Cellulite is a common and harmless skin condition marked by a dimpling or puckered effect, most frequently occurring on the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs. (1) Often misunderstood, cellulite is a dermatologic condition caused by a disruption in the fibrous, connective layers around fat, not the fat itself. It is largely unknown why cellulite develops, but it is a structural issue, not weight-related.
While liposuction is a popular and highly effective fat-sculpting technique, it does not address the underlying structural issues that cause cellulite, and is therefore not an effective treatment for the condition.
For patients seeking premium care from experts in the field of plastic surgery, Dr. Michael Zarrabi and his team at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery provide a clear and comprehensive explanation about cellulite and the best ways to treat the condition. A board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Zarrabi is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to all of his patients. With an expert level of understanding of what various plastic surgery procedures can achieve, Dr. Zarrabi will work with you to find the right treatment plan to address your concerns. If you want personalized recommendations or want to learn which cellulite treatments will benefit you, contact Zarrabi Plastic Surgery online or call (310) 584-9990 to arrange a personal consultation.
About Cellulite
Cellulite occurs when the connective tissue bands, or septae, beneath the skin and surrounding fat layers pull and push in opposing directions, thus creating a rippled or dimpling effect. Certain genetic differences make this condition more common in female patients than male patients. (2) The septae are distinct from the fat they surround, and they will resist weight loss, fat removal, or body sculpting techniques.
While there is no definitive underlying cause of cellulite, certain factors such as genetics, hormones, and skin quality can influence its presence. Cellulite does not discriminate; it can affect lean, athletic bodies just the same as individuals with higher body fat. Reduction or removal of fat does not correct the underlying causes of cellulite, so liposuction is an ineffective method of eradicating it.
About Liposuction
Liposuction is one of the most performed cosmetic surgeries globally, popular for its ability to remove pesky or unwanted fat deposits and contour a more aesthetically desired body profile. (3) Dr. Zarrabi performs liposuction to great effect when it is suitable for a patient’s course of treatment, removing fat and refining definition on targeted areas of the body. Liposuction does not, however, address the tissue bands that create cellulite, which presents a different cosmetic concern.
Why Liposuction is Not a Good Cellulite Treatment
Liposuction will not remove cellulite because removing fat does not remove or repair the connective bands surrounding it. Cellulite appears when the fibrous bands beneath the skin pull inward, producing a dimpled appearance. The presence or lack of fat has little bearing on cellulite’s occurrence. In fact, cellulite may appear even more pronounced after fat loss or removal, especially if the surrounding skin becomes looser as a result.
During liposuction, Dr. Zarrabi removes fat and sculpts the body to create pleasing contours. If the skin in the treatment area has poor elasticity and does not retract to fit the new contours, there is potential for cellulite to form or become more pronounced where it already existed. On areas like the thighs and buttocks, where cellulite most commonly occurs, a skillful surgeon like Dr. Zarrabi carefully and thoughtfully contours the body while performing liposuction, not for the purpose of cellulite removal but also with care not to aggravate or pronounce any fibrous tissue bands in the treatment area.
Efficient Cellulite Treatments
Dr. Zarrabi and his team at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery offer other highly effective techniques that help improve skin texture, boost collagen production, and support the superficial layers of the dermis.
Microneedling & ACP
Microneedling is a minimally invasive skincare procedure that stimulates the body’s natural rejuvenation processes. It helps to effectively improve the appearance of cellulite as it strengthens collagen, addresses dermal layers, and smooths surface skin. In addition to traditional microneedling, Dr. Zarrabi and his team may also suggest ACP-enhanced microneedling, which utilizes your own platelets rich in growth factors to stimulate healing and regeneration, helping reduce the appearance of cellulite over time. Both types of microneedling improve the quality of the skin, which is one of the underlying factors affecting the appearance of cellulite.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing
CO2 laser resurfacing is a non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatment that addresses skin quality. Thermal energy from the CO2 laser performs a kind of “micro-abrasion” that triggers healing and tissue regeneration in the treated areas. By stimulating collagen and elastin growth, the skin’s structural integrity improves, and visible signs of cellulite may fade.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Cellulite Treatment
Individuals who choose treatments that directly target the factors that cause cellulite are likely to experience more visible and lasting results. Patients who work with Dr. Zarrabi to select the appropriate treatment plan for their goals will benefit from improved skin texture, smoother contours in previously dimpled areas, stronger connective tissue beneath the skin, natural effects without extraneous fat removal, and ongoing collagen regeneration for sustainable results.
Candidates
Eligible candidates for cellulite treatment at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery will be individuals who wish to minimize the appearance of cellulite and are open to guidance from compassionate, highly trained medical professionals who can guide them toward the right treatment options for their specific circumstances. Potential candidates should understand that cellulite is not fat, and the right treatment for you may not involve fat removal at all. If you are in relatively good health, maintain a stable weight, and are ready to learn about your options, you can schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Zarrabi today!
Personal Consultation
At your consultation appointment, Dr. Zarrabi will learn your health history, conduct a physical exam to assess any areas you wish to address, and discuss your health concerns, goals, and expectations. He will directly evaluate the severity of present cellulite, as well as its underlying and contributing factors such as skin condition, tethered septae, and collagen function. Dr. Zarrabi believes in full transparency and an open dialogue to keep you informed and participating in your ideal treatment plan. Contact us online or call our office at (310) 584-9990 to schedule your personal consultation, the first step in your treatment journey.
Cost of Cellulite Treatment in Los Angeles
The total cost of your cellulite treatment will depend on factors such as the particular procedure you undergo, the severity of your cellulite, your personal goals, and more. After Dr. Zarrabi consults with you and creates your personalized treatment plan, he will provide a corresponding and itemized cost list. Zarrabi Plastic Surgery also offers financing options to make treatment more accessible.
FAQ
Does liposuction ever get rid of cellulite?
Only in extremely rare cases, and it shouldn’t be the primary goal of a liposuction procedure. If a patient wants to target cellulite specifically, Dr. Zarrabi will always recommend an alternative treatment. While liposuction improves contour and removes fat, it does not address the connective tissue that creates cellulite. Liposuction can not effectively release the septae or change the structural tension beneath the skin.
Why does cellulite sometimes look worse after weight loss?
When the skin becomes looser or thinner, as it does after significant weight loss, the dimpling created by fibrous bands becomes more visible. This is why cellulite is not limited to individuals with higher body fat.
Can exercise reduce cellulite?
Exercise can improve muscle tone and skin support, but it cannot change the septae that cause cellulite. Many very fit individuals still have cellulite because it is structural, not weight-related.
How long do results from cellulite treatments last?
Result duration depends on the treatment method and skin quality. Treatments that stimulate collagen, such as microneedling and CO2 laser resurfacing, offer results that can last for many months or longer with proper maintenance.
Are cellulite treatments painful?
Patients describe cellulite treatments as being well-tolerated. They generally involve minimal discomfort and require little downtime.
How do I know which approach to treating cellulite is right for me?
Since every patient is different, Dr. Zarrabi will evaluate your unique case and overall skin enhancement goals during your personal consultation. From there, he will create a customized treatment plan that includes recommendations for any corresponding treatments he feels will be most effective and beneficial for you.
References
- Gabriel A, Chan V, Caldarella M, Wayne T, O’Rorke E. Cellulite: Current Understanding and Treatment. Aesthet Surg J Open Forum. 2023 Jun 21;5:ojad050. doi: 10.1093/asjof/ojad050. PMID: 37424836; PMCID: PMC10324940. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10324940/
- Arora G, Patil A, Hooshanginezhad Z, et al. Cellulite: presentation and management. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022;21(4):1393–1401. doi: 10.1111/jocd.14815 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35104044/
- Bartow MJ, Szymanski KD, Raggio BS. Liposuction. [Updated 2025 Jul 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563135/
