Cellulite and scars are two common cosmetic concerns that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or body type. So, it is no wonder that many of our patients seek procedures to reduce the appearance of cellulite and scars for aesthetic reasons.

Let’s explain the science behind cellulite and scars and explore popular removal procedures.

Cellulite

What is cellulite?

Cellulite refers to the dimpled appearance of the skin which might resemble an orange peel. It occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin.

Cellulite is more common in women, but it can also affect men.

Factors contributing to cellulite formation include:

• Genetics
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Poor circulation
• Lifestyle factors (diet and exercise habits)

Cellulite is not a physical health issue. However, it can be a source of insecurity and anxiety.

How to remove cellulite

The effectiveness of cellulite removal procedures varies depending on factors such as the severity of cellulite, individual skin characteristics, and your overall health.

Some common procedures used for cellulite removal include:

• Non-invasive treatments such as radiofrequency (RF) therapy, acoustic wave therapy (AWT), and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) can help reduce the appearance of cellulite by directly targeting the underlying connective tissue and fat deposits.
• Laser treatments utilise laser energy to target cellulite by releasing fibrous bands beneath the skin's surface and promoting collagen production.
• Subcision is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves using a small needle to release fibrous bands responsible for pulling down the skin and creating cellulite dimples.
• Certain massage techniques, such as lymphatic drainage massage and deep tissue massage, can help improve blood circulation, reduce fluid retention, and break down fat deposits, leading to temporary improvement in cellulite appearance.

Scars

What types of scars exist and how do they form?

When the dermis (the deeper layer of the skin) is damaged, the body produces collagen fibers to repair the wound, resulting in scar tissue. The appearance of scars can vary depending on factors such as the depth and size of the wound, skin type, and individual healing process.

There are different types of scars, including:

• Hypertrophic scars: Raised and red scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound.
• Atrophic scars: Depressed scars that result from the loss of underlying tissue, such as those caused by acne or surgery.
• Keloid scars: Thick, raised scars that extend beyond the boundaries of the original wound and may be itchy or painful.

How are scars removed?

Laser therapy and radiofrequency are also effective in reducing the visibility of scars. Microneedling, a procedure that involves creating tiny punctures in the skin with fine needles to stimulate collagen production and promote skin regeneration, may also work well.

However, for more prominent scars, surgical techniques such as scar excision or revision may be necessary to improve their appearance. These procedures involve removing the scar tissue and carefully closing the wound to minimise scarring.

Read more about how to improve skin scarring.

Cellulite and scars are common cosmetic concerns that can impact self-confidence and quality of life for many patients. Fortunately, a variety of treatment options are available to address these "imperfections", ranging from non-invasive techniques to surgical interventions.

Learn about treatments for cellulite and scars in your
FREE skin consult with our dermal clinicians!

References:
Zerini I, Sisti A, Cuomo R, et al. Cellulite treatment: a comprehensive literature review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2015;14(3):224-240. doi:10.1111/jocd.12154

Alizadeh Z, Halabchi F, Mazaheri R, Abolhasani M, Tabesh M. Review of the Mechanisms and Effects of Noninvasive Body Contouring Devices on Cellulite and Subcutaneous Fat. Int J Endocrinol Metab. 2016;14(4):e36727. Published 2016 Jul 3. doi:10.5812/ijem.36727

Petti C, Stoneburner J, McLaughlin L. Laser cellulite treatment and laser-assisted lipoplasty of the thighs and buttocks: Combined modalities for single stage contouring of the lower body. Lasers Surg Med. 2016;48(1):14-22. doi:10.1002/lsm.22437

Friedmann DP, Vick GL, Mishra V. Cellulite: a review with a focus on subcision. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:17-23. Published 2017 Jan 7. doi:10.2147/CCID.S95830

Rostom EH, Salama AB. Vodder manual lymphatic drainage technique versus Casley-Smith manual lymphatic drainage technique for cellulite after thigh liposuction. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2022;39(2):362-367. doi:10.5114/ada.2021.106042

González N, Goldberg DJ. Update on the Treatment of Scars. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(6):550-555.

Juhasz MLW, Cohen JL. Microneedling for the Treatment of Scars: An Update for Clinicians. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020;13:997-1003. Published 2020 Dec 22. doi:10.2147/CCID.S267192