CELLULITE TREATMENT

What is cellulite and how can it be treated?

‘Cellulite develops when you eat badly’ – this rumour is widespread. And yes, cellulite can be caused by poor nutrition. However, that’s not the only reason. It is often caused by genetics or hormones. Cellulite is a superficial, dimple-shaped skin change that usually appears on the buttocks, hips or thighs. It develops when fat cells in the subcutaneous tissue build up pressure on the tissue layer above it. This pushes the connective tissue fibres to the side and causes the skin to become wavy as the connective tissue fibres protrude upwards. The following methods can help you combat the skin change often referred to as ‘cottage cheese skin’:

Thread lifting

Similar to an anti-ageing treatment, threads placed under the skin lift and tighten the dimple-like areas affected by cellulite. Special threads made of polydioxanone (PDO) are placed under the skin with a fine needle. The result of the self-dissolving threads lasts over the long term.

Cellfina®

This method combats cellulite directly at the root by targeting the connective tissue strands that lead to the retractions. The areas to be treated are lifted through vacuum suction so that the connective tissue strands can be cut with a special technique after prior local anaesthetic. The connective tissue strands that cause the dents can be loosened with this minimally invasive procedure. However, this method is only suitable for severe cases of cellulite and is associated with seven to ten days of restrictions, such as abstinence from sports and sun exposure.

Accent Prime (radiofrequency treatment)

Thanks to the latest technology, it is possible to tighten and rejuvenate skin with the Accent Prime device. This procedure can also be used to treat cellulite. Accent Prime is targeted and safe, carries little risk and allows patients to return to work immediately – there is no downtime.

VelaShape III

This non-invasive body-shaping treatment is not only used to mould the body and reduce its circumference, but it is also great for treating cellulite.

LPG endermologie

LPG endermologie is also known as lipomassage. A special device is used in this electronic massage to smooth the skin.

Swiss CellVibe

The procedure helps against all degrees of cellulite. It uses acoustic waves that tighten the skin.

Mesotherapy

In mesotherapy, deformed areas of the body are stimulated with a handheld device using microinjections of fine needles to smooth them out.

For whom is the treatment suitable?

The treatments are suitable for all those who are annoyed by their cellulite and suffer psychologically from it. The wide range of procedures makes it possible to treat cellulite at different stages as well as on different areas of the body. Dr Duve treats adults of all ages and deals with each patient individually. Trust and open communication between doctor and patient are very important to Dr Duve and a significant part of his work.

What areas can be treated?

Generally, all muscle groups can be worked on and strengthened with StimSure®. With BTL Emsella, patients sit on a special chair. All the muscles that touch the chair are stimulated. During treatments, many patients focus on problem areas that bother them. These include:

• Buttocks
• Hips
• Thighs
• Upper arms
• Abdomen

How does the treatment work?

Before each session, patients should not apply any creams to the area to be treated. Apart from that, it is important to stop taking blood thinners around 14 days before the treatment. If you are dependent on such medication, please discuss it with your attending physician. Generally, an uncomplicated solution can be found. In a personal consultation, you will find out if your individual situation requires further measures. During this consultation, Dr Duve will explain all side effects you should expect. He will also describe the treatment as well as the follow-up treatment and the expected result. Depending on the area and personal situation as well as the applied method, the actual treatment usually takes between 30 and 120 minutes. With all methods, you can go straight home after the treatment and carry on with your usual social activities.

What should I consider after the treatment?

Skin irritation and slight redness or swelling are to be expected, but they are no cause for concern. The side effects of the procedures usually subside very quickly and do not require any further action. If possible, get some rest and take it easy for a while. However, you do not have to anticipate a prolonged absence from work, and you will not experience severe pain.

When will the result be visible?

A first result is generally visible after a few days. However, it depends a little on the selected procedure and the treated area. Your personal situation and your body also play a role. However, most people will see the result after a few weeks or less.

How much does the treatment cost?

The costs of cellulite treatment vary. The price will be presented to you in a personal consultation and tailored to your unique situation. Among other things, the following points play a role:

• the area of the body to be treated,
• the procedure used, and
• the personal situation.

What are the risks?

The risks are low – especially in the experienced hands of Dr Duve. However, a small residual risk can never be excluded. Depending on the treatment, redness, swelling and bruising are possible, but they subside quickly.