Having worked with thousands of patients over the years, I’ve noticed one aesthetic issue that comes up regularly: cellulite. It’s perhaps one of the most common complaints from patients, and can significantly impact self-esteem and the ability to feel fulfilled with one’s appearance. Let’s take a closer look at this issue and some of the traditional treatment methods, and a new, revolutionary procedure called Cellfina.
Contrary to popular opinion, cellulite isn’t something caused by lack of exercise. It’s a genetic condition that creates the appearance of dimples on the thighs or buttocks.
The underlying mechanics of the problem have to do with the tethering chords that attach the skin to the underlying fascia. The chords create a dimpling effect by pressing down on the fat in a sort of crisscross pattern.
I’ve had patients tell me that they feel embarrassed by not being able to get rid of cellulite through diet and exercise. However, there is absolutely no reason to beat yourself up over this, because none of it is your fault – you can’t control your genetics.
When it comes to treating cellulite, patients have multiple treatment options. However, some are significantly less effective than others.
The biggest issue with traditional subcision is that it’s performed “blindly.” The reason for this is actually quite simple:
The appearance of cellulite changes depending on whether you’re standing up or lying down. Before the procedure, the surgeon needs to mark up the position of the dimples on the body while you are standing up. However, the actual subcision must be performed when you are laying down, for safety reasons.
Therefore, even though the surgeon has marked the treatment areas, the position of the bands responsible for the dimples will change slightly when you lie down, making it harder to precisely pinpoint where the tissues must be separated.
Cellfina is a new treatment option and provides improved outcomes because it significantly improves the precision of treatment.
Just like with traditional subcision, your provider will first mark the cellulite dimples while you are standing upright. Once the procedure starts, a suctioning the device is used to pull the dimple outward. This allows for much better targeting and allows the surgeon to release the tethering chords with significantly greater precision.
Here are some additional highlights about Cellfina:
As with any procedure there are also a few potential side effects that may occur after Cellfina treatment, and it’s important to follow all aftercare instructions:
When working with your provider, you want to make sure that you are in agreement about the treatment area beforehand.
Therefore, it’s vital to communicate this with your provider and make sure that they understand the exact area you are talking about. After all, there may not be a very clear transition from the part of the buttock/thigh that concerns you to the part that doesn’t.
Further, as you’re going thru the marking process before the procedure, make sure to pay close attention that the right areas are being marked up. It’s your body, and your aesthetic goals, and it’s vital to make sure that you and your provider are working as a team, and that the communication is crystal-clear.
At Illuminate we’re with you during every step of your journey toward greater self-confidence. Schedule a consultation with us today and let Illuminate’s expert team listen to your concerns and guide you through treatments and procedures to help you reach your individual goals. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating your renewed appearance and realized potential.