The Skinny
Average Recovery
2 weeks
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Minor Surgical Procedure
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$3500 - $6500
The Specifics
What is Cellfina®?
Cellfina® is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reduce the appearance of cellulite of the hips, buttocks, and thighs. For cellulite that is refractory to exercise and diet, a Cellfina® procedure can be used to precisely cut and release the fibrous bands and connective tissue in subcutaneous fat that pull on the skin leading to the bulging appearance of cellulite.The Anatomy of Cellulite
By releasing the downward forces, skin is smoothed and areas of fat become significantly less pronounced. Cellfina® treatments last up to three years in contrast to Cellulaze procedures which are less long lasting.
What cosmetic concerns does Cellfina® treat?
1. Cellulite: Cellfina® uses a small blade to cut and release fibrous bands beneath the skin that contribute to the appearance of dimpling and cellulite from excess fat cells.Who is the ideal candidate for Cellfina®?
The ideal candidate for a Cellfina® procedure is in generally good health and would like to reduce cellulite in the buttocks and backs of the thighs. Cellfina® is not recommended for those who are at an unstable weight, those who would medically benefit from weight loss, or those seeking to address loose skin concerns.What is the average recovery associated with a Cellfina® treatment?
Most patients experience minimal downtime following a Cellfina® procedure. Work and exercise may be resumed within one to two days as tolerated. A compression garment is advised for the first two to four weeks. Bruising and swelling may last up to two weeks.What are the potential side effects of Cellfina®?
Possible side effects following a Cellfina® procedure include pain, soreness, bruising, infection, and tenderness.What can someone expect from the results of Cellfina®?
The results of a Cellfina® procedure are visible within as little as three days of the treatment, however, it can take up to three months for the final results to become visible. The results of Cellfina® may last up to three years.What is the average cost of a Cellfina® procedure?
Cellfina® can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $6,500. The actual cost of Cellfina® is dependent upon location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.Pros
- Long Lasting
- Minimally Invasive
- Fast Healing
Cons
- Small Areas
- Doesn't Treat Loose Skin
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Cellfina reduces the dimpling caused by cellulite by using a tiny blade to cut and release fibrous bands that pull down the skin. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after Cellfina treatment.
Before Treatment
No special measures need to be taken before a Cellfina treatment.
During Treatment
- Cellulite dimpling marked prior to procedure
- Local anesthetic administered
- Cellfina disk placed over a dimple
- Disk will suction skin to stabilize the area
- Motorized blade is inserted and moved back and forth to cut fibrous bands
- Blade is removed, suction released, and disk repositioned on next dimple
- Incisions will not require stitches
- Once complete, area will be bandaged for compression and healing
Immediately After Treatment
- Bruising and swelling
- Minor discomfort
1-7 Days After Treatment and Beyond
- Return to work after 1-2 days
- Resume exercise as tolerated
- Bruising and swelling up to 2 weeks
- Wear compression garment for 2-4 weeks
Result Notes
- Results last up to 3 years
- Noticeable results in as soon as 3 days
- Final results may take 3 months to see
The Takeaway
Cellfina® is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of cellulite that releases fat cells from connective tissue for cellulite reduction and body contouring.
