Cellulite Treatment with Celluerase®

Cellulite, or localized lipodystrophy as it is scientifically known, is a pathological condition of the skin and subcutaneous tissue characterized by impaired blood and lymphatic microcirculation, resulting in localized swelling. At the same time, shrinkage of the connective tissue septa that connect the skin to the muscle fascia is observed, leading to the appearance of depressions of varying depth.
Cellulite affects approximately 85% of women after puberty, regardless of body weight, and presents with the characteristic “orange peel” appearance.

What causes cellulite?
The exact cause of cellulite has not yet been fully clarified. It mainly affects women, and important contributing factors appear to be genetic predisposition (heredity), hormonal changes (e.g. puberty, pregnancy, menopause, use of contraceptives), obesity, poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise. These disturbances seem to affect local microcirculation, causing swelling. The swelling gradually leads to tissue hypoxia, resulting in new blood vessel formation and thickening of the connective tissue septa that link the skin to the underlying muscle fascia, followed by their contraction, which causes permanent depressions.

What is the clinical appearance of cellulite?
The appearance of cellulite resembles an “orange peel,” presenting small depressions and bulges with significant variation from area to area. In the early stages, it is visible only when the underlying muscles contract or when the skin is pinched. In more advanced stages, however, large permanent indentations are observed both in standing and lying positions.

Cellulite depressions

In which areas does it appear?
Cellulite appears mainly on the thighs and buttocks, but also on the knees, abdomen, arms, and generally wherever there is subcutaneous fat.

How is cellulite treated?
Traditional treatments aim to reduce localized swelling through massage, dietary measures, and topical application of decongestant substances—approaches that address the symptoms but not the underlying cause.
Newer injectable treatments target the pathophysiology of cellulite more directly, using substances that reduce the accumulation of iron and hemosiderin in the subcutaneous tissue, elements that appear to have a toxic effect on microcirculation and fat cell function. However, even these newer treatments do not address the problem of connective tissue septa contraction that causes the depressions.
This issue is permanently addressed by Celluerase treatment, which targets the release of the contracted septa responsible for cellulite depressions using a special micro-blade.

How is cellulite treatment with Celluerase® performed?
Celluerase cellulite treatment is a minimally invasive procedure in which a special micro-blade is used to release the contracted connective tissue septa that cause the depressions, allowing the skin surface to become smooth again. The treatment is completely painless and lasts 30–45 minutes.

First, the depressions are marked in a standing position using strong vertical lighting. Local anesthesia is then administered, followed by the release of the problematic septa so that the skin regains its natural texture. The entry points created are very small (about 1 mm) and close without the need for sutures. Immediately after treatment, pressure is applied to the area to limit bruising.

Release of contracted septa with Celluerase®

What should I expect after Celluerase® treatment?
Due to the surgical nature of the procedure, bruising is unavoidable and, depending on the treated area, may be quite extensive. The area usually shows tenderness and swelling that may last several days, along with the bruising.

Are there side effects from Celluerase® treatment?
After treatment, the area may be bruised, red, and quite sensitive. Sometimes reduced sensitivity or numbness may occur, which usually resolves after a few weeks. The bruising may lead to hyperpigmentation, especially after exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet sources (e.g. solarium). Although the micro-blade is as small as a needle, there is a possibility of a small scar, particularly in individuals prone to hypertrophic scars or keloids.

What should I pay attention to after the treatment?
After Celluerase cellulite treatment, a topical antibiotic ointment is applied for 5–7 days to prevent infection, and avoidance of sun exposure or solarium is advised for at least 15 days to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. Bruising usually subsides within 10–15 days.

How many treatments are needed and how long do the results last?
In most cases, the desired results are achieved with a single treatment. However, in cases of extensive cellulite, additional sessions may be required to treat all affected areas. When there is significant skin laxity in the area, results may be less satisfactory.
The results of Celluerase treatment are essentially permanent; however, cellulite is a progressive condition and there is always a risk of recurrence in other areas despite successful treatment.