Endermologie is a non-invasive technique for reducing the appearance of cellulite. Cellulite often shows up as dimpling on the skin, sometimes called the cottage cheese look, even in those who are fit. The look of cellulite does not necessary diminish with weight loss and liposuction fails to address this top layer of fat under the skin.
French plastic surgeons developed this techniques, but the process is now patented in the US as well. Endermologie uses rollers that often feel like deep tissue massage over problem areas of the skin. At the same time, suction is used to redistribute the skin and remove dimpling. Those opting for the treatment usually need between 14 and 28 sessions of about 45 minutes each to see results and must also have monthly treatments afterwards to maintain the smooth skin look.
Endermologie works best on candidates who are fit and who are usually between the ages of 30 to 45. Those who do not regularly exercise may see only temporary results, and those who are more than 30 pounds (13.60 kg) overweight tend not to benefit from the procedure. Beyond regular exercise, drinking water on the day of procedures helps yield a better result. Medical professionals frequently ask patients to drink eight glasses of water prior to the procedure and to maintain this habit daily afterwards.
Side effects are minimal and may involve bruising or soreness in the areas treated. Many patients like the feel of the procedure and find this temporary soreness a small price to pay. Those who are extremely sensitive to pain may find the pressure exerted by rollers very uncomfortable.
The price of endermologie, when adding up all sessions, is somewhat comparable to one session of liposuction; although individual treatments are less expensive, at least 14 are usually needed. Those needing more treatments may ultimately pay more than a single liposuction session. Proponents feel the procedure is still economically sound, and since it addresses an area that liposuction tends not to resolve, it is an excellent treatment. Since the procedure is cosmetic, it usually is not covered by health insurance.
If a person does not maintain monthly maintenance sessions, however, this procedure will not permanently reduce the dimpled effect of cellulite. The effect is temporary and must be maintained. Those who do not plan to maintain the look may waste their money on initial sessions because the cellulite, in reality, is not gone and will come back.