If dimple cellulite is caused by tight bands pulling the skin in, what happens to the fibrous band after it is cut?

Question

I have some questions about Cellfina I know most surgeons recommend Cellfina for cellulite Though it appears that it only works the indented dimple type of cellulite spots. Not for the spongy type of bands of fat folds. So my first question is, even if the cause of the dimple cellulite is the tight bands pulling the skin in, what happens to the fibrous band after it is cut? Aren't those bands there for a reason? Doesn't sound healthy to have cut bands hanging around in the tissue? My second question is then what works best for the spongy cellulite? Skin tightening, more collagen?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

A combination approach would give the most improvement. Cellfina itself is the best treatment we have for cellulite but works best in combination with Sculptra and Renuva fat injections or bellafill both are long term; as well as body treatments like Venus Legacy/Exilis Ultra, Cellutone/Zwave. A VASER HI DEF procedure can be done for more contouring and smoothing, if you're a candidate. Smooth novathreads maybe can help build collagen as well and improve the appearance. Cellulite can't be cured, but can be improved with treatments and maintenance. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In my opinion, Cellfina works well for dimples in the buttocks area. Usually the skin is fairly taught in this area. For cellulite on the legs, the fibrous SEPTA need to be cut and the skin needs to be tightened. For this reason we prefer the Profound device. The individual dimples are  pulled taut after the cut septa are separated. Usually one or two sessions are necessary. Jeff Rapaport MD FAADRealself All-star

Susan Van Dyke, MD · Answer

Dimples are the prime target because they are pulled down by thick, inflexible fibrous bands. There are millions of tiny fine fibrous bands that connect the skin to underlying structures. Only when these few (usually 30 or 40 out of millions)become thick and tight do dimples result. Our aim is to very specifically release the offending abnormal bands, not touch the majority which are normal and part of healthy skin.In non dimpled cellulite there are options of non invasive skin tightening that are helpful and can be done in conjunction with Cellfina. We use Thermage and Ultherapy for this purpose with very nice results.

Diana L. Elias, MD (retired) · Answer

Your question regarding cutting of cellulite bands is quite insightful. Since this is a new technology, we only have clinical studies that are under 10 years long. So far there does not seem to be a problem with cutting these tissue bands. Regarding the second part of your question, it sounds like you may be referring to laxity of the skin. Unfortunately, there is currently no non-surgical means of correcting this problem.

If dimple cellulite is caused by tight bands pulling the skin in, what happens to the fibrous band after it is cut?

Answers (4)

Answer: Long term clinical studies have not shown any adverse effects from cutting cellulite bands

Answer: Long term clinical studies have not shown any adverse effects from cutting cellulite bands

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cellfina

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

If dimple cellulite is caused by tight bands pulling the skin in, what happens to the fibrous band after it is cut?

Answers (4)

Answer: Long term clinical studies have not shown any adverse effects from cutting cellulite bands

Answer: Long term clinical studies have not shown any adverse effects from cutting cellulite bands

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cellfina

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.