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Review
. 2018 Oct 22;5(1):68-72.
doi: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2018.09.002. eCollection 2019 Feb.

Treatment for cellulite

Neil Sadick  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Treatment for cellulite

Neil Sadick. Int J Womens Dermatol. .

Abstract

Cellulite is a multifactorial condition that is present in 80% to 90% of postpubertal women and is one of the most intolerable esthetic imperfections. There are several theories on the pathophysiology of cellulite, and a number of different therapeutic regimens have been developed, from topical treatments to mechanical or energy-based devices. In this brief review, we summarize the scientific landscape to determine the clinical evidence with regard to the safety and efficacy of cellulite treatment options. Clinical protocols and the author's experience using a combination of internal and external procedures are also discussed. Studies using laser and light modalities along with radiofrequency have shown improvements in cellulite and a good safety profile, but acoustic wave therapy, subcision, and the 1440-nm Nd:YAG minimally invasive laser have demonstrated the most beneficial results in cellulite reduction. Although there is paucity of scientific evidence for treatments that improve cellulite, future emerging options and their combination may pave the way to eradicate this primarily cosmetic esthetic concern.

Keywords: Cellulite; adipocytes; lasers; pathophysiology; radiofrequency.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Before (left) and after (right) seven treatments in the outer thigh with Venus Legacy (Venus concept, Toronto, Ontario, Canada).
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Before (left) and after (right) one treatment in the buttocks with 1440 nm Cellulaze (photograph courtesy of Cynosure).
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Before (left) and after (right) six treatments in the buttocks with Z-wave (photograph courtesy of Zimmer).
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Before (left) and after (right) five treatments in the buttocks with poly-l-lactic acid (one vial; photograph courtesy of Arruda Dermatology).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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