Concern
Cellulite Treatment in Campbell
Cellulite is a common cosmetic skin condition in which the skin appears dimpled, lumpy, or uneven, most often on the thighs, buttocks, hips, and abdomen. It occurs when subcutaneous fat deposits push upward through fibrous connective tissue bands (septae) that tether the skin to underlying muscle, creating a characteristic puckered or "orange peel" texture on the skin surface. Cellulite is estimated to affect approximately 80% to 90% of postpubertal women and is considered a normal physiological variation rather than a disease.
At a Glance
- Cellulite is estimated to affect approximately 80% to 90% of postpubertal women[3]
- Cellulite forms when fibrous bands connecting skin to underlying muscle tighten irregularly, pulling skin downward while fat pushes upward[1]
- Cellulite is considered a physiological variation rather than a pathological condition and does not affect overall physical health[3]
- Subcision-based procedures have demonstrated cellulite reduction lasting up to three years in clinical studies[4]
- Hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, are believed to play a significant role in cellulite development, contributing to the higher prevalence in women[5]
Signs & symptoms
- Dimpled or lumpy skin texture on thighs, buttocks, hips, or abdomen
- Skin surface with an "orange peel" or "cottage cheese" appearance
- Uneven skin contour that may worsen when skin is pinched
- Puckering or pulling of skin in affected areas
- Textural irregularity that may be more noticeable when standing
What causes Cellulite
- Structural anatomy of fibrous septae pulling skin downward while fat lobules push upward
- Hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, which may influence fat distribution and connective tissue
- Genetic predisposition affecting skin structure, fat distribution, and metabolism
- Thinning of the dermis with age, making underlying fat deposits more visible
- Differences in connective tissue architecture between men and women
Risk factors
- Female sex (cellulite affects approximately 80% to 90% of postpubertal women)
- Family history and genetic predisposition
- Hormonal changes including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause
- Sedentary lifestyle and reduced physical activity
- Higher body fat percentage
- Age-related changes in skin elasticity and thickness
How it's assessed
- Visual examination of affected skin areas
- Assessment using the Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS) grading system
- Evaluation of skin texture when standing and when pinched
- Review of medical history and contributing factors
- Differentiation from other skin conditions or lipedema
How is Cellulite treated
Several approaches can address cellulite:
Treatment
Learn moreLaser Treatment
Laser treatment uses focused light energy to address a variety of skin concerns including scars, acne, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation,…
Treatment
Learn moreLiposuction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body using a hollow tube called a cannula…
Treatment
Learn moreAveli Cellulite Treatment
Aveli is an FDA-cleared, minimally invasive cellulite treatment that uses a handheld device to identify and release individual fibrous…
Recovery & outlook
- Cellulite is a normal physiological variation and not a health risk
- Many treatment options can reduce the appearance of cellulite, though complete elimination is generally not achievable
- Results from procedural treatments may last from several months to several years depending on the approach
- Cellulite often persists regardless of fitness level or weight; lifestyle changes do not directly treat the underlying fibrous septae that cause it
- Ongoing maintenance treatments may be needed to sustain results
Frequently Asked Questions
- Cellulite is a common cosmetic skin condition that causes a dimpled, lumpy appearance on the skin, most often on the thighs, buttocks, hips, and abdomen. It occurs when fat deposits push upward through fibrous connective tissue beneath the skin. Cellulite is very common, affecting an estimated 80% to 90% of postpubertal women.
- Cellulite typically appears as dimpled, uneven, or puckered skin, sometimes described as having an "orange peel" or "cottage cheese" texture. It is most commonly visible on the thighs and buttocks, and may be more noticeable when standing or when the skin is pinched. Severity can range from mild textural changes to more prominent dimpling.
- Cellulite is caused by the structural relationship between fat, connective tissue, and skin. Fibrous bands called septae pull the skin downward while fat pushes upward, creating the characteristic dimpled appearance. Hormones, genetics, age, and lifestyle factors all contribute to cellulite development.
- Consider seeing a dermatologist or plastic surgeon if cellulite causes you significant cosmetic concern and you are interested in professional treatment options. Seek evaluation if you notice sudden or unusual changes in skin texture, as these may indicate a different condition such as lipedema.
- Treatment options include subcision procedures that release fibrous bands beneath the skin, laser and energy-based therapies, acoustic wave therapy, and injectable treatments. Exercise and strength training do not directly treat cellulite, but they can make it look less noticeable by improving muscle tone and reducing body fat. A dermatologist can recommend the most appropriate approach based on severity and goals.
- Complete elimination of cellulite is generally not achievable, as it is a normal physiological variation rather than a disease. Many treatments can meaningfully reduce its appearance, and results from procedural treatments may last from several months to several years. Cellulite often persists regardless of fitness level, so lifestyle changes alone do not directly treat it.
- At-home approaches do not directly treat cellulite, but they can affect its appearance. Regular exercise, particularly strength training, may help cellulite look less noticeable by improving muscle tone and reducing body fat. Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet may also help. Topical products containing caffeine or retinol can temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite, though results are modest and short-lived.
Your Physicians
Dr. K. Zeidler
MD, FACS
Dr. D. Elyassnia
MD, FACS
Dr. J. Weston
MD, FACS
Dr. B. Tran
MD
Dr. S. Liu
MD, MHS
Dr. M. Koo
MD, FACS
Dr. R. Lehman
MD, FACS
Dr. J. Gillon
MD, FACS
Dr. A. Hausauer
MD, FAAD
9 board-certified physicians across 4 locations
Sources & references
This article draws on 6 sources, including peer-reviewed research, leading medical institutions.
Government & research
Medical institutions
Educational & general
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kamakshi R. Zeidler, MD, FACS · Last reviewed: 2026-06-09