Do you have dimpled skin on your thighs or buttocks that looks like cottage cheese? You’re not alone—millions of people, regardless of their weight, experience this common condition known as cellulite. While many turn to weight loss in hopes of smoothing out the appearance, this approach often falls short. Losing weight may reduce the visibility of cellulite to some extent, but it doesn’t address its underlying cause.
If you’re wondering why losing some weight doesn’t fully eliminate cellulite and what you can do to treat it effectively, read on. We’ll explain the real reasons behind cellulite and introduce the FDA-approved treatment that can truly make a difference.
What is cellulite?
Cellulite is a skin condition that causes a dimpled appearance, typically on the thighs, buttocks, or stomach. It occurs when fat cells push against the connective tissue beneath your skin, creating dimples. Fibrous bands of connective tissue pull the skin downward, while fat pushes upward, forming the bumpy look.
While weight gain can make cellulite more noticeable, it’s primarily caused by genetics. Even slim individuals can have cellulite. In addition to slimming down, many individuals have also tried creams (retinol creams), gels, and ointments to treat their cellulite. Since the issue of cellulite is in these deep tissues, these topical treatments usually have little to no effect.
Can cellulite be gone through weight loss?
One common question people ask is whether losing weight can get rid of or reduce cellulite. While slimming down may reduce the appearance of cellulite to some extent, it won’t completely eliminate it.
Here are some of the factors why:
- The problem is in the tissue: Loosing some weight may reduce the amount of fat under the skin, which can make the dimples appear less pronounced. However, this does not address the deeper cause of cellulite—the fibrous connective tissue.
- Genetics: Even lean individuals with little body fat can cause the appearance of cellulite due to their genetic predisposition to it.
- Lifestyle: If you have unhealthy habits (like smoking) and diet, you can also acquire cellulite. Smoking, in particular, can damage the tissues. This allows fat to push to the surface, leaving you with cellulite.
Why Weight Loss Isn’t Enough
Even though weight reduction might decrease the size of fat cells, it doesn’t change the way the fibrous tissue is arranged. The tension in the connective bands is still there, so unless these bands are treated directly, cellulite will persist. It may improve the overall texture of your skin to some extent, but it won’t eliminate the continuous appearance of cellulite.
Factors That Influence Cellulite Appearance
While weight plays a role, several other factors contribute to the formation of cellulite:
- Genetics: Your genetic makeup determines how your body stores fat and the structure of your tissues, which can increase or decrease your likelihood of developing cellulite.
- Hormones: Hormonal changes related to pregnancy, menopause, or puberty can influence fat distribution and skin elasticity.
- Age: As you age, your skin naturally loses collagen and elasticity, making cellulite more noticeable.
- Lifestyle Factors: Poor circulation, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and poor diet can worsen the appearance of cellulite over time.
How Does Cellfina Work to Treat Cellulite?
If weight loss alone can’t eliminate cellulite, what can? Fortunately, there are effective treatments available that target the root cause of cellulite. One of the most advanced options is Cellfina, a proven, FDA-approved procedure designed to treat the structural cause of cellulite by targeting the fibrous bands.
How Cellfina Works:
- The area is cleaned, and a numbing solution is applied.
- The device uses suction to lift the tissue, and a handpiece cuts the fibrous bands, smoothing out the skin.
Recovery:
- Most patients feel minimal discomfort and can resume normal activities in 1-2 days.
- A compression garment is worn for 4 weeks to improve results.
- Some bruising and swelling may happen, but recovery is quick. Over-the-counter pain relief can help with any discomfort.
- Results from Cellfina can be visible within as little as three days, with even more noticeable improvements over the next year. By two years post-treatment, 96% of patients report high satisfaction with the results.
Other Treatment Options
In addition to Cellfina, there are other cellulite reduction treatments available, though none are as effective or long-lasting.
- Liposuction: Removes fat but does not address the fibrous bands.
- Laser Therapy: Targets the skin surface and can improve skin tone, but it does not directly treat the underlying causes of cellulite.
- Topical Creams and Lotions: Often marketed as cellulite treatments, these have little to no effect because they can’t penetrate deeply enough to treat the issue.
Who is a good candidate for Cellfina?
Cellfina is ideal for people who:
- Have mild to moderate cellulite: Cellfina works best for individuals with visible cellulite in areas like the thighs, buttocks, or stomach.
- Have stubborn cellulite: Ideal for those whose cellulite hasn’t improved with diet, exercise, or topical treatments.
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should wait until after their pregnancy to undergo Cellfina.
- Are at or near their ideal weight: Ideal to those close to their goal weight often see the best results.
- Are in good overall health: Candidates should be in generally good health and have realistic expectations about the results.
Benefits of Cellfina
Cellfina comes with plenty of benefits for anyone looking to smooth out cellulite. It’s FDA-cleared, non-surgical, and designed to be quick and easy, with minimal discomfort and a short recovery time. Most people notice visible results in just a few days, and the effects are long-lasting. By targeting specific types of cellulite, Cellfina provides a personalised solution that patients are consistently happy with.
FAQS about Cellfina Treatment
Does cellulite go away when you lose weight?
No, it won’t completely eliminate cellulite, but it can reduce its visibility. While fat cells are permanent, strengthening muscles can help create a smoother appearance.
How are cellulite and lipedema different?
The primary difference is that cellulite is a harmless cosmetic concern, whereas lipedema is a health condition that may result in pain, restricted movement, and other complications.
How painful is cellfina?
Cellfina is a minimally invasive treatment that is typically regarded as being fairly comfortable with little to no pain.
How long does cellfina results last?
In most cases, the effects of this treatment can last between 1 and 3 years. However, some individuals experience results from a single session that persist for up to 4 years.
How much does cellfina cost?
The cost of Cellfina can vary depending on factors like the treatment area, the provider’s expertise, and the location of the clinic. On average, Cellfina treatments range from $3,000 to $6,000.
How many sessions does cellfina need?
Typically, one Cellfina treatment is sufficient to achieve ideal results. However, the number of sessions required can depend on the severity of the cellulite and the number of dimples being treated. Those with more pronounced cellulite may require additional sessions.
Can I combine Cellfina with other treatments for better results?
Yes, for the best results, Cellfina treatment is most effective when paired with dermal fillers and radiofrequency devices. Laser treatment can also reduce cellulite’s appearance. However, it’s important to note that Cellfina doesn’t treat loose skin.
Book Your Cellfina Consultation with Dr. Diehl
If you’re tired of dealing with stubborn cellulite and want to see real, lasting results, Dr. Diehl and her skilled team are here to help. With Cellfina, you can finally achieve smoother, tighter skin. Dr. Diehl will work closely with you to assess your specific needs, answer all your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan designed for your unique body.
Don’t wait to feel confident in your skin again. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Diehl.
