Cellulite & Texture

We all want skin that’s smooth, supple, and firm.

Unfortunately, uneven skin texture is a common problem. One of the primary problems related to textured skin on the body is cellulite. The dimpled appearance of cellulite is often likened to cottage cheese or an orange peel.

Cellulite is extremely common among women. Up to 90% of women have cellulite, usually on the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs. Sometimes, it is only visible when you pinch the skin. Mild cellulite is usually only visible when you sit down, while more severe cases involve noticeable dimples both sitting and standing. People often associate cellulite with excess fat. However, cellulite can occur regardless of weight, often affecting healthy women with little to no excess fat.

Learn More About Cellulite & Texture

Beneath your skin are fibrous bands called septa, which connect the skin and muscles. Cellulite occurs when these connective bands pull down on the skin, creating a pucker. Fat buildup underneath the septa can worsen cellulite as the septa pull down on the skin and fat pushes up against it, creating uneven lumps. 

It’s unknown what causes these connective tissues to dimple the skin, though it may be linked to hormones. Several additional factors can contribute to cellulite. Your age, weight, genetics, and skin elasticity may contribute to cellulite. Though fat does not cause cellulite, it can worsen its appearance. Similarly, thin, aging skin will likely show dimpling more severely than healthy, firm skin. Cellulite also tends to run in families.

Cellulite isn’t harmful. However, many people don’t like the way it looks. There are a few things you can try to reduce cellulite. If fat buildup is worsening the appearance of cellulite, losing weight and toning the muscles in that area may help. Some individuals may find body sculpting treatments like CoolSculpting® helpful to target stubborn fat deposits or CoolTone® to improve muscle tone, which helps smooth out cellulite.

Topical treatments may offer mild improvements for cellulite. Creams that hydrate the skin or increase blood flow with caffeine may temporarily reduce the appearance of dimpling. Generally, healthy, elastic skin will look firmer and smoother. Topical treatments typically only have a very slight effect, however, and cannot address the septa that cause cellulite.

Dr. David Rapaport and his team at Rapaport Plastic Surgery offer effective cellulite treatments that tackle the root of the problem, not just the fat underneath or the skin on top. The only way to truly treat cellulite is to release tension in the septa. We offer two treatments to do this.

RESONIC™

RESONIC™ is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared option for reducing cellulite. It uses Rapid Acoustic Pulse (RAP) technology to emit high-frequency sound waves that disrupt the septa, releasing tension. This gentle treatment has minimal side effects and requires no downtime. Most patients need multiple sessions for optimal results.

Aveli™

During an Aveli™ treatment, your provider manually severs the septa that are causing dimples. Aveli™ is an advanced device that offers superior precision to other subcision procedures. The procedure requires only local anesthesia, involves minimal downtime, and yields visible results after just one treatment.

Take the Next Step

Every patient’s transformation journey at Rapaport Plastic Surgery begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Rapaport. To learn more about cellulite treatments and determine if it’s the right choice for you, fill out the form below or call us at (212) 249-9955 to schedule an appointment. Our team is dedicated to providing the best plastic surgery NYC has to offer.

Ready to book a consultation or treatment? Just click the Book Now button below to schedule online.