The appearance of cellulite is caused by fibrous bands of collagen, known as septae, which run between the skin and muscle and through the fat layer. These bands can become taut and pull the skin down, resulting in a dimpled appearance on the skin. Cellulite may become more pronounced in some patients if they gain weight and increased fat. It may also become more prominent over time as the skin becomes thinner with reduced elasticity due to aging. With these considerations in mind, cellulite can occur at virtually any weight or age. Cellulite is exceptionally common, with 80-90% of women experiencing it at some point in their lives.
Cellulite is very normal and not an indicator of poor health for a majority of people. However, it is also very common for patients to wish they had smoother, unblemished skin. Thankfully, treatment options are available to remove cellulite. For certain patients, reducing fat through liposuction or non-surgical treatments like EVOLVE will help to reduce cellulite. For others, the most effective treatment option will involve breaking down the collagen bands that cause the dimples in cellulite. This can be achieved using QWO injections. Finally, RF microneedling with Morpheus8 can be a good option to stimulate new collagen to reduce cellulite.
QWO works using ingredients known as collagenases. These are enzymes which target and break down fibrous collagen bands between the skin and fat layers. By releasing these fibrous bands, QWO effectively smooths skin and removes cellulite without causing harm to surrounding tissues. In addition, the treatment can redistribute fat cells and stimulate healthy collagen production for smoother and more youthful-looking skin.
QWO cellulite removal treatment is completed in a series of injection sessions; the number of sessions required will vary for each patient. No numbing agents are required for injections, and each session can be completed in as little as 10 minutes. Dr. Shienbaum will advise that you wait at least 21 days between each QWO injection session.
QWO is an approved treatment for adult women who see cellulite in the buttocks. A majority of women have some degree of cellulite regardless of their age, weight, or fitness, making QWO a beneficial treatment for a wide range of patients. Because QWO is an injectable, it is an excellent option for those who cannot afford long-term downtime.
A small number of patients may be poor candidates for QWO due to certain medical concerns. Those who have a history of severe allergic reactions or who have known allergies to collagenase should not receive QWO injections. Similarly, the treatment is not appropriate for patients with active infections or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. During a consultation, Dr. Shienbaum will review your health history to determine whether you are a good candidate and QWO is a safe and suitable option for you.
QWO cellulite removal does not require downtime. However, you will likely see some side effects including bruising, itching, swelling, or redness at the injection site. Most patients will experience some soreness as well, which should be minor and resolve quickly. Due to bruising, it is generally advised that you wait until several weeks after your final injection before any activities that would expose the treatment area, such as a beach vacation. Your results will be noticeable within 10 weeks after your final injection session.
Morpheus8 is a radiofrequency microneedling treating which can be used to reduce cellulite. The combination of radiofrequency and microneedling stimulates the body’s natural healing response, which in turn leads to increased collagen production. For many patients, improved collagen will reduce cellulite by improving the skin’s elasticity and firmness. Morpheus8 targets deeper layers of the skin than other RF microneedling devices, making it a more effective treatment option for cellulite removal. During a consultation, Dr. Shienbaum can make a recommendation for whether Morpheus8 or QWO is a better option for you.
To learn more about your cellulite removal options with QWO or Morpheus8 RF microneedling, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shienbaum at Brandon Plastic Surgery. Call our Tampa area office at (813) 359-1075 or contact us online.
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