Cellulite is a very common aesthetic problem for women (and a few men) that has defied an absolute solution for many decades. The number of externally applied creams, lotions and massage approaches speaks to the fact that a successful non-surgical approach remains wanting. Numerous surgical approaches have also been used that focus on either releasing the vertical fascial bands and/or fat reduction that makes up the well known anatomy of celulite.
With over a billion dollars a year spent on treatments for the well recognized ‘cottage cheese’ thighs and buttock problem, the search for the next promising cellulite treatment is always ongoing. The new cellulite treatment introduced this year will be Cellfina. (Ulthera
Cellfina is a minimally invasive procedure whose objective is to release the vertical fascial bands. Under local anesthesia a vacuum-assisted tissue release is done to break up these bands. A small rotating blade introduced under the skin cuts the band and the vacuum pressure on the skin creates the complete release. It is purported to be a one-and-done procedure with results visible within a few days after the procedure and its effects last at least a year. The clinical trial studies report that some results can last for as long as three years. Clinical studies show a high patient satisfaction rating at 94% after one year.
Treatments take less than one hour to complete and Cellfina treatment costs range from $2,000 to $5,000 based on where one is located in the U.S. as well as how many cellulite areas are treated. Expect Cellfina devices to be more widely available later this year.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana