Cellulite: Clinical Challenges and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Background: Existing cellulite interventions pose various clinical challenges related mostly to ecchymosis and recovery time.

Objective: To discuss the current treatment options for minimizing recovery time, efficacy of these options, and investigations into possible future approaches.

Methods: A roundtable meeting was convened to discuss and share views on the clinical challenges seen in the present practice of cellulite treatments along with future approaches and mitigation strategies. The participants' views helped guide a narrative review on this topic.

Results: Cosmetic clinicians have a range of new interventions to choose from for cellulite improvement, each with different benefits and safety aspects. Bruising is a typical side effect that is seen with treatments targeting the fibrous septa, such as subcision and injectable treatments, and in some cases may produce long-lasting hyperpigmentation from postinflammatory hyperpigmentation or hemosiderin staining. Various strategies that could potentially mitigate bruising and other adverse effects of cellulite treatment are under clinical investigation, including, but not limited to, different injection techniques and dilutions, compression garments, cold packs, arnica gel, pulsed dye laser treatment, intralesional epinephrine, and tranexamic acid.

Conclusion: Clinical challenges including varying treatment outcomes and certain treatment sequelae remain, and further research is needed to prevent side effects and improve treatment outcomes.