Cellulite generally not treated by liposuction

Otto Joseph Placik, MD answers: Does liposuction cause cellulite?

I wont get lipo if it means cottage cheese thighs afterwards. Should i be concerned about cellulite will result from lipo surgery?


Otto Joseph Placik, MD
8 months ago

In many ways, cellulite is more related to the way the skin is attached to the muscle and not necessarily the fat.

That is why you can have an anorexic individual who is underweight, yet has cellulite on their thighs.

Some people believe it is related to the fluid that spreads among the fat cell layer and some of the more successful treatment modalities will target reducing the water content (Endermologie).

To answer your question, liposuction does not generally treat cellulite. When performed well, it does not usually make it better or worse. Somne techniques have been described that are performed simultaneously with liposuction ot minimize the appearance of cellulite but they have met with mixed success. These include special knives which cut the attachments of the skin to the muscle/fascia.

It is a complex problem which is not completely understood. I hope this helps to simplify and explain the condition.

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More answers to Does liposuction cause cellulite?

A: Cellulite and liposuction

Bahram Ghaderi, MD
9 months ago

Liposuction does not treat cellulite. Liposuction is meant to improve the contour of a specific area  - such as "saddlebags" or "love handles"  - that has localized fatty deposit that is resistant to diet and exercise. One risk of liposuction is contour irregularities postop. I believe that is what you are referring to when you say liposuction may make cellulite worse. To minimize the downsides - you should have good skin tone and treat only a localized area. The larger the area, the more likely you will have contour irregularities. Look for a board certified plastic surgeon and have a comprehensive consultation to discuss your concerns.

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