If a dimpled surface on the thighs, hips, or abdomen bothers you, you are not alone. 80%–90% of women have cellulite in at least one area of the body, and it is a common concern in aesthetic medicine.
At Soza Clinic, we have a comprehensive approach to cellulite that we bring to our patients in Richardson, Texas. Some patients benefit most from lifestyle changes, while others may choose options that directly improve skin texture. We guide patients toward smoother-looking skin using methods that focus on the cause of cellulite.
Why Is Cellulite So Common?
Under the skin, the connective tissue forms flexible bands that anchor the skin to the structures underneath while being flexible enough to allow movement. Fat cells are between these bands, and when they push upward, the surface can look dimpled. Cellulite is so common because it is a natural feature that occurs when the skin, connective tissue and fat interact. Dimples in the skin are possible in people of all ages, weights, skin types and body shapes. Anti-cellulite treatments take all of these factors into account and often focus on strengthening the texture of the skin.
The Most Common Risk Factors of Cellulite
Being Female
Cellulite occurs much more often in women because of the way that connective tissues are arranged under the skin. In females, these bands are vertical, which makes it easier for any fat to push upward. In men, connective tissue is arranged in a criss-cross pattern, and males also tend to have thicker-textured skin that is less likely to show changes in texture. Estrogen also influences how and where fat is stored, and often causes more fat in the hips and thighs.
Body Fat Distribution
Certain areas of the body are more prone to cellulite than others. It can be found almost anywhere, including the abdomen, breasts, upper arms and back, but it is most common on the thighs and buttocks. Some people are genetically predisposed to store fat in the thighs and buttocks and may be more likely to have cellulite because of this.
Skin Thickness and Elasticity
Thinner skin and reduced elasticity from aging can make cellulite more visible. When there is less collagen supporting the surface of the skin, it may start to look less smooth. Collagen production decreases as you age, so you may notice more cellulite as time passes.
Can Losing Weight Also Reduce Cellulite?
The answer to this question depends on the person. Even if a person is thin without much excess fat, they can still have cellulite because of genetics and the natural quality of their skin. Weight loss also doesn’t always mean that you will lose fat right where you want to. Some areas, like the thigh or buttocks, are much more resistant to fat loss, even if your weight drops overall.
However, weight loss can help certain people, and there are many other benefits to achieving a healthy weight. If you and your practitioner decide that losing weight can help you both with your health and contouring goals, there are several options that can help you drop pounds more effectively.
Weight Loss Options That May Support Cellulite Improvements
Meal Planning
If you find it hard to plan meals that can help you lose weight, you can come to us for help. Our meal plans are easy and give you all of the macronutrients you need to feel full and energetic while also helping you build consistent eating patterns. These plans help reduce fluctuations in fat storage that may be influencing how visible your cellulite is, and getting the proper nutrition can also support the health and elasticity of your skin and underlying tissue.
Supplements and B12 Injections
Certain supplements can support metabolic function and skin health, especially if there are deficiencies in certain nutrients that may be causing the skin to be less resilient. We also use B12 injections to support metabolic processes and energy levels, which can help with weight loss and overall health.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a prescription medication that helps patients lose weight. It regulates appetite and metabolic processes to make diet changes more manageable. Losing weight can often be one of the first steps to improving cellulite, though we may also need to include skin-tightening treatments once you reach your target weight.
Why It Can Be Beneficial to Target Cellulite Directly
If you have lost weight and you still have noticeable cellulite, there are also treatments that target cellulite more directly. These treatments improve the quality of the skin to make it thicker and less likely to show dimpling. They also help improve circulation and drainage in the treated area.
Cellulite Treatment Options
Venus Bliss™
With this treatment, we use laser lipolysis to reduce fat where you are experiencing cellulite. Venus Bliss also has an (MP)2 applicator that is used for cellulite reduction. It blends multi-polar radio frequency and pulsed electromagnetic fields that work together during the treatment. This treatment improves lymphatic drainage with its VariPulse™ technology and we can monitor the temperature at all times during treatment.
Venus Versa™
Venus Versa is a platform that includes a multi-polar radiofrequency applicator that heats the skin at different depths. The skin responds to the heat and energy by stimulating more fibroblasts, resulting in the production of more collagen in the skin. The treatment can also increase blood supply in the area by encouraging new capillaries to form. The platform can get rid of cellulite by addressing both skin laxity and connective tissue tension in one treatment.
Venus Freeze™
Venus Freeze also uses multipolar RF and pulsed electromagnetic fields to gently heat the skin. It stimulates fibroblasts and encourages collagen and elastin production. This treatment is suitable for all skin tones, and there is no downtime after treatment.
What to Expect From Cellulite Treatments and Results
Cellulite treatments will not cure your cellulite, but they can make your skin more even and uniform where there is dimpling. You may still see some degree of cellulite after your treatment, and new areas can develop with time because of weight fluctuations and skin changes. However, you should notice a visible improvement in your skin and non-surgical treatments can be repeated when desired to keep skin smooth.
Get Smoother and More Resilient Skin With Cellulite Treatments in Richardson
At Soza Clinic in Richardson, TX, we use different methods to help your skin feel smoother and more even across areas like the thighs, hips and abdomen. To learn more about your cellulite treatment options or schedule an appointment, call 972-479-5187 or reach out through our online form. We work with patients from Dallas, Garland, Plano, Bedford, Arlington, Uliss, South Lake, Irving, Frisco and more.