Cellulite
Dimpled, orange-peel skin on the thighs, hips or belly is extremely common, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. If it bothers you, here’s what causes it and how we can help smooth its look.
Medically reviewed by the AMW Med Spa licensed clinical team
- Best options
- Body Tightening Programs (acoustic wave therapy, RF microneedling, PRP)
- Typical plan
- A multi-session program over several weeks
- Downtime
- None to a few days of redness
- Results
- Gradual over several months
What causes cellulite?
Cellulite is the dimpled or lumpy look of skin, most often on the thighs, hips, buttocks and belly. It happens when bands of connective tissue under the skin pull down while fat pushes up, creating an uneven surface.
Most women and some men have some cellulite, at any weight. It is a normal feature of skin, not a sign of poor health. Loose or thinning skin can make it look more noticeable.
Common signs
- Dimpled skinSmall dips or dents, often on the thighs
- Orange-peel textureAn uneven, bumpy surface
- Loose, thin skinCrepey skin that makes dimpling more visible
- Uneven contourRipples on the belly or hips
Areas we treat
Thighs
- Body Tightening: Thighs
Abdomen
- Body Tightening: Abdomen
Upper arms
- Body Tightening: Arms
What causes it?
Genetics
The way your connective tissue is built, which runs in families, plays a big role.
Hormones
Estrogen affects fat and connective tissue, which is one reason cellulite is so common in women.
Aging
Skin thins and loosens with age, which can make dimpling easier to see.
Weight change
Weight gain or loss can change how cellulite looks, though it appears at any weight.
Lifestyle
Inactivity, smoking and dehydration can make skin look less smooth.
Two ways we can help
Combine acoustic wave therapy with RF microneedling and PRP to improve skin texture and firmness.
Strength training, a steady weight and good skin care can help, though no cream erases cellulite.
Compare all options side by side
| Treatment | How it works | Sessions | Downtime | Results | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Tightening Programs | Acoustic wave therapy, RF microneedling and PRP | Multi-session program; for example, 4 acoustic wave sessions plus 2 RF microneedling and PRP sessions | None after acoustic wave; redness for a few days after RF microneedling | Gradual over several months | From $1,799 |
Your typical plan
- ConsultationYour provider looks at your skin, the areas that bother you and your goals, and gives you a written plan with the total price.
- Treatment programBody programs combine several acoustic wave sessions with RF microneedling and PRP, spread out over several weeks.
- Results buildSkin tends to look smoother and firmer gradually over several months. Results vary.
- MaintainCellulite can return over time, so many people plan occasional maintenance sessions.
An honest note: Treatments can improve the look of cellulite, but they don’t remove it for good, and results vary from person to person. Expect a smoother look, not perfectly smooth skin. If one leg is suddenly swollen, red or painful, see a doctor right away. Fat on the legs that is painful, bruises easily and doesn’t change with diet or exercise can be a medical condition called lipedema, which should be evaluated by a doctor.
Frequently asked
Still unsure? Call us and we’ll talk it through.
What causes cellulite?
Cellulite forms when bands of connective tissue under the skin pull down while fat pushes up, creating dimples. Genetics, hormones, aging and skin thickness all play a role. It is very common and appears at any weight.
Can cellulite be removed?
No treatment removes cellulite for good. Our body programs aim to improve how it looks by smoothing and firming the skin. Results vary, and maintenance helps keep them.
What is acoustic wave therapy?
Acoustic wave therapy (AWT) sends sound-wave pulses into the skin and tissue underneath. It is used to improve the look of cellulite and skin texture. Most people describe it as a tapping feeling, and there is usually no downtime.
How many sessions will I need?
Body programs are multi-session. For example, the arm, abdomen and thigh programs each include 4 acoustic wave sessions plus 2 RF microneedling and PRP sessions. Your provider confirms the plan and total price before you start.
Is there downtime?
There is usually no downtime after acoustic wave sessions. After RF microneedling, expect redness and some tenderness for a few days. Most people go back to work the same day or the next.
Will losing weight get rid of cellulite?
Not always. Weight loss can make cellulite look better for some people and more noticeable for others, especially if skin becomes looser. Strength training and a steady weight tend to help the most.
When will I see results?
Changes are gradual and usually build over several months as your skin firms. Your provider may take photos to track progress.
Who shouldn’t have these treatments?
Some body treatments aren’t suitable during pregnancy, over areas with infection or open wounds, with certain blood or clotting disorders, some implants, or some medications. Your provider reviews your health history before recommending anything.
Start with a consultation.
Your provider assesses your skin and goals and gives you a written plan with the total price before anything is booked.