What Are the Healing Stages of Cellulaze?

Question

I am 6 weeks post op and I see more larger bumps than before the procedure. I am trying not to look in the mirror every day, as I understand it's a slow healing process. Could you explain the biological stages after the procedure? Are there any pictures of patients at different stages that we could see to help us understand? Thank you for your feedback!!

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

The healing process after a Cellulaze treatment can be expected to last 3-6 months. During that period of time, your treated areas will go through many changes. Often, there is an initial improvement in the appearance due to swelling. As that swelling subsides (at different rates in different places), the treated area can return to its original appearance or look worse. But over some time, the results will eventually become apparent. Patience is truly a virtue when dealing with Cellulaze.

Michelle Spring, MD, FACS · Answer

The process does take many months - from initial bruising and swelling to a sometimes disappointing return to your previous state once the initial swelling subsides, to lumpiness and then slow improvement. We have found that massage or SmoothShapes treatments can help improve some of the lumpiness from fluid collections in the postoperative course and speed up recovery. Tissue and skin has "memory", and it takes a while for it to change and the fluid build-up to resolve, even though your surgeon likely felt the bands actually release during the treatment.

W. John Bull, MD · Answer

It really does take 3 to 6 months to see the final results and you will really love it at that point. The lumps are due to the process and they heal at different rates. So, don't worry you still have a lot of healing left to do!

Edward J. Bednar, MD · Answer

Initially for the first 4-8 weeks you may still see some bruising and swelling as well as experience bumps and lumpiness (caused mainly by swelling) which is all part of the natural healing process. Remember that the results will appear better and better as time goes on. We have seen amazing results at 6 mos out with the skin tightening effect of the procedure. You need to remain patient. I know it's absolutely nomal to keep checking to see on results every day, but rest assured that you will be very happy in the end Make sure you follow up with your PS if you have concerns in the interim.

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Cellulaze will take a few weeks to heal, be sure to wear the compression garment to keep the skin secure and help with swelling. Patients are able to return to work within 2 business days after the procedure.

What Are the Healing Stages of Cellulaze?

Answers (5)