Can Liposuction Help with Cellulite?

January 09, 2025

cellulite on womans buttox

Cellulite is a common cosmetic concern, affecting nearly 90% of women and less than 10% of Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Cellulite Cleveland Clinic Go to Source men . Characterized by a dimpled, uneven texture on the skin, it typically appears on areas such as the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. Many patients explore various solutions to address cellulite, including lifestyle changes, topical treatments, and cosmetic procedures. Among these options, liposuction often arises as a potential solution. But can liposuction truly help with cellulite?

 

Understanding Cellulite and Liposuction

Cellulite is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, and the skin’s structure. Beneath the skin, fibrous connective tissue bands tether the skin to the underlying muscle. Fat cells can accumulate between these bands, creating a dimpled or puckered appearance. While cellulite is related to fat, it is primarily a structural issue involving the skin and connective tissue.

Liposuction, on the other hand, is a surgical procedure designed to remove localized fat deposits. During the procedure, excess fat is suctioned out using a thin tube called a cannula to contour and sculpt specific areas of the body. Liposuction is highly effective at reducing fat but does not directly target the structural causes of cellulite.

 

The Effect of Liposuction on Cellulite

While liposuction can help improve the overall shape and contour of treated areas, it is not specifically intended to treat cellulite. In some cases, the procedure may slightly improve the appearance of cellulite by removing excess fat and enhancing skin smoothness. However, it is equally possible for liposuction to have minimal impact or even worsen the appearance of cellulite if skin elasticity is poor or uneven fat removal occurs.

 

Alternatives for Addressing Cellulite

For patients focused on reducing cellulite directly, specialized treatments designed to address its root causes work Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source What is the best treatment for cellulite? ASPS Go to Source best . These treatments include:

  • Cellulite-specific treatments: Avéli®, Cellfina™, and Cellulaze™ focus on breaking up the fibrous bands beneath the skin that cause the dimpled Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Cellulite treatments: What really works? American Academy of Dermatology Go to Source appearance .
  • Surgical treatment: Releasing the individual cellulite bands by using a needle placed through the skin can also improve the appearance of cellulite.
  • Non-invasive treatments: Radiofrequency, ultrasound, and laser therapy can effectively target cellulite. These treatments work by smoothing the skin’s surface and improving the structure Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source title Mayo Clinic Go to Source beneath .

 

A Holistic Approach to Body Contouring

For those considering liposuction or other procedures, consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in treating cellulite is essential to achieving lasting results. Dr. Sohn tailors every treatment plan to your unique goals, offering honest guidance on what each procedure can achieve. Whether addressing stubborn fat, cellulite, or both, we are here to help you feel confident in your body. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about your options.

Sources


1 Cleveland Clinic. Cellulite. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17694-cellulite. Accessed December 31, 2024.


2 ASPS. What is the best treatment for cellulite? https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-is-the-best-treatment-for-cellulite. Accessed December 20, 2024.


3 American Academy of Dermatology. Cellulite treatments: What really works? https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/fat-removal/cellulite-treatments-what-really-works. Accessed December 20, 2024.


4 Mayo Clinic. Cellulite. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cellulite/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354949. Accessed December 20, 2204.

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