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What Are the Dangers of Cellulite Removal?

Cellulite affects over 80 percent of women, causing a dimpling of the skin; the most common areas being hips, thighs and buttocks. According to researchers at the the Mayo Clinic, even lean women can experience cellulite, with genetics as the most common risk factor. Several methods of removing cellulite or improving the appearance of skin are used, however, most are ineffective and have unwanted side-effects. Liposuction is a procedure used to remove unwanted fat, but is not a method for removing cellulite and can even make it appear worse.

  1. Lipo Dissolve

    • Lipo Dissolve is a non-invasive method of treating cellulite. Injections are made into layers of fat and connective tissue releasing a medication that works with the body to dissolve pockets of fat. Several injections are required to achieve optimum results. Although the injections are relatively painless, there is a risk of bruising, swelling and allergic reaction. As of 2010, Lipo Dissolve was not an FDA approved method for treating cellulite and has not been thoroughly researched to determine any long-term affects on internal organs, according to Cellulite Treatment.org.

    Mesotherapy

    • Mesotherapy is a method for treating cellulite that involves injecting various FDA approved medications into the fat layers of the skin. Minor risks are associated with the procedure when performed by a certified mesosurgeon. According to Cellulite Treatment.org, these risks include a burning sensation that can last from 15 to 20 minutes, minor swelling lasting from one to five days, minor soreness, skin discoloration and a slight risk of infection. The Mayo Clinic lists other risks associated with Mesotherapay which include skin rashes and bumpy or uneven skin contours.

    Acoustic Wave Therapy

    • Acoustic Wave Therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment for cellulite which corrects connective tissue under the skin and stimulates collagen production. Pressure waves penetrate the skin and fat layers to smooth out dimples caused by cellulite. According to Cellulite Treatment.org, the only known side effect is slight bruising which occurs in less than 5 percent of patients.

    Endermologie

    • Endermologie is a painless method of treating cellulite using a hand-held massage machine which kneads the skin between rollers. Skin is stretched along with connective tissue that traps cellulite, increasing circulation and smoothing skin, thereby reducing the appearance of cellulite. Temporary bruising is the only known risk and is common with deep-tissue massage.

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