Summer can be a particularly difficult time for people dealing with the issue of cellulite, which could otherwise be covered in colder seasons. Little is known about what causes cellulite, but it involves fibrous connective bands that bind the skin to the underlying muscle. The fat cells between these two layers push up on the skin, while the long, hard strips pull down, creating an uneven surface or dimpled, orange appearance. The problem worsens with aging as the skin loses its youthful firmness and elasticity and the dimpled appearance becomes even more pronounced. It affects women more than men and can affect thin as well as heavier people.
Some of the currently available treatments for cellulite include:
Cellfina®, a minimally invasive procedure approved by the FDA for the treatment of cellulite on the thighs and buttocks. A surgeon inserts a tiny blade under the skin to cut the fibrous bands that trap fat and create the dimpled appearance of cellulite. This treatment does not address the sagging skin that contributes to cellulite. Downtime consists of some pain along with swelling and bruising. Results are visible immediately with guaranteed results for one year. Average cost: $3925 depending on the size of the area treated.
Enterology is a deep tissue massager that breaks up and releases pockets of fat from connective tissue. It was the first FDA-approved cellulite treatment and requires 8–10 sessions for best results. It may work best in combination with other fat reduction treatments, giving the skin a smoother appearance and the results are temporary. Average cost: $60-$100 per session
BodyTite is a minimally invasive procedure often done with liposuction. After the anesthesia is in place, the surgeon makes a small incision in the skin in the treatment area through which a catheter is inserted. Another probe is slid over the skin, placing the skin between the two probes. Radio frequency energy is passed between the two probes which helps to tighten the skin. Downtime consists of some pain, swelling and bruising. Results last up to a year. Average cost: $6650 depending on the size of the area treated
Cellulase® is a minimally invasive FDA-approved cellulite treatment that uses a small laser under the skin to tighten the skin and cut fibrous bands. Downtime consists of pain, swelling and bruising. Results can last over a year. Average cost: $5800 depending on the size of the area treated
Acoustic wave therapy such as Z-Wave® uses shock waves over the skin of the affected areas to tighten the skin and relax the fibrous bands that cause dimpling of the skin. There is no downtime, but it takes about 12 treatments over 6 weeks to be effective.
EMTONE™ is a non-invasive FDA-cleared treatment designed to treat all aspects that contribute to the appearance of cellulite and can be used anywhere on the body where cellulite is a problem. It uses skin-tightening radio frequency energy combined with acoustic wave therapy that tones the skin, boosting circulation and discouraging fluid collection that contributes to the uneven appearance of cellulite. The sound waves also relax the fibrous bands that contribute to the dimpled appearance. 4-6 painless treatments are required per treatment area. It takes time for the body to remodel, so results may take 3 months to become fully apparent and optimization treatments are required in 6-12 months. Average cost: $250-$750 per session depending on the size of the area treated.
EMTONE™ is the newest addition to the BTL Empire corps® which also include EMSCULPT® for muscle growth and permanent fat reduction as well as EMSELLA® for urinary incontinence and enhancement of sexual function.
