Cellulite Reduction Myths vs. Reality: Debunking Common Misconceptions

Cellulite is a pesky problem that many people want to eliminate. Though most commonly found in women as they age, cellulite can affect anyone, regardless of weight, gender, fitness level, or age. Despite the many creams and lotions on the market, cellulite is a complex issue requiring more than a quick fix. At NuBody Concepts, we understand cellulite’s impact on your confidence and are here to help. Our advanced cellulite reduction treatments offer lasting results to help you feel great in your skin again.

Let’s take a look at some of the common myths about cellulite reduction. Discover how the board-certified plastic surgeons and expert staff at NuBody Concepts can help you achieve smoother, firmer skin.

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is the dimpled, lumpy texture that often appears on the thighs, hips, buttocks, and abdomen. It affects up to 90% of women and 10% of men, making it an incredibly common concern. Cellulite forms when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin, causing an uneven appearance. Although not harmful, cellulite can be difficult to address, especially since it often persists despite exercise and a healthy diet.

Common Myths About Cellulite Reduction

Let’s address some common misconceptions about cellulite reduction and illuminate what works.

Myth: Cellulite Only Affects Overweight People

Reality: Cellulite can impact anyone, regardless of weight or body type. It’s more about the distribution of fat, muscle, and connective tissue in the body rather than just body fat percentage.

Myth: Topical Creams Can Eliminate Cellulite

Reality: While some creams claim to reduce cellulite, their effects are often short-term and superficial. According to Dr. Mark Peters, a board-certified plastic surgeon at NuBody Concepts, no topical product or home remedy has been scientifically proven to improve the appearance of cellulite for an extended period. However, creams may temporarily enhance skin texture.

Myth: Exercise Alone Can Get Rid of Cellulite

Reality: Exercise contributes to overall health and can help reduce the appearance of cellulite by toning muscles and reducing body fat. However, exercise alone is usually insufficient to eliminate cellulite as it doesn’t address the underlying structural issues. Combining exercise and cellulite reduction treatments can improve appearance, although complete eradication of cellulite may not be achievable.

Myth: Cellulite Reduction Surgery Is Only for Severe Cases

Reality: Cellulite reduction surgery isn’t solely for severe cases. Many individuals seek treatment to improve mild to moderate cellulite that persists despite diet and exercise. At NuBody Concepts, our cellulite reduction treatments are tailored to address varying degrees of cellulite, whether mild dimpling or something more pronounced.

Science-Backed Treatments for Cellulite Reduction

When it comes to effective cellulite reduction, it’s important to choose treatments backed by science rather than hype. At NuBody Concepts, we offer several advanced options to help you achieve smoother, firmer skin.

BodyTite: A breakthrough in cellulite reduction therapy, BodyTite uses radiofrequency energy to target the laxity of tissues causing the appearance of cellulite. According to Dr. Peters in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, “BodyTite is a single radio frequency treatment that targets the laxity of the tissues causing the cellulite.” By heating the tissues beneath the skin, BodyTite helps to tighten and reshape areas affected by cellulite, offering results that topical treatments can’t match.
Renuvion: Similar to BodyTite, Renuvion, an RFAL (radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis) tool, is used at our Nashville NuBody Concepts location. Both methods address the skin laxity that is often blamed for the appearance of cellulite-type skin but is essentially the result of aging and/or substantial weight loss. The choice between the two technologies depends on the surgeon’s preference.
Non-Invasive Skin Tightening: Both BodyTite and Renuvion are minimally invasive procedures. There are also non-invasive options available. These treatments are ideal for patients with minor skin sagging who prefer a non-invasive alternative with zero downtime. Typically administered by an aesthetician, the treatment is applied only to the skin surface. For optimal results, we recommend a total of three treatments. Our advanced technologies include Exilis and Morpheus/ThermiSmooth
Minimally Invasive Liposuction: For those seeking body contouring and cellulite reduction simultaneously, minimally invasive liposuction can be an excellent option. This procedure offers a more contoured appearance by removing fat deposits and smoothing the overlying skin.
Other Options: At NuBody Concepts, we offer a variety of customizable cellulite reduction treatments to suit your needs and goals. Our expert team will guide you through the process, ensuring you choose the best approach for optimal results.

What Can I Expect From Cellulite Treatments?

If you have mild skin laxity and are not considering fat removal, a non-invasive treatment such as Morpheus or Exilis could be suitable; the process lasts about an hour with no recovery time.

For age-related skin laxity and fat deposits causing dimpled skin, your surgeon may recommend a radio frequency-assisted treatment using BodyTite’s bipolar radio frequency technology or Renuvion’s helium plasma technology. These treatments have been proven to effectively smooth out uneven skin without surgery. The procedure involves first performing liposuction to remove excess fat and then tightening the skin using the same small incisions to insert the wand for skin tightening. These procedures typically take two to four hours and require three to five days of recovery.

The Truth About Cellulite Treatments

“The appearance of cellulite is nearly impossible to eliminate completely,” Dr. Peters says. “Since cellulite is caused by multiple physiologic and anatomic factors, a wide variety of treatments are used, but most fail to address the root cause of cellulite.”

While we can significantly improve the appearance of cellulite with advanced treatments, it’s important to manage expectations. Dr. Peters notes, “It is also important that patients understand that none of these treatments produce permanent results.” Maintenance treatments may be necessary to sustain the improvements.

As stubborn as cellulite can be, you do not have to continue to struggle with your appearance. Cellulite reduction treatments can help you achieve the smooth, contoured appearance you desire. At NuBody Concepts, we provide advanced treatments targeting the root causes of cellulite. Our procedures and expert staff deliver tangible, noticeable results you can see and feel.

Tackle Cellulite With the Pros

Say goodbye to letting cellulite affect your confidence. At NuBody Concepts, we are dedicated to helping you reach your body goals with personalized, effective solutions. Eager to take the next step? Call for a consultation today to explore our cellulite reduction options. You can also take a look at our before-and-after photos. Together, we can help you feel and look your best.