radiofrequency cellulite

Cellulite Skin Treatment

The term cellulite refers to the 'orange peel,’ 'mattress,' or 'dimpling' appearance on the thighs, buttocks, and sometimes lower abdomen and upper parts of the arms of otherwise healthy women. Approximately 85% of post-pubertal woman has a form of cellulite. This appearance is much more common in women than in men because of differences in how fat, muscle, and connective tissue are distributed in men's and women's skin. Although rarely observed in men, those men presenting with cellulite are commonly deficient in male hormones. The lumpiness of cellulite is caused by fat deposits that push and distort the connective tissues beneath the skin, leading to characteristic changes in the appearance of the skin. The causes of cellulite are not well understood. Theories include genetics, circulatory problems, inflammation, hormonal disturbances, tight clothing, and lifestyle factors. Although being overweight is not a prerequisite for cellulite, excess body fat makes cellulite more visible. The aging process can worsen the appearance of cellulite, as skin loses elasticity and is less able to resist irregular tension created by the fibrous bands. Despite many treatments available—all of which claim to work somehow—few do work, and many works with unpredictable results. The new minimally invasive techniques of power liposuction (without suction) and fat transfer are rewarding to achieve acceptable results.

Radiofrequency Skin Treatment

Minimally invasive tightening and lifting skin procedures give natural results with minimal risk and recovery time. Monopolar radiofrequency delivers a high-frequency electric current—tissue resistance to electrical current results in volumetric heating to the deep dermis and underlying tissue. The resulting heat leads to immediate collagen contraction and a delayed wound healing response, with new collagen formation up to 4 to 6 months post-treatment. The FDA initially approved monopolar radiofrequency (RF) devices to treat periorbital wrinkles. Since then, they have been used to treat laxity of the forehead, cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionette, lines, jawline, and neck. Although the results of RF are not as dramatic as a facelift, over 90% of patients obtain noticeable tightening of the treated areas, and it never looks “pulled.” Another benefit of radiofrequency is its ability to reduce fat and tighten the skin by directing energy to target collagen. For example, a patient with flabby upper arms may have more loose skin than fat in this area. In this instance, Prof Moawad might use radiofrequency to tighten the skin and remove excess fat. However, if he determines that there is fat in an area, he will remove the fat first and then tighten the skin afterward. “Radiofrequency is a very versatile procedure that can be used on any area of the body – from large areas like the abdomen to minimal areas like the chin – with the same degree of success.