Is it safe to use hyaluronic acid for small cellulite ‘holes’ on my butt?

Question

I have two ‘holes’ on my butt (cellulite) and I would like to get hyaluronic injection for that. Is that safe?

Monica Boen, MD · Answer

I would need to see photos or examine you in person to determine the best treatment plan for you. I often treat cellulite using Cellfina, which is considered the gold standard for addressing this condition. Cellfina uses a process known as subcision to release the fibrous bands under the skin that lead to the dimpled appearance. However, I would need to know the extent of your cellulite to say whether Cellfina would be the best choice for you. Typically, we do not use hyaluronic acid fillers for this area for a variety of reasons. Fat grafting or a collagen stimulator like Sculptra might be an option. We also use laser devices to smooth and tighten the buttocks. I encourage you to schedule an assessment with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist to determine which treatment plan will work the best for your unique needs and goals.

Peter N. Butler, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question ! HA injectables are completely safe as long as they are administered by a trained health care professional that knows the anatomy and vasculature of this area.Keep in mind that fillers are a short term option.You may also consider fat transfer to these areas for a long term result. Depending on how large the areas are, fat transfer may also be the cheaper option as well.

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Hello jbnt29,  
It’s a pleasure to answer your questions! Unlike short lasting synthetic fillers, re-injecting your own fat may give you natural looking results that last longer, with no risk of rejection. Based on your description, I would recommend you getting a VASER 
Liposuction with fat transfer to the buttocks (Brazilian Butt Lift 
(BBL) combined with Renuvion (J-Plasma) for treating cellulite in your buttocks. With VASER Liposuction you can get rid of excess fat from 
specific areas such as upper arms, back, abs and flanks and safely 
transfer it to your hips and buttocks to give you an hourglass figure. Renuvion
 (J-Plasma) is an effective, cutting-edge device approved since 2012 by 
the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Dramatic skin tightening 
results are immediate and clearly
 visible with J-Plasma.  Combining the unique properties of helium plasma and radiofrequency energy, Renuvion
 (J-Plasma) produces dramatic and immediate effects on the soft tissues 
and skin when paired with the VASER Liposuction machine. Using Renuvion in conjunction with the 4D High-Definition
 VASER Liposuction guarantees smoother contours and significantly more skin retraction. Renuvion
 game-changing technology will not only firm up your skin but also it 
will improve some of the abdominal striae or “stretch marks” and cellulite that may be
 present. Most patients
 only require a single treatment with the Helium Plasma stream and 
plastic surgeons can see the effects in real-time to ensure optimal 
results. Consult with an 
experienced plastic surgeon to assess your candidacy for VASER 
Liposuction with fat transfer to the buttocks and Renuvion based on your age, skin 
laxity, body shape and health status, among other factors. Best regards!
 Dr. De La Cruz.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concerns, however photos would be helpful to provide a more detailed answer. Generally speaking, fillers are not as effective in areas other than face. Usually a significant amount of filler would be needed for contour irregularities like the one you are describing. It can also get very expensive! One option may be a fat transfer, which is more permanent and usually fairly abundant. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon in our area to evaluate the best option for you. Good luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

cellulite is best treated with Cellfina (when candidate) + Sculptra and Bellafill or Renuva.  more people are using Radiesse, but HA fillers do not last long here and will be very costly.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Luis Mario Salazar, MD · Answer

To improve a hole in your buttock area i will recommend perform 2 procedures, first one you can do subcision plus inject a collagen stimulation filler such as Sculptra or Radiesse, that will be enough to help you make that area even. Don't forget to go with an expert to have a safe and effective treatment. 
Best. Dr Luis Salazar
Aesthetic Solutions

Anteneh Roba, MD · Answer

Hyaluronic acid filler injections are. Definitely safe but are they the best option in this case? Better would be to do a fat transfer.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Cellulite can be tough to deal with. Sometimes release of the tethered fibers can help along with some fat grafting.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

A photo would be beneficial.  Filler has limited efficacy and duration. The area to be filled would likely also require more product than as is typical in the face.   Fat might be an option but the real issue is the cost/benefit.   Best wishes.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

If the cellulite dimples are small, they can be subscised and injected with wrestling or similar. On the other hand, larger dimples should also be subscised and treated with fillers such as Sculptra or the patient's own fat. Plain injections of fillers generally do not work as well. I hope this helps and good luck from New York City plastic surgery