Does Liposuction Help Reduce Cellulite?

Liposuction does not get rid of cellulite. It is a method to recontour the body and treat localized areas of stubborn fat deposits. Some common locations for treatment include the abdomen, flanks, thighs, neck, and arm. Best, Dr. Khorasani

Liposuction is not designed as a treatment for cellulite, and the visibility of cellulite can sometimes be worsened with the surgery. However, it can also be improved depending on the method applied and surgeon's ability. Cellulite can be treated with nonsurgical methods. While results may not be as predictable and take longer to achieve, you can consider such options as micro needling.

How do Liposuction and Cellulite Relate?
Obesity, cellulite, stretch marks, a history of back and forth weight loss, or loose, sagging, inelastic skin are problems which would tend toward poor results during a liposuction. In fact, these problems may be worsened by this procedure and may be best addressed by other surgeries such as a leg or body lift (e.g. tummy tuck) to improve your appearance if appropriate (loose skin). Lymphatic massage may also be of benefit within the first year following liposuction.
For treatments that help to treat your cellulite, there is a laser treatment called Cellulaze that was recently approved by the FDA last year. This procedure is proven to show better results after only the first session. The outcome lasts one year or longer, but you may need followup sessions depending on the results.
 

Cellulite may improve or worsen, and often is unchanged by liposuction.  There could be exhaustive work trying to break apart the vertical collagen bands that hold down the skin in the cellulitic indentations with a special liposuction cannula built for this purpose and the cannula aspirates out the excessive fat.  There can be a higher chance of numbness in spots and bruising and even hematomas (blood collections).

Liposuction does reduce cellulite in some patients to a point.  The back and forth motion of the liposuction tears the fibers between the fat cells which cause the fat to dimple and look like cellulite on the skin.  Liposuctioning the fat out of the area, makes the shape of the area look better. However, the cellulite fibers usually recur in 6-12 months.  I find that liposuction makes the cellulite look better than before, but it doesn't completely remove it permanently. Radiofrequency wave machines like the Accent and the Velashape will help to keep the cellulite from recurring.