The term cellulite is used to describe a cosmetic defect that occurs in 85-90% of post-adolescent American women. Cellulite usually appears on women's' hips, thighs and buttocks (men rarely
get cellulite). The unsightly dimples and orange peel skin characteristic of cellulite is believed to be caused by a
swelling of fat cells and a contraction of the supporting connective tissue. Studies suggest the condition is secondary to an imbalance between the function of hormones, blood supply,
adipocytes, interstitial fluid, lymph system and connective tissue.
Envision the cellulite as the surface of a hot-air balloon. As the balloon is gradually filled with air, it
begins to dimple when the ropes pull down on the balloon. Cellulite functions in the same manner, as
the adipose tissue distends into the connective tissue the "mattress phenomenon", pitting, bulging and deformation of the skin prevails.Traditionally, methods to treat cellulite have included, diet, exercise, deep massages and an
assortment of topical ointments and creams. Today, science is advancing, several new treatment options have offered hope in the reduction of cellulite:
Cellasene is a new promising dietary supplement that helps eliminate cellulite. The ingredients in
Cellasene act singularly and in concert to improve capillary circulation, inhibit collagen breakdown and
support healthy subdermal connective tissue. Cellasene is the first dietary supplement for the
treatment of cellulite with clinical studies to support the supplement's effectiveness. Cellasene has a
retail price of $51.00 for a box of 30 capsules. However, ONLINEPILLS.COM can offer individuals a substantial savings by ordering online. Endermologie/Silhouette is a new FDA approved nonsurgical device that uses rollers and gentile
suction to deep massage the affected areas in a way that cannot be duplicated otherwise. Circulation
is increased, collagen function is restored, toxic and abnormal water buildup is expelled as the
connective fibers are stretched. The result is a temporary smooth and more contoured body.
Endermologie is not inexpensive. Treatments range form $1400-$1600 for an initial series of 14-16 weekly treatments, then $60-$80 per session for monthly follow up treatments. The Tumescent technique for Liposuction by local anesthesia represents a significant improvement in
liposuction surgery. Patients no longer require intravenous sedation, narcotics or general anesthesia.
The tumescent technique uses large volumes of dilute solution of lidocaine (local anesthetic), in combination with epinephrine (constricts the capillaries) and triamcinolone (anti-inflammatory
medication). The tumescent technique dramatically reduces both the bleeding during surgery and
postoperative bruising and swelling compared to liposuction under general anesthesia. After surgery,
most patients may walk out of the office without assistance. Patients are usually back to their regular
routine in a couple days. Additionally, postoperative discomfort is significantly reduced, since the local
anesthesia remains in the treated tissue for up to sixteen hours following surgery. Although the results
of liposuction may be quite dramatic, it is unrealistic to expect perfection. Liposuction vastly improves the silhouette; the surgery does not necessarily remove all of the cellulite.
Liposuction is also associated, as with any surgery, with certain side effects including swelling, bruising and
numbness. Although irregularities of the skin are possible following liposuction, this side effect is minimized
by the tumescent technique. Individuals should realize that all surgeries have the potential for serious
complications, such as infections, blood clots, allergic reactions etc. However, most complications with
surgery are related to the type of anesthesia used. The tumescent technique uses primarily local anesthesia
that represents the safest form of anesthesia. Liposuction can be quite expensive ranging from $2000 - and up depending on the procedure. |
