Cellulite Reduction Treatments | San Diego, CA

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Cellulite Reduction Overview

Cellulite, also known as cottage cheese skin due to its distinct lumpy appearance, is often hereditary. If your mom had it, chances are pretty high that you will develop it as well.

In addition to genetics, hormones, weight fluctuations, and age can increase the likelihood you will experience cellulite at some point. Although weight gain can make cellulite more prominent, keep in mind that even slender women can develop this condition. However, if you have a lot of muscle and low body fat, your cellulite might not be as apparent.

There is no “cure” for cellulite. However, Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego offers the most effective treatments for reducing the appearance of cottage cheese skin. We are on the cutting edge of all the latest cellulite-reducing technologies to help you achieve smoother skin and a higher level of confidence.

Our expert team of board-certified dermatologists offer expertise and experience in treating cellulite through a variety of treatment options. In addition to participating in research studies as new procedures are developed, our doctors have published on the subject of cellulite, including this textbook co-edited by Dr. Mitchel Goldman.

How does Cellulite Occur?

Many people have the erroneous impression that cellulite is related to weight gain. Cellulite is not actually caused by weight gain itself, but rather by an abundance of connective tissue anchoring skin to muscle. This connective tissue, called septae, constricts and pulls the skin down, creating the characteristic dimples of cellulite. Women tend to have more of these fibrous bands than men, which is why cellulite is much more prevalent in women than in men.

Cellulite most often appears on the buttocks and the backs of the thighs, although it can also appear in other areas of the body. Some women find they can manage their cellulite somewhat through exercise, diet, and kicking the smoking habit. Topical creams can also help reduce the appearance of cellulite. However, the only way to produce dramatic improvement is through a professional treatment, performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego.

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Treatment Options

Dr. Boen's Cellfina Youtube Video Preview Photo

Each of these treatments works in a different way to help the skin look more toned and even. By discussing your concerns and goals in detail, your doctor can create a customized treatment plan to help you achieve the best results possible.

Watch this video by Sabrina Fabi, MD, to learn more about our cellulite treatment options.

Qwo

Cosmetic Laser Dermatology of San Diego is pleased to announce the arrival of another option in cellulite treatment in 2021. Collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes, known by the brand name Qwo, is an injectable treatment designed to target moderate to severe cellulite on the buttocks. The treatment releases the septae enzymatically, offering a similar result to Cellfina using only injections into the buttocks. A series of three treatments, spaced 21 days apart, should provide patients with very good results. To learn more about Qwo, watch this video.

Two of our dermatologists, Dr. Mitchel Goldman and Dr. Sabrina Fabi, participated in the FDA-approval studies for this cellulite treatment. Although the injectable just became available in the spring of 2021, our doctors have already had ample experience using Qwo and now are offering it to our patients.

Resonic

A new dual-platform device called RESONIC aims to revolutionize cellulite reduction with the science of sound. By utilizing high-power sound waves, RESONIC provides patients with a completely non-invasive treatment that effectively reduces cellulite in just one session. The RESONIC device’s high-pressure shockwaves can also break up body ink to help remove unwanted tattoos in as few as 3 sessions. We believe that this technology may enhance existing technologies to help treat BOTH cellulite and tattoos.

Cellfina

San Diego Cellulite Treatment Options

Cellfina is considered the gold standard in cellulite treatment for most women. It is an innovative device that automates the subcision process, effectively releasing the septae (fibrous bands) connecting the skin to muscle. By releasing the bands, the procedure effectively smooths out cellulite dimples. Cellfina is a minimally-invasive procedure that is both quick and comfortable, depending on the number of dimples treated. It generally takes around one hour to treat 25 dimples. Recovery time is quick as well, with patients able to return to work right away in most cases. There may be some swelling, bruising, or discomfort following the procedure, but this can be managed easily with over the counter painkillers. Side effects rarely last longer than a few days.

Ionithermie

Ionithermie is a cosmeceutical treatment performed by our medical aesthetician. This treatment promotes healthy circulation and reduces toxins at a cellular level, which in turn leads to a smoother and more toned skin appearance overall. This toned appearance includes a reduction in the appearance of cellulite as well as improved skin texture, better muscle tone, and an overall slimming effect.

TriActive

TriActive is a laser treatment cleared by the FDA for reducing the appearance of cellulite. This treatment is painless with no downtime and is a great complement to liposculpture if you are concerned with both excess fat deposits and cellulite. The procedure takes half an hour, and a series of 14 sessions is recommended for optimal effect. We also offer a 50-minute post-operational tri lymph massage for liposculpture patients.

Sculptra

Preview Photo of Dr Monica Boen Video Injecting Radiesse into Buttocks

Sculptra is often thought of as an injectable treatment for the face, but it’s also an effective treatment for reducing cellulite, tightening the skin, and adding volume to the buttocks. By stimulating the body’s natural production of collagen, Sculptra can help reduce the appearance of cellulite and contour the buttocks in the process. Results develop over time and can be long-lasting.

Z Wave

Z Wave is a painless, non-invasive treatment used to smooth and tighten the skin. The procedure uses acoustic wave therapy to deliver sound waves into the dermal layers, firming and smoothing the treatment areas. Depending on your specific cellulite concerns, we recommend multiple Z Wave treatments in order to see the best results. Most patients can expect to have 8 treatments, with 2 treatments scheduled weekly. Maintenance sessions after the initial 8 treatments will keep visible cellulite to a minimum. Z Wave works as a stand-alone treatment, or in conjunction with other contouring treatments like CoolSculpting to further enhance results.

Learn more about Z Wave by reading the following information:

Cellulite affects the skin and confidence of many women today, but the good news is you don’t have to live with that dimpled look. With numerous, effective treatments available today, you can keep the cottage cheese skin at bay and flaunt your skin in shorts and bathing suits. Contact our office today to discover which cellulite treatment is the best option for you.

Photos

Qwo injections to treat cellulite on the buttocks by Dr. Fabi

Cellfina to treat cellulite on the buttocks and thighs of a female patient by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed.

Cellfina to Treat Cellulite on the Buttocks and Thighs by Dr. Fabi

Before and after Cellfina to treat cellulite by Dr. Fabi

Before and after Cellfina for cellulite by Dr. Fabi

Before and After Cellfina for cellulite by Dr. Fabi

Before and after Cellfina for cellulite by Dr. Fabi

Before and after Cellfina to treat cellulite by Dr. Fabi

Before and after Cellfina to reduce cellulite by Dr. Fabi

Before and after Cellfina to reduce cellulite on the buttocks by Dr. Fabi

Actual un-retouched patient before and after Cellfina treatment to reduce cellulite on the buttocks and thighs by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed.

Before and after Cellfina to reduce cellulite on the buttocks and thighs with Dr. Fabi

Actual un-retouched patient before and after Cellfina to reduce cellulite on the buttocks and thighs by Dr. Fabi. Disclaimer: Results may vary from patient to patient. Results are not guaranteed.

Before and after Cellfina treatment to reduce cellulite on the buttocks and thighs by Dr. Fabi

Videos

Make Your Bottom Your Top Priority With Cellulite Reduction Treatment in San Diego

4 Fun Facts About Cellulite and How to Eliminate it With This One Treatment by Cellfina

Cellfina Demonstration by Dr. Boen: Reduction of Cellulite in the Buttocks

Sculptra Treatment for Adding Volume to the Buttocks

Cellulite Causes & Solutions

Dr. Goldman Discusses Cellulite Treatments

Cellfina for Cellulite Treatment

Cellfina for Cellulite Removal with Dr. Boen (1:59)

FAQs

Q: Can cellulite be treated with liposuction?

A: Liposuction can not treat cellulite. In fact, liposuction may make cellulite worse by making the dimples more prominent. Liposuction is a great choice for people at or near their goal weight who want to reduce small areas of fat that are unresponsive to diet and exercise, but it is not a weight loss tool and it is not a treatment for cellulite.

Q: What about topical cellulite treatments?

A: The problem with topical treatments is that they do not address the core cause of cellulite - the tightening of the fibrous bands that leads to skin dimpling. You might see some temporary improvement by enhancing the appearance of the skin, but to truly eliminate cellulite, you need a treatment that targets the bands.

Q: Do cellulite treatments hurt?

A: Cellulite treatments are relatively comfortable for our patients. Qwo does not require any anesthesia, while topical numbing is provided before a Cellfina treatment. Patients may experience some mild swelling and bruising after their procedure, but it should not keep you from your regular activities.

Q: Are cellulite treatments permanent?

A: Cellulite treatments are extremely long-lasting and some may be permanent, since these procedures target the fibrous bands that are the core cause of the dimpling. It is possible for new cellulite to appear in the same area or a different location, necessitating additional treatment to maintain your positive results.

Q: How do I know which cellulite treatment is right for me?

A: At your initial consultation, your board-certified dermatologist will spend time discussing your specific concerns and goals. A comprehensive examination is also performed to assess the extent of your cellulite and to determine the best treatment option. Rest assured we customize every treatment to the precise needs of each patient to ensure the best possible results.

Promotions

For more information about the monthly specials offered at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, visit our Promotions page.

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