Cellulite is a common condition in which the connective tissue beneath the skin hardens at the same time that fat cells expand (due to weight gain). These events cause dimpling, or cellulite, on the skin's outer surface. There are many approved noninvasive treatments for cellulite that can be performed by a doctor. Most are safe, effective and cause minimal side effects.
TriActive
TriActive is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure that improves the appearance of cellulite and sagging skin through suction massage, localized cooling and low-energy laser diodes. These components work on both the outer layer of skin and the subcutaneous tissue to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, hydrate the skin and promote collagen production. It generally takes five to seven treatments lasting 30 to 60 minutes each before improvements can be seen, with full improvements generally visible in 10 to 15 treatments. Rarely, some individuals can experience swelling or discomfort after the treatments.
Velashape
Velashape is an FDA-approved body contouring device that uses bipolar radiofrequency energy and infrared heat to reduce the size of fat cells and tighten the skin. It also uses vacuum suctioning and massage to encourage drainage of trapped fluids in body tissues through the lymphatic system. It has been shown to reduce the appearance of cellulite and the circumference of the body in areas like the abdomen, upper thighs, love handles and arms. Treatments last between 45 and 60 minutes each and most people will begin to see results by about the fifth session.
VelaSmooth
VelaSmooth is a medical device approved by the FDA for the treatment of cellulite. It utilizes four energy modalities--infrared light, heat, bipolar radio frequency and vacuum suction--to break down, massage and redistribute fat tissue in order to create a smoother appearance. Treatments generally feel like a warm, deep tissue massage and may cause mild skin redness that usually goes away shortly after treatment. Each treatment lasts roughly one hour and improvements are typically seen after the fifth or sixth session.
Acoustic Wave Therapy
Acoustic Wave Therapy is a noninvasive cellulite treatment that uses mechanical vibrations to modify connective tissue in problem areas. It produces improvements in skin texture, elasticity and firmness through the use of one of two devices--a radial pressure applicator or planar applicator. The planar applicator uses an electromagnetic process to generate pressure waves that break up fibrous matter and stimulate collagen production. The radial pressure applicator generates a pressure wave through a small pellet in an air chamber. It can stimulate nerves, increase circulation and in some cases, improve muscle tone. Between six and 12 30-minute treatments are recommended with most seeing results after approximately six sessions. Side effects are rare although some redness or bruising may occur.
SmoothShapes
SmoothShapes is an FDA-approved cosmetic treatment used to smooth and tighten skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite. It utilizes laser energy, vacuum massage and a patented roller system to improve circulation, promote lymphatic drainage and promote collagen health. Treatment involves eight 30- to 50-minute sessions. The treatments are generally pain-free, although sometimes they may cause mild tenderness or redness that quickly subsides. Results produced by SmoothShapes are long-lasting, but temporary. Full results are visible within a week of completing the eight sessions of treatment; however, maintenance sessions will be needed in four to eight months.
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