It is believed that up to 90% of women have some form of cellulite. However, cellulite also affects men as well. In recent years, various technological innovations have allowed countless individuals to achieve dramatic cellulite reduction, safely and effectively. Various non-surgical treatments are now available in most major North American cities. Do not hesitate to contact your local medical aesthetic clinic today for more information and price plans.
What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is a condition that causes one’s skin to become dimpled, as a result of accumulated fat.
Commonly Affected Areas
Cellulite is most commonly found on various parts of the body, including the back, thighs, and stomach. It is believed that hormones, such as estrogen, result in the production of cellulite, and stems from the connective tissue under the skin. A layer of fat accumulates under the skin and pushes against strands of connective tissue anchoring the skin to the muscle underneath.
Although less common, in men, cellulite is seen around the waist and abdomen.
Types of Nonsurgical Cellulite Treatment Options
Nonsurgical cellulite treatment options can be divided into 2 main categories, namely acoustic wave therapy and laser treatment.
- Acoustic Wave Therapy – This type of treatment often takes several sessions to see results. Often 4 to 5 treatments are needed. Some benefits of this type of treatment include its relatively pain-free process and limited downtime following the procedure.
During the appointment, a medical technician will analyze an individual’s body mass to see where they would best benefit from treatment. Areas will be treated for approximately 20 to 30 minutes each.
- Laser Treatment – Laser treatment is quickly growing in popularity as a way to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Laser treatment offers little to no discomfort and triggers new collagen growth in the surrounding areas. This results in smoother and tighter looking skin.
In addition, surgical methods of cellulite removal include Subcision and Vacuum-assisted precise tissue release, such as a laser. Vaser is considered the next generation of liposuction and combines an ultrasound with a vacuum-assisted lymphatic massage to stimulate metabolism and promote drainage.
Various cellulite creams, which promote lipolysis, stimulate collagen, and increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage, as well as dry brushing methods can be considered as well. Dry brushing is believed to stimulate the lymphatic system and boost circulation, resulting in smoother-looking skin.
Laser Treatment Specifics
Laser treatment for cellulite has become increasingly popular in recent years. Treatments can be broken down into several categories.
- Thermage – For example, Thermage skin tightening user radio frequency to heat up the outer layer of the skin (the dermis). This stimulates collagen production and improves blood flow, resulting in smoother skin.
Best of all, Thermage is non-invasive, and takes only 30 to 90 minutes per treatment, depending on the part of the body. Results are seen slowly over a 6 month period.
- BTL Unison– Similarly, BTL Unison combines thermal and mechanical energy to break down fibrous bands and improve circulation. Treatments take 20 to 30 minutes, and it takes about 2 weeks to see results.
- Velashape – Velashape uses infrared technology, radiofrequency, and massage to increase lymphatic drainage and reduces the number of fat cells. This non-invasive treatment is best for areas, such as the back, buttocks, abdomen, and love handles. It is also cheaper than Cellfina.
- Cellulaze – Cellulaze is a minimally invasive procedure that breaks down the structure of cellulite beneath the skin. Small lasers stimulate collagen production, flatten fat, and increase skin thickness. Results last about 1 to 2 years.
- Cellfina – Finally, Cellfina is a minimally invasive proven to reduce cellulite for up to 2 years. After some temporary bruising, results will be apparent in about a week. During this process, a medical technician will insert a thin needle under the skin to break up the cellulite.
Nonsurgical Cellulite Treatment Process
Depending on the area, treatment may have to be repeated up to 6 times for optimal results. The process varies, depending on the type of treatment; however, most procedures are performed in under 2 hours.
Costs of Nonsurgical Cellulite Treatment
The cost of nonsurgical cellulite varies, depending on a variety of factors, including location size, number of treatments required, the geographical location of the medical aesthetic spa, and the reputation and experience of the technician.
In general, nonsurgical cellulite treatment ranges from $3,500 to $6,500 USD, with an average cost of $4,250 USD per treatment.
For example, a BTL Unison treatment is approximately $1,000 USD per session, while Cellulaze is expected to cost about $1,000 to $2,000 USD per treatment.
Cellfina costs approximately $4,000 USD per treatment, while Velashape is approximately $1,000 USD cheaper.
Acoustic wave therapy costs approximately $200 USD per session for small areas, and $300 USD for larger areas, such as the upper thighs.
Choosing the Right Nonsurgical Cellulite Technician
Choosing the perfect nonsurgical medical technician is now easier than ever.
Consider asking friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations. In addition, it is also possible to simply search for a local spa in your area, and then browse through various review sites, such as Yelp, Google reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to narrow down the options.
Many businesses have websites with before and after portfolios and client testimonials. Many have current social media accounts as well, such as Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Ensure that the spa is neat and tidy. Is there dust on the shelves? Is the floor swept? Consider visiting prior to your appointment. Ensure that the staff replies to phone calls and emails promptly and professionally. Do they greet you when you enter the establishment?
Ensure that the technician is certified and possesses the necessary training. Ensure that they have kept up to date with recent innovations, as well as technological advances. Do they inspire confidence? Are they willing to answer your questions knowledgeably and patiently?
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
