Enrich Clinic

Category: Cellulite Options

  • Let’s talk cellulite

    Let’s talk cellulite

    Cellulite is one of the most common cosmetic complaints but one of the hardest to treat and keep at bay effectively. Lets be real. You can never entirely eliminate cellulite. You can only minimise, sometimes significantly, the appearance.

    Dimpled skin casts shadows and creates the look of cellulite. Cellulite appears only in certain areas (thighs, buttocks) due to how fat cells are spaced out: fat is set into columns of fibrous tissue. Imagine city skyscrapers. 

    Even with a solid exercise regime and eating well, cellulite can persist. Low body fat doesn’t necessarily mean escaping cellulite either, as you can get ‘skinny cellulite’. 

    What causes cellulite? 

    To understand how we treat cellulite, it can help to understand what causes cellulite. 

    Cellulite appears when the fibrous connective tissues in the buttocks and legs stiffen and contract, resulting in the fatty tissue these columns contain bulging out. 

    Once these connective tissues stiffen, they contribute to inhibiting lymphatic drainage, which contributes to the swollen and lumpy appearance of the skin. 

    Contributing causes of cellulite include:

    • Advancing age (more rigid collagen fibres, skin laxity)
    • Increases in hormones such as oestrogen and insulin (increased stubborn fat storage)
    • Genetic factors
    • High carbohydrate diets (excess fat accumulation)
    • Smoking (inhibits blood flow)
    • Lack of exercise (poor muscle tone, inhibits the flow of lymph)
    • Sedentary lifestyle (inhibits the flow of lymph)

    Ultimately anything that contributes to fluid retention and fat storage will also affect the appearance of cellulite. But, don’t underestimate genetics; you might have inherited more than you bargained for from your mum. 

    We know that cellulite is not entirely dependent on a person’s weight. ‘Skinny cellulite’ will still occur if genes permit and a person has an unhealthy lifestyle. 

    How to treat cellulite in legs, arms, buttocks and abdomen 

    While there is no long-lasting treatment for cellulite, we offer targeted treatments that aim to smooth skin by reducing lumps, bumps and surface irregularities caused by fat distribution and storage. 

    Our cellulite reduction treatments target cellulite-prone areas with combination treatments, including the Slimspec, aiming to increase fluid movement, soften fibrous columns and tighten skin. 

    We offer a combination of wave therapy, diode treatments and skin-tightening that provide noticeable results. Repeat treatments are required.

    Treating cellulite effectively is dependent upon the individual patient. We make a thorough assessment and decide which cellulite reduction treatments will work best for you while also offering advice for maintaining your results between treatments. 

    Treating cellulite means understanding the interplay between the distribution of fatty deposits and skin laxity. Our CelluFix combination program includes treatments that stimulate the loosening of fibrous tissue and promote skin tightening – the key to help smoothing cellulite.

     Some common treatment combinations include:

    • Slimspec and diode combination.
    • Secret RF and Slimspec combination
    • Ultraformer and Slimspec combination
    • Venus and Slimspec combination

    Slimspec uses acoustic wave therapy to target the fibrous septae and fatty accumulations. Once we’ve stimulated connective tissues, metabolic activity and blood flow increase, assisting lymphatic drainage. The treatment also increases collagen production, which promotes skin-tightening and diminishes the appearance of cellulite. 

    At ENRICH in Melbourne, we use the Secret, a high-tech micro-needling skin-tightening radiofrequency device. Micro-needling and radiofrequency increase collagen and elastin production to firm the treatment area while improving fluid clearance. 

    The Venus Freeze reduces fat and stimulates the production of collagen, which over time tightens and firms skin. 

    Benefits of cellulite treatments 

    • Minimal downtime
    • Comfortable treatments
    • Longer-lasting results when following an at-home maintenance program between treatments

    Tips for longer-lasting results

    While our acoustic wave therapies and radiofrequency treatments produce excellent results, at ENRICH in Melbourne, we also recommend an in-home management program to maintain your results. 

    Home-care tips include:

    • Stay hydrated. Hydration is important to promote smooth, supple skin and keep your digestive and lymphatic systems moving.
    • Eat well. A diet high in carbohydrates, fat, salt, sugar and preservatives can promote retention of fluid, which can exacerbate cellulite
    • Lose weight. Not always as simple as it sounds, of course, but once you invest in cellulite treatments, even losing a little weight is worth it to achieve longevity in your treatment results
    • Weight training. Anything that stimulates blood flow and lymph movement, while promoting muscle size and shape, is ideal, such as squats and lunges

    Contact us for cellulite treatments that get results. 

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Can cellulite go away on its own?

    Can cellulite go away on its own?

    Cellulite is the result of some complex body stuff going on, and while it might seem unsightly, it’s just the way fat looks on our bodies.  Let’s be clear –  you cannot totally remove cellulite. You can find ways to help the look of cellulite, and success definitely depends on each individual and their reaction to treatments.

    Packing fat

    Fat packs into columns. Think of a city’s tall buildings; each tall building is a column that runs from the skin to the muscle, and the walls of the columns are the fibrous tissue that holds the fat in the column.

    If you were to look down on this city, you would see the fat bulging out the top of the tall buildings. This bulge out the top is what you see when you look at your cellulite.

    This process is normal. There is nothing strange going on here and nothing you could do differently to make fat be stored any other way. It’s how your body works.

    Nothing much in, nothing much out

    One of the characteristics of the fat stored in cellulite-prone areas is that there isn’t a great deal of blood flow or fluid movement in and out of the cells.

    This low-energy environment is how fat lives out its life; it doesn’t need much to survive, not much blood or nutrients, so it sits all flaccid and useless, like containers at the dock. cellulite infographic

    How we interrupt and modulate your fat spectators to reduce the appearance of cellulite

    • We can loosen the fibrous columns that surround the fat columns, relaxing them to smooth out the bulge. This action is the equivalent of loosening your belt.
    • Increase the movement of fluid in and out of the area by stimulating the metabolic activity in the area.
    • Increase blood flow to the area, to help stimulate metabolic activity and get things moving.

    We do these tasks using a few different high-tech devices here at ENRICH Clinic.

    We can improve the look of cellulite

    You can never ‘get rid’ of cellulite because it’s just your body doing its thing, but you can smooth out the bumps. Depending on how bumpy your cellulite is (and the results always vary between patients) we can certainly make a dent in it (so to speak).

    Our favourite cellulite-smoothing treatments are: 

    Slimspec acoustic wave therapy for cellulite

    The Slimspec device is designed to achieve a gradual, visible smoothing of the skin’s surface. We often use the Slimspec with other body-contouring procedures to maximise anti-cellulite results.

    The Slimspec uses acoustic (sound) waves to stimulate metabolic activity in the treatment area and soften the tight, fibrous columns. Fluid movement in and out of the area increases, reducing the bulging appearance of trapped lymph fluid. This fluid movement increases drainage and release of fluids and toxins that fat cells retain while increasing oxygen supply.

    The Slimspec also increases the production of collagen and elastin fibres, which provides flexible support for the area.

    Ultraformer

    We use the Ultraformer to target cellulite. The Ultraformer is a high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment that works to tighten skin, reduce fat deposits and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

    The Ultraformer uses ultrasonic waves to stimulate collagen and elastin, which in turn tones the skin and underlying tissue.

    Tursculpt or liposuction

    Directly removing fat deposits often results in the tightening and toning of cellulite-prone areas. If the main issue is simply excess fat, bulging columns, we can smooth out the surface of the skin with targeted fat removal.

    Truscuplt is , nTruSculpt® iD tackles fat reduction, muscle toning and epidermal heating.  The device uses innovative monopolar radiofrequency (RF) technology to target fat selectively and therapeutically heat it until fat cells are slowly removed and excreted through the body naturally. Trusculpt requires, in most cases,  at least two treatments for results to be revealed.

    Liposuction,  a lasting fat removal treatment, uses targeted suction to remove fat from the body in a single treatment for precision body contouring.

    Tumescent liposuction is the gold standard in fat cell removal, and Dr Micheal Rich has performed this surgery for over 30 years and trained in this technique under Dr Jeffery Klein, the inventor of the tumescent technique.

    Tumescent liposuction is performed under local anaesthesia, reducing both blood loss and recovery time significantly.

    The Secret RF and micro-needling

    If a cellulite-prone area is very dimpled, we may use the Secret radiofrequency and micro-needling device to smooth cellulite. The micro-needling breaks down tight, fibrous bonds, relaxing the treatment area and causing smoothing, while the radiofrequency energy uses heat to soften and remodel the collagen in the fibrous columns.

    We use the Secret for remodelling scar tissue using this process, and it’s very effective for loosening off any tight fibrous tissue across the body or face. The Secret is not for newbies.

    The Glow Gun

    The Glow Gun can help create a more even appearance if there are irregularities on the skin’s surface. The Glow Gun uses absorbable dermal filler to fill hollowed or dimpled problem areas.

    The dermal filler we use is a molecule that absorbs a thousand times its weight in water, so the treated area is plumped out, eradicating the shadows caused by dimples.

    How many cellulite treatments will I need?

    Cellulite management is an ongoing process because your body will continue to do what it does best: store fat in tight, fibrous columns. It will also depend on where the cellulite is and how far it spans across the body. Everyone is different.

    You may also need a combination of treatments to gain the best results. Remember, we can’t eradicate cellulite entirely, as your body is continually changing and cellulite is part of it “doing its thing”, but we can help smooth and reduce the look of it.

    We can help with your cellulite.
    Contact us

    ENRICH Clinic

  • Why two skin treatments can offer 3X the result

    Why two skin treatments can offer 3X the result

    Combining skin treatments may seem like double the effort, but it could offer triple the benefit. There is no single ‘best’ treatment when it comes to your skin. Often a few excellent procedures combine that offer, together, even better results than you’d see with just one treatment alone.

    If you are concerned about signs of ageing (wrinkles, blemishes, brown spots or sallow cheeks), you aren’t going to find one single best treatment. A laser may work well on your skin tone, while an anti-wrinkle injection may be useful to stave off a deep wrinkle.

    Age and sunspots are treated with a laser, chemical peel or another light-based treatment, while sallow cheeks can also be treated with hydration increasing treatments.

    Finding treatments that complement one another is key to getting the 1 + 1 = 3 effect. We love combining treatments because the results can often be three times more effective!

    Ageing is a complicated process

    There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to how your face is going to age or what concerns you the most. There is an intricate pattern of wrinkles, some that stay static (like a frown line) and those that appear on flatter surfaces of the skin (think forehead and cheeks).

    We lose facial volume, which in turn results in new folds and contours appearing over time. Blood vessels can also become more prominent.

    The multifaceted process of ageing, therefore, is best served with a combination cosmetic approach.

    Treatments that work well in combination

    Needling, lasers, intense pulsed light (IPL), microdermabrasion, chemical peels, hydration treatments and high-quality skincare products can all be used together in various combinations for positve cosmetic outcomes.

    We use these combos a lot at ENRICH Clinic, where Dr Michael Rich is a great proponent of the multi-treatment approach. The treatments can often be performed in one appointment but may be scheduled over several appointments where necessary.

    Classic treatment combos

    • Laser and radiofrequency
    • Hydration and wrinkle reducing treatments
    • Acne medication and topical acne or acne scarring treatments
    • Skin needling (The Secret) and chemical peels
    • Peels & Diodes
    • Ultraformer (HIFU) and lasers

    What is the best cosmetic treatment combination?

    The best cosmetic treatment combination for you depends on your skin concerns. Talk to your cosmetic dermatologist or doctor to see what their thoughts are. Consultations are the key as well as developing a long-term plan for your skin health, and also handy for budgeting!  Combination treatments can be different for everyone and depends on ou skin type, age, diet, gender and genetics.

    A break between treatments may be necessary, so your skin can do its thing

    Some procedures are, by necessity, performed away from others. For example, a robust collagen-boosting treatment requires at least a month, if not more, to reach its maximum potential. There’s not much point in doing more collagen-boosting treatments over the top. Your skin is already maxing itself out. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t do wrinkle-reducing treatment or even a pampering, ultra-hydrating facial.

    Other treatments require a break due to the way they function in the skin. For example, certain needle-based treatments need time to settle before other skin treatments go over the top. This timing is in place because the liquid can migrate, or the skin has been pierced so you have to be careful of infection for at least 24 hours — also, no facial massage after any kind of needling.

    Swelling from some treatments may impede the effect of others, so a break for healing may be useful for the best outcomes for some combined treatments. You don’t have to have them done in the same appointment for the combination treatment effect to come into play.

    Using lasers and other wave-based treatments in combination

    Some cosmetic devices are designed to penetrate more deeply than others, which is why we may utilise the powers of two or more wave-based devices as a combination treatment.

    One such combination may be a radiofrequency device, which penetrates deeper layers, with a laser that works on the skin’s surface. This way, skin gets a deep treatment that stimulates, tightens and strengthens as well as undergoes a smoothing, brightening, resurfacing treatment. Here’s a paper on a study that reviewed how certain combination treatments can be effective.

    Your cosmetic doctor knows the best combination of treatments. 

    If you’re not sure what you need, don’t worry! We do. Come in for a consultation, and we’ll help you figure out the best course of action for your skin.

     

    Let us get the most out of your skin.
    Contact us for an appointment

    ENRICH Clinic

  • HIFU and the Ultraformer – are they the same?

    HIFU and the Ultraformer – are they the same?

    HIFU – high intensity focused ultrasound – is a newer, non-surgical method of lifting facial tissue. HIFU is the technology that underpins the Ultraformer: HIFU and the Ultraformer are the same, with the Ultraformer being a high-performing brand of HIFU machine.

    The Ultraformer is one of the more advanced treatment devices in its class, which is why we use it at ENRICH over other, lower-energy machines. The Ultraformer targets three different layers under the skin, while other machines may only target one. This means with the Ultraformer, you need fewer treatments for better results.

    HIFU is used for skin tightening and fat-removal, with visible improvements at their best about three months post-treatment. The treatments take this long to show results, since collagen production takes about this long, as does the natural removal of damaged fat cells.

    According to research, the areas that best respond to HIFU treatments are the jawline, around the mouth, and cheeks. Positive effects include improvements in skin tone, facial contour and skin tightness. HIFU can be used in conjunction with other cosmetic treatments like anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.

    Read more about our HIFU and Ultraformer treatments and make an appointment

    What is a HIFU treatment best for?

    • Lifts and firms the jawline/jowls and cheeks
    • Reduces/softens nasolabial folds
    • Tightens neck area
    • Stimulates skin’s natural healing process
    • Improves skin tone
    • Improves skin elasticity
    • Improves the appearance of crepey skin
    • Reduce the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, and loose skin
    • Improves the appearance of cellulite

    What is a HIFU treatment?

    HIFU uses high-intensity ultrasonic waves to exert an effect on underlying cells, without damaging the outer layer of skin or other nearby tissue. Ultrasound is an anti-ageing and fat-removal treatment, with the first demonstration of ultrasound’s powers on facial tissue seen in 2008. Is commonly used as a facial rejuvenation tool to lift, tighten and smooth skin and for body contouring.

    HIFU causes microdamage to cells deeper in tissue, which triggers the production and contraction of collagen. This is known as collagen remodelling. Muscles can start to loosen and sag over time – HIFU works to tighten loose muscle too, for the overall tightening effect.

    HIFU can be applied anywhere on the body, and works well for cellulite, loose skin after weight loss, and facial rejuvenation.

    Like science? Read more about how HIFU works from the researchers themselves.

    What a HIFU facial treatment looks like

    Your face will be cleansed, and if required for your treatment, an anaesthetic applied if required. An ultrasound gel will be applied to the face, enhancing the device’s action, while allowing smooth gliding over skin. The treatment is then applied with care and precision to the desired areas.

    The HIFU treatments start off with a pinprick heating sensation, like a sweat prickle. Some discomfort may be experienced as the ultrasound energy is delivered to your deeper tissue layers, but this is temporary. We will advise you of any pain relief you may require to alleviate discomfort.

    After your treatments, there may be some slight swelling, redness or tenderness, which is due to the effect of the treatment and means it’s working. The treatment triggers a healing response in your body, producing a temporary inflammatory response in tissue. This effect should last no longer than 24-48 hours.

    You can expect to put aside an hour for a full facial treatment plus another half an hour for consents and pre-discussion & post-treatment instructions.

    Results of Ultraformer and HIFU treatments – what to expect

    You will immediately notice tighter skin, since collagen fibres are contracted via heat during the treatment. The results take about three months to fully appear, since collagen must be produced and this takes time. Because we continue to age normally, HIFU and Ultraformer results don’t last past a year, so repeat treatments are applied as needed.

    You don’t need to do anything differently after treatment – you can wear make-up, exercise, and go about your normal day. We always recommend using a high-protection sunscreen to protect your face from sun damage, particularly after any skin treatment.

    Ultraformer and HIFU treatments are best suited to:

    • Those seeking anti-ageing solutions for the face or body
    • Anyone wanting a non-surgical facelift or skin tightening
    • HIFU and Ultraformer treatments will not be performed on anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding

    Benefits of HIFU treatments

    • HIFU is non-invasive and non-surgical
    • No downtime (some mild swelling or tenderness may occur in some cases)
    • Gentle but powerful
    • Safe
    • Customised treatments
    • Skin tightening via deep layers of tissue
    • Three different settings for different skin depths
    • Anyone can benefit from HIFU or Ultraformer treatments
    • Usually only one treatment required at a time, however this depends on individual needs

    HIFU therapy for the face at ENRICH

    There are many benefits of HIFU therapy for the face, with the main outcome being skin tightening and an improvement in skin quality. This tightening starts in the deep layers of collagen, with this reflected in the outer facial skin.

    HIFU therapy for the face is useful for sagging jowls around the eyes, neck, chest, and arms. HIFU treatments can help delay further signs of ageing while also maintaining results with repeat treatments six-monthly to annually.

    We have the Ultraformer and offer non-surgical skin tightening.
    Contact our friendly clinic staff for an appointment