Cellulite is nothing more than normal fat beneath the skin. The fat appears bumpy because it pushes against connective tissue, causing the skin above it to pucker.

Cellulite isn't harmful. Many people, though, would like to get rid of it because of the way it looks. Arab News’ sister publication Sayidaty met with nutritionist Dr. Vivian Mohammed Wahbi to find out about the latest non-surgical treatments to get rid of cellulite in the Kingdom.

How can I get rid of cellulite permanently?

In order to get rid of cellulite and deep fat permanently, you must follow an ideal health program in the treatment process and eliminate the main cause for cellulite in order to re-activate the lymphatic system and normal blood supply.

How do I identify a suitable treatment for me?

There are many slimming techniques. You should consult with an expert to determine an appropriate treatment for you. First, we should understand the nature of the body in terms of the weight, age, BMI, diseases (if any), health status, etc. The suitable method is identified according to the type and degree of cellulite. It is important to identify the problem. Is it a cellulite problem in the upper layer, resembling an orange rind and resulting from the accumulation of fat? This kind of problem results in projections on the surface of the skin, which lead to loss of skin vitality and elasticity. Or is it fat that accumulates deeper beneath the surface of the skin, which is called ‘deep fat’? This mostly targets the lower part of a woman’s body and the man'’s abdominal area. Or is it water cellulite, fibrous cellulite or water fibrous cellulite? After the detection and identification of the problem, the appropriate method and device is chosen, which also includes lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercises.

What are some of these techniques?

There are several modern techniques and the most important ones include cavitation, which uses sound waves with low frequency, and Med Contour, a recent medical technique that is effective and safe for dissolving fat and cellulite without surgery or anesthesia. It reaches the deep fat, breaks them fully and also tightens the muscles. The Ultrasound technology works on regenerating collagen and elastin in the skin, thus improving the texture.

Another technique called the Zerona laser stimulates the fat cell to emulsify (liquefy) the fat within the cell. Then the liquefied fat moves from inside the cell through a temporary pore formed in the cell membrane to outside the cell where it is in the interstitial space until absorbed by the lymphatic system. This results in millions of fat cells becoming smaller so inches are reduced off the waist, hips and thighs. The fat cells are not injured in any way by this process.The laser reaches a depth of 7 cm under the skin and is very safe.

The Fractional Co2 laser is an important technology for the treatment of stretch marks. It works on activating cells and blood circulation, thus activating the skin and increasing the production of collagen. It also helps to tightens the skin.

Dr. Wahbi lists out some do’s and dont’s to achieve the best results:

• First, the procedures must be conducted under the supervision of specialists.

• Follow a healthy diet and stay away from fats, fried food and sweets.

• Exercise, and most importantly, walk for an hour a day.

• Drink 2-3 liters of water every day.

• Take required dietary supplements.

• Take necessary blood tests to confirm body functions.

According to Dr. Wahbi, the above mentioned treatments do not possess any complications. She said they are safe and do not produce any pain. “The individual goes back to his daily life after the session ends. The treatments also work on reducing blood cholesterol,” she said. The treatments are suitable for anyone above the age of 16, the nutritionist said. “It is not preferred for those suffering from heart/cardiovascular diseases or those who use defibrillators or any other medical devices implanted in the body, in addition to pregnant women and people who suffer from excessive obesity,” Dr. Wahbi said.

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