Cellulite

Lipodissolve & Mesotherapy are by far the most effective long lasting treatment for this condition that effects more than 80% of women. It offers a long lasting solution compared to Endomologie and Radiofrequency devices, which offer short term improvement. Liposuction is absolutely not indicated for the treatment of cellulite as it aggravates skin sag and therefore worsens the appearance of cellulite.

What causes cellulite?

The causes of cellulite are multifactorial. They include:

  • Enlargement of fat cells
  • Poor circulation and tissue fluid retention
  • Defective connective tissue which binds local tissue
  • Poor diet and nutrition resulting in impaired tissue function
  • Environmental damage for example from toxins like alcohol and cigarette chemicals
  • Hormonal factors

    • Cellulite appears in the fatty zone that is directly below the surface of the skin. In this zone fat cells are arranged in chambers that are held together by a connective tissue lattice network.

    As cellulite develops –

  • The fat cell chambers swell due to sluggish circulation, combined with increased fluid, toxin and fat retention.
  • The connective tissue lattice tightens, hardens and loses its elasticity. This process is called sclerosis.
  • The overlying skin loses its firmness and the decreasing collagen skin component allows the underlying defects to become easily visible.

    • As the process develops the swollen fat cell chambers push some parts of the thinning skin layers outwards and at the same time the hardening connective tissue lattice pulls other areas of the skin layer inwards. The end result is that your skin begins to look like an overly quilted mattress, with the tissue having that dreaded lumpy, ‘cottage-cheese’ appearance.

    Cellulite affects over 80% of all post-pubescent women. It is not only in overweight people and is often present in very lean people, as well as those who are fit and athletic. It is most commonly seen on the upper thighs and lower buttocks. Psychological test reveal that cellulite has a high correlation with low self esteem and self image in women. Recent media claims that lipodissolve is a new breakthrough medical cure for cellulite are not correct as it has been safely and successfully been used to treat cellulite in Europe and South America for many years.

    Cellulite Grades

  • Grade 0 – No dimpled skin or ‘cottage cheese’ appearance even when the skin is pinched.
  • Grade 1 – Dimpling only present when skin is pinched.
  • Grade 2 – Dimpling only visible whilst standing
  • Grade 3 – Dimpling present regardless of body position

    • The Goal of Cellulite Therapy is to smooth the skin by:

  • Reducing swollen fat compartments
  • Improving impaired blood circulation to the area
  • Improving impaired lymphatic drainage from the area
  • Breaking down damaged connective tissue in the fat layer
  • Stimulating collagen formation in the skin layer to thicken and tighten the skin
  • Increasing tissue nutrition and decrease tissue toxicity
  • The ultimate treatment goal is to transform each patient’s cellulite to Grade 1.

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