swollen in areas affected by cellulite, contributing to its lumpy look.
Blood Flow and Fluid Build-Up: Poor circulation and fluid retention can worsen cellulite. Fluid build-up leads to swelling, which can make the skin appear puffier and accentuate the dimples.
Hormones: Hormones, particularly estrogen, play a significant role in the development of cellulite. Estrogen affects fat distribution, blood flow, and connective tissue strength, which is why cellulite is more common in women.
Skin Thickness and Elasticity: Thinner skin or skin that has lost elasticity due to aging can make cellulite more noticeable. As skin loses its elasticity, the underlying fat and connective tissues become more apparent.

Several advanced treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of cellulite:

Cross-section of skin layers and underlying tissue.

Aveli

What It Is: Aveli is a minimally invasive procedure designed to specifically target the fibrous bands that cause cellulite. It is particularly effective for cellulite on the buttocks.
How It Works: The procedure involves inserting a specialized device through small incisions. This device uses suction and mechanical energy to cut and release the fibrous bands responsible for pulling the skin downward. By breaking these bands, Aveli smooths out the skin's surface.
Benefits: Aveli provides precise targeting of the fibrous bands and generally has minimal downtime. Many patients see noticeable improvements in skin smoothness with results that can be long-lasting.
Considerations: Aveli is best suited for cellulite on the buttocks. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, MAC sedation, or general anesthesia, with a typical recovery and downtime of just one day.

Before and after plastic surgery results comparison

VASER Liposuction with Renuvion

What It Is: This treatment combines two advanced technologies—VASER liposuction and Renuvion—to address cellulite. It is especially effective for cellulite on the thighs.
VASER Liposuction: VASER (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) liposuction uses ultrasound technology to break down fat cells, making them easier to remove and minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
Renuvion: Renuvion (formerly J-Plasma) is a skin-tightening technology that uses a combination of helium plasma and radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. This not only helps reduce the appearance of cellulite but can also improve the appearance of stretch marks.
Benefits: VASER liposuction effectively removes excess fat, while Renuvion tightens the skin and can also enhance the appearance of stretch marks. The combined approach leads to significant improvements in both fat reduction and skin texture.
Considerations: Both procedures can be performed under local anesthesia, MAC sedation, or general anesthesia. Recovery and downtime are typically minimal, often just one day. This treatment is particularly effective for cellulite on the thighs.

Additional Reading

Figure 1: VASER Liposuction with RENUVION. The cellulite of the thighs, as well as the stretch marks on the buttock, improved after treatment with VASER liposuction with Renuvion and fat transfer.

These treatments offer targeted solutions for managing cellulite, with Aveli being optimal for the buttocks and VASER liposuction with Renuvion being effective for the thighs. Consulting with a qualified healthcare provider will help you determine the best treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

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If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, begin your journey with a clear, private, and unhurried consultation experience. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Emmanuel De La Cruz and experience surgeon-led care from the first conversation through recovery, guided by artistry, precision, and uncompromising safety.

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Cellulite Reduction