Cellulite and Body Contouring
What causes Cellulite?
Cellulite is a term used to describe the pitting, bulging and deformation of the skin usually affecting the thighs, buttocks, hips, and abdomen of women. More than 80% of women above the age of 18 have cellulite, regardless of their size, weight or physical fitness. Women are more likely to have cellulite than men because men's fat cells reside deeper in the skin, while women's are closer to the surface, causing the ripples associated with cellulite.
Cellulite develops in the body when fat is deposited immediately below the dermis and contained in fat chambers that can become swollen. As the fat cells grow in size, surrounding tissue becomes compressed and hardened, making blood circulation more difficult and trapping fluids. This causes reduced elasticity of the adipose tissue, producing an undesirable tension between the layers. The resulting depression of connective tissue anchor points creates the appearance of cellulite.
How does VelaShape™ improve the appearance of Cellulite?
VelaShape is the first and only medical device with the revolutionary ELOS™ (electro–optical synergy) combined energy technology by Syneron Medical. By using Bi–Polar Radio Frequency and Infrared Light — plus tissue mobilization combined with suction, the appearance of cellulite is reduced and problem areas are re–contoured.
The VelaShape combines gentle light and radio frequency energies (ELOS™) with mechanical rollers and vacuum suction to manipulate the superficial fat tissue layer that contributes to cellulite. The heat from the light and RF energies increases metabolism of this fatty layer and shrinks the size of fat cells. The mechanical rollers and vacuum suction act on the blood vessels to increase circulation to the local area, as well as massaging the skin to achieve a smoother, less dimpled surface appearance.
In addition to a reduction in the appearance of cellulite, there is often a welcome reduction of inches. The suction acts to stretch fibrous bands that cause dimples resulting in a smoothing out of cellulite. It is effective for all skin types. The New VelaShape Contour Applicator delivers deeper, dense heating to smaller target treatment areas, such as under the chin, the bra line, upper arm, calf and "love handles" resulting in re–contouring of these areas.
What is a VelaShape™ treatment like?
You'll lie on a table for your treatment. The VelaShape handpiece is passed over the area being treated. This may be repeated a number of times. You will feel a strong massaging action of the suction and possibly some warmth as the radio frequency penetrates to the fat layer in your skin. Since this is a medical treatment for cellulite, and far beyond the ineffective spa–type procedures, there is typically some level of discomfort. VelaShape treatment may feel like a warm deep tissue massage for some patients, while it can feel uncomfortable or "pinchy" for others. The treatment settings are tailored to each patient according to individual sensitivity and gradually increased as tolerated.
How long does a VelaShape™ session last?
Session length varies depending on the size of the area to be treated, but they typically last around 30 to 60 minutes.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies for each individual, but typically a series of 16, performed twice weekly for 8 weeks, offers measurable as well as visual improvement. Each treatment generally takes about 45 minutes.
With the new smaller VelaShape Contour handpiece, you will able to reduce the number of sessions needed in smaller areas, to get great results. Treatment areas that can benefit from the VelaShape Contour handpiece include under the chin, the bra line, upper arm, calf and love handles. At Cosmetic Laser MD, most patients will utilize a package of 16 treatments, and if they reach their goal after fewer treatments, they will use the remaining treatments during the maintenance phase.
What happens after each treatment?
The treated area may appear flushed or pink from the heat for a short while, and may feel warm for several hours after treatment. Syneron's VelaShape requires no downtime. You may return to your regular activities immediately.
Is treatment with the VelaShape™ safe?
Treatment is very safe for all skin colors and can be performed even on tanned skin. There are no long–term health hazards from light.
What results can I expect from VelaShape™ treatment?
Gradual improvement of cellulite in treated areas, and a firmer and tighter skin surface is reported. Studies have shown that nearly everyone will see a noticeable improvement after an initial series of treatments. Most patients notice re–contouring of areas such as hips, thighs, saddlebags, abdomen, and love handles, which is measurable by a reduction in circumference or girth. Added benefits of treatment include improved circulation and relief from muscles aches in the treated areas. It may take 6–8 treatments to recognize the change. There is usually visible and measurable contouring of the lumps and bumps of the skin as evidenced by post–treatment photos, girth measurements, and what most patients love the most—how their clothing fits much better.
Can VelaShape™ be used in combination with Lipo/Mesotherapy?
Yes. The combination of VelaShape and Lipo/Mesotherapy—called LipoLite—enhances the reduction of cellulite and removes pockets of unwanted fat in such areas as saddlebags, love handles, thighs, hips, and abdomen.
Does VelaShape™ replace Liposuction?
No, but VelaShape is a terrific addition to liposuction. Liposuction removes fat in specific areas, and can improve the shape of your body. The problem with liposuction is that it removes the fat deep down beneath the skin but cannot get close enough to the surface to help cellulite. In fact, liposuction can actually make cellulite look worse. If you have had liposuction and have visible or more cellulite after surgery, then VelaShape might be the next step to achieve smooth and contoured skin.
Who should avoid VelaShape™?
Those with pacemakers or uncontrolled medical conditions cannot be treated. Those who are pregnant or obese are also not good candidates.
Who should get VelaShape™ treatments?
VelaShape treatments are for anyone who wants improvement of the appearance of cellulite in their thighs, hips, buttocks, abdomen, or upper arms. Contouring of unwanted bulges and disproportionate fatty areas is also a benefit of VelaShape and VelaShape Contour treatments. The effects of body contouring and reduction of girth for some patients may be enhanced by compliance to healthy lifestyle.
During your free consultation with Susan Stevens Tanne, M.D. at Cosmetic Laser MD, she will evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and develop a treatment plan customized to your needs.
