The term Cellulite is the non-medical term that is used to describe the superficial fatty deposits that collect and are pressed or compressed by the bands of connective tissues which start from the muscle and run to the undermost area of the skin. It is important to understand that not all excess deep layer fat does cause cellulite and even skinny people may have cellulites.
It has been estimated that about 90% of the female population will have cellulite at some point in their life. To check if you have cellulite, all you have to do is pinch your thigh slightly. If you see any bumps or dents, it indicates that you have cellulite. However, in most cases, this activity is not necessary and the ghastly dimples on the thighs are visible plainly.
Cellulite Therapy
Unfortunately, there is no definite cure for cellulite. However, a few therapies are available that help in the removal of the cellulite. These procedures have to be repeated periodically to ensure that the cellulite does not reappear. Here is the description of some of the procedures that are recommended in the case of cellulite therapy:
- Endermologie: is a machine that originated in France and was used successfully for 12 years before being introduced in America in 1996 after being approved by the FDA. These machines provide non-invasive and non-surgical mechanism to remove cellulite from the body. The machine contains a vacuum which helps is create a suction to immobilize and lift the soft tissue in the body while dual rollers also present in the device massage the connective tissues and fat globules thereby improving the appearance of the cellulite. The constant act of massaging helps loosen the tightly packed cellulite present under the skin and helps promote circulation. An Endermologie session lasts about 45 minutes and you can see the results from the 4th or 5th session onwards. Remember that the results produced by this or similar machines is not permanent and you will have to return for therapy at regular intervals.
- Superficial Liposuction: is a very controversial procedure and was introduced in 1989 with the intention of tightening skin in patients who had poor laxity or had lost a huge amount of weight in a short span of time. Here, small titanium cannulas with various tips are used to remove the fat cells that are close to the skin by causing minor damage thereby causing contractions of the skin. This procedure can produce disastrous results like discolorations, death of tissue and visible vascularity if not done correctly. Hence, check the references of the surgeon who is going to operate on you before opting for this procedure.
- Laser Liposuction: is generally targeted at smaller areas of fats and is used in conjunction with liposuction. Further, in this form of treatment, no harmful thermal wound develop thus making this procedure very popular.
- External Ultrasound Treatments: With the advent of technology, removal of fat without any form of surgery has now become a reality. Sadly, the amount of fat that is removed is very small. When ultrasound is passed over the cellulite area, it excites the fat cell, causing it to become weak or burst. The fat cell is eventually destroyed and the body begins the process of removing the fatty tissue immediately via its regular waste removal system.
Cellulite Therapy Myths
Apart from the procedures mentioned above, there are also a few procedures that promise miraculous results but are nothing but marketing gimmicks. The most common among these are body wraps including mud, herbal and seaweed, vinyl and plastic wraps. The truth is that body wraps do nothing but make you lose water and compresses the fat very temporarily sometimes only till your next meal.
Another ‘miracle’ product is the cellulite pills. These benefits of these pills have never been proven is a clinical study. As a matter of fact some companies have been made to pay refunds and penalties for the products that they have launched in the market. Sadly, people continue to buy them hoping for a miracle and are duped. Further, these products can also produce severe side effects and can damage your heart.
Before you decide to undergo any procedure, make sure that you have adequate information and a certified health care professional is going to perform the procedures. A good idea would be to request people who have already undergone cellulite treatment to share their experiences so that you can be well educated as to what to expect during and after the procedure. All the best!