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Cellulite TreatmentsAlthough we have no way of permanently eliminating cellulite, several treatments and technologies have been developed and put into practice. All of these treatments focus on destroying the fibrous septae -- the chambers that encase cellulite fat cells -- and then dissolving the fat itself. Fat that has been broken down in this manner is then absorbed into the lymphatic system.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a limited number of cellulite treatments for use in the United States. Each of these falls under one of the following categories:
- Internal (Invasive) Treatments
- External (Non-Invasive) Treatments
- Alternative Therapies
Some popular treatments for cellulite have not been approved by the FDA: injectable lipolysis (such as Mesotherapy) and high-intensity focused ultrasound (UltraShape™ and LipoSonix™). Ultrasound shows promise for reducing body circumference and will likely receive FDA approval after further development. Injectable lipolysis, however, has been issued several FDA consumer warnings.
Finding the “right” treatmentEvery person is unique, and so is every cellulite situation. Treatment options will vary based on several factors: where you have cellulite, how old you are, how much recovery time you need, how much you plan to spend, and how comfortable you are with certain procedures. All of these factors should be discussed with a trusted physician.
Again, none of these treatments is permanent solution for cellulite. While the proper treatment may lessen the appearance of dimpling or "orange-peel" skin, you will probably need to follow up with maintenance sessions to keep your skin looking smooth and healthy. Regular exercise and healthy weight maintenance are also a necessary accompaniment to any treatment.
False Cellulite "Fixes"(1) Liposuction.
There are treatments for cellulite, but liposuction isn't one of them. Liposuction can actually aggravate a cellulite-affected area and make cellulite more visible.
(2) The anti-cellulite diet.
While eating healthy can have a great, positive impact on your life, there is no diet, fruit, or particular food that can protect you from cellulite. Even if you're in tip-top shape, the major determining factor in whether or not you get cellulite is your genetics -- not your diet.
(3) Drinking lots of water.
Cellulite is believed to be genetically predetermined -- your level of hydration has no bearing on whether or not you have cellulite.
(4) Anti-cellulite lotions and creams.
Cellulite occurs in the epidermis, but lotions and creams are purely topical. They cannot reach far enough down to have any effect on fat cells in the fibrous septae. Save your money and pass on these topical "treatments." |