Do you have cellulite? Join the club! Cellulite affects 90% of women—100% of whom agree that they hate it. This lumpy, dimpled skin appearance most often appears on the thighs and buttocks, and it is one of the reasons we women hate shopping for bathing suits. Although it’s not harmful (like the mirrors and lighting in dressing rooms!), most people find cellulite unattractive and want to try to improve its appearance with cellulite treatment.
What causes cellulite?
Cellulite is caused by fibrous tissue bands, called septae or septa, that connect the skin to deeper tissues and separate the fat cells. The dimpled appearance comes from fat cells pushing against these tough bands.
Cellulite can be made worse if your skin becomes thin or stretched out, i.e. as skin loses collagen with age. In general, cellulite is usually caused by a combination of factors, like genetics, hormonal changes, poor circulation, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.
“I love coming to this office... I walk out of this office not only glowing, but more educated on how to take care of my skin.”
— Actual Patient
Cellulite treatment options
We are still searching for a definitive cure for cellulite, but there are several options that can help improve its appearance, from home remedies to professional options offered by plastic surgeons. Some of the most effective treatments for cellulite include:
Lifestyle Adjustments
Sometimes, simple lifestyle changes can help reduce the appearance of cellulite in several areas:
Exercise
Regular exercise can help reduce the appearance of cellulite because it can improve circulation and reduce body fat. It can be helpful to focus on strength exercises that target the thighs and buttocks, such as lunges, squats, and leg lifts.
Diet
A healthy diet can help reduce the appearance of cellulite also by reducing body fat and improving circulation. Focus on a diet of whole foods that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. It is helpful to avoid processed foods, excessive sugar and salt, and alcohol.
Staying Hydrated
We all know to try to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, but it’s no joke! In addition to a ton of other benefits, proper hydration also can reduce the appearance of cellulite (and fine lines and wrinkles, too!).
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a non-invasive way to reduce the appearance of cellulite. It works by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage. This can help break down fat cells and smooth out the skin.
There are many types of massage that can be effective, including deep tissue massage, lymphatic drainage massage, and myofascial release massage. You can also try dry brushing or a foam roller, taking care to massage the thighs and buttocks. Exfoliating or wrap treatments can also improve the appearance of cellulite.
Topical Treatments
Topical skin care with active ingredients can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. These include cellulite creams and lotions that contain caffeine, retinol, or other active ingredients. These active ingredients help improve circulation and smooth the skin. Caffeine has more of a temporary tightening effect. Retinol will increase skin turnover and build collagen.
Ask our team of aesthetic experts about our favorite skin care treatments at your consultation!
Energy-Based Cellulite Treatments
Targeted laser treatment or radiofrequency microneedling can also effectively address cellulite, with the benefits of being non-invasive procedures that have little downtime. We recommend a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. At our San Diego plastic surgery practice, we often combine non-surgical treatments to maximize results—a favorite treatment is Virtue RF radiofrequency microneedling!
Targeted Cellulite Reduction Procedures
Recently, the FDA cleared a new option for treating cellulite: Avéli cellulite reduction targets the bands of septa that are the root cause of cellulite dimpling. Avéli is a handheld device that looks like a small, lighted wand, which Dr. Gallus inserts through a tiny incision. Once inserted beneath the skin, she can divide the fibrous bands and see your cellulite diminish in real time to ensure great results. This mechanical surgery to divide cellulite bands (also known as subcision) is widely considered to be the most effective way to reduce cellulite.
Dr. Gallus performs Avéli as an in-office procedure under local anesthesia, so you can return to your daily activities the next day. Afterward, you may have some minor bruising and will need to wear light compression for about a week. You will be able to enjoy your results as soon as a month later!
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Gallus is a board certified plastic surgeon and Castle Connolly Top Doctor. She will partner with you to develop a tailored surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and results.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Gallus & our awesome team
San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus and our team invite you to consult with us to determine the best course of treatment for your goals. With our help, you can improve the appearance of your skin and feel more confident in your body! Call 858-224-2281 or contact us online today to get started.
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Medically reviewed by Dr. Katerina Gallus — Updated on Feb 5, 2025
