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Getting to cellulite without cutting the skinNon-invasive treatment refers to a class of therapies designed to improve the skin without cutting or ‘invading’ the skin. This means that the treatments are able to utilize energies while still leaving the skin intact. Non invasive treatments can include lasers, ultrasound, radiofrequency energy or a combination of these technologies. All are designed to deliver energy to fat and collagen cells within the skin to stimulate rejuvenation and smooth out cellulite. None of these treatments is a ‘cure’ for cellulite, however in many cases some improvement in cellulite is seen. Not every person treated with these devices will see results, and results can be highly variable. Here is a brief review of some of the devices used for non-invasive cellulite removal. This list is not exhaustive, but is merely meant to give you an overview of what’s available and how some of these technologies work.
TriActive™ Cellulite TreatmentTriActive laser is a low-energy laser device made by Cynosure® which aims to reduce the appearance of cellulite. It combines six diode lasers with a mechanical massage technique which is designed to improve circulation of the fat cells and increase collagen production. Treatment sessions generally last about 20 minutes, and 6 to 12 twice a week treatments are recommended for maximum affect. Results are temporary and maintenance treatments are required.
Accent XL™The Accent XL device is a radiofrequency energy device which uses heat to ‘melt’ fat cells which cause the appearance of cellulite. The manufacturer of Accent XL recommends between 3 and 6 treatments, spaced at two-week intervals, for best results. Results are temporary and follow-up treatments are needed to maintain any improvement.
SmoothShapes™SmoothShapes uses a combination of laser energy and vacuum massage to improve the look of cellulite. It can temporarily improve cellulite by increasing circulation and removing fat fluid from cells. Treatment sessions may last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the area treated. The manufacturer recommends 8 to 10 treatments over a four week period. Maintenance sessions are advised over 6 months thereafter.
Thermage®Thermage is a non-invasive mono-polar radiofrequency device which aims to tighten skin and provide some ancillary smoothing of cellulite. The heat from the Thermage handpiece penetrates deep into the skin to provide collagen remodeling and contraction. Generally only one treatment is performed, and final results may take several months to appear as the skin develops new collagen.
UltraShape™UltraShape is procedure currently available in Europe, Asia and Canada for the treatment of fat and cellulite, though it is not yet available in America. It uses ultrasound to heat the fat tissue and remove it. Some have stated that this technology holds promise, though more research and development may still be needed.
VelaShape™VelaShape uses a bi-polar radiofrequency energy, infrared energy and massage to tighten the skin and increase collagen production. The goal with VelaShape is to reduce the appearance of cellulite by tightening the skin and increasing the metabolism of fat cells. Treatment sessions may last 30-60 minutes, with 4-6 treatments for optimal results. Results are temporary and maintenance sessions are recommended.
It should be noted that none of the above treatments are cures for cellulite and results may significantly vary from patient to patient. |
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New, non-surgical treatments are now available, as mentioned in this clip from Dr. Geronemus
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