Cellfina: when should I do it, what's recovery consist of, will incision marks show? (photos)

Your cellulite problem is a common one. Fortunately, finally there are effective ways to minimize this problem. Perhaps the least invasive one is  Cellfina™. Cellfina is the only FDA-cleared minimally invasive, one-time procedure clinically proven to improve the appearance of cellulite for at least two years—the longest FDA-cleared duration for a cellulite treatment. A straightforward solution to cellulite, Cellfina™, combines a proven approach with innovative, proprietary technology, to produce precise, long-lasting results and has a high satisfaction rating on RealSelf. Together with Velashape 3, a non invasive procedure to help "shrink wrap the skin" and further minimize cellulite as a combination treatment is perhaps your best chance for taking care of this tough problem. Cellulaze is also a possible treatment but much more invasive

Cellfina is an FDA approved minimally invasive procedure that reduces the appearance of cellulite for at least two years on the buttocks and back of the thighs of women.It works by releasing the internal bands that cause the cellulite dimpling and so we have not seen any fat atrophy. You should not see much of a difference with weight gain or loss but this also has not been studied.  Other areas of the body with dimpling, it is important to make sure it is truly cellulite before treatment.It is common to have swelling bruising and firmness after the procedure. This can last for a few weeks.Cellfina has shown 100% noticeable improvement and 96% satisfaction in all patients at 2 years. Cellfina is designed to be a one time procedure. It can be used on women with all skin types but caution should be taken if theres a history of keloiding.  It can also be combined with other treatments such as Thermi or Ulthera if skin tightening is needed.We have done Sculpsure and Coolsculpting if fat reduction is wanted, but its best to wait 3 months to see the results before proceeding.It can also be done at the same time as other procedures such as liposuction and BBL or as a stand alone procedure in the office.Since Cellfina outcomes can be based on technique and experience, please see a board certified plastic surgeon that specializes body contouring to see if Cellfina or other treatments are available to meet your goals. Take care,Dr. Schwartz Board Certified Plastic SurgeonDirector-Beverly Hills Breast and Body Institute#RealSelf100Surgeon

Cellulite is caused from fibrous bands (septae) that create tension under the skin, creating a dimpled appearance.  Cellfina is a FDA approved, one time treatment that reduces the appearance of cellulite on the backs of the thighs and buttocks.  While cellulite appearance is  sometimes affected  weight gain/loss, the fibrous bands will still be present.  When we evaluate for treatable areas in our Cellfina patients, we have them flex their gluteal muscles to make "hidden" cellulite bands appear more present.  As far as weight gain/loss and treatment time, it would be optimal to have the treatment done when the bands are more apparent.  Regarding downtime, we are finding patients typically have 2-3 weeks of bruising, depending on how many areas were treated.  We recommend wearing a spanx type compression garment for 2 weeks and avoiding exercise for 30 days.  You would be able to wear any kind of clothing over the garment.  Because areas of firmness or softness can occur, the studies indicate that optimum results are 3 months after treatment.  Regarding incisions, there are no actual incisions except for the needle used to deliver anesthesia.  These sites are small and do not even require suture for closure.  Check with your specific provider in regards to planning your treatment and expected outcomes before proceeding with treatment.