Summary
Cellulite is common and cosmetic, not a disease. In clinic we separate what you see into grades, then design a protocol that treats the limiting factor first, dimpling from fibrous septae or texture from skin laxity, and only then add supportive steps like lymphatic routines. Credible sources agree there is no single cure, outcomes improve when assessment is standardized and when treatment combines the right tools, for example subcision for true dimples and radiofrequency for texture. For a plain-English summary of what works and for how long, the ” Cellulite treatments: What really works? “ and “ Cellulite: Current Understanding and Treatment ” are reliable anchors, and we reference both here. Also remember to see our pillar overview for context, Body Contouring & Fat Reduction in Dubai.
Quick points
- Treat the cause you can see, fixed dimples from fibrous bands respond differently than general laxity
- Standardize grading, then track with the same scale every review
- Combine intentionally, do not stack everything at once, build in reassessment
How we grade cellulite in clinic
We use two complementary systems. The Nürnberger–Müller clinical grade classifies what you see at rest and with muscle contraction into Grades 0 to 3. The Hexsel Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS) is a validated photonumeric tool that scores five items and groups results as mild, moderate, or severe, which improves consistency between photos and visits. We document with the same lighting and pose every time, then set expectations based on grade.
Bullet review
- Nürnberger–Müller, Grade 0 to 3 based on dimpling at rest and with contraction
- Hexsel CSS, five items scored 0 to 3, totals 1 to 5 mild, 6 to 10 moderate, 11 to 15 severe
- Use the same scale at each review to make progress real, not subjective
Protocol design by grade
We design around the primary driver. Fixed dimples from fibrous septae need a release technique like subcision to free the band. Texture and laxity need energy based tightening like radiofrequency. Acoustic wave therapy can support microcirculation and dermal remodeling in select cases. We build short, testable blocks, then measure again before the next step.
Grade 1, mild dimpling with pinch or on contraction
Focus on tissue quality and flow. Prioritize radiofrequency for texture, consider acoustic wave therapy for circulation, and add simple lymphatic routines.
- Plan, RF body tightening 4 to 6 sessions, every 1 to 2 weeks
- Support, acoustic wave therapy 4 to 6 sessions if needed, hydration and walking
- Reassess at week 8 with the same scale and standardized photos.
Grade 2, dimples visible at rest, moderate severity
Split the problem, release fixed bands where they are clear, then refine texture with RF.
- Plan, targeted subcision for true dimples where indicated, then RF 4 to 6 sessions
- Support as needed, acoustic wave or vacuum assisted massage for circulation
- Expectation, visible smoothing when the correct bands are released, texture improves over 8 to 12 weeks.
Grade 3, numerous deep dimples, contour changes
Consider formal subcision using FDA cleared approaches for long-term reduction, then layer RF for laxity and texture.
- Plan, subcision first, staged areas if large fields, then RF 6 to 8 sessions
- Support only when swelling settles, keep steps simple and measurable
- Expectation, best changes come from freeing bands, energy based tools refine after.
Related reads in our cluster
Evidence signals to set expectations
High quality evidence is still limited. Results tend to be modest without a proper release for fibrous bands. Subcision has the strongest patient satisfaction and durability data in clinical use. Radiofrequency can improve texture and circumference in carefully run protocols, often as an adjunct after release. Acoustic wave therapy shows variable benefits that appear technique and regimen dependent. We set timelines and photos to avoid overpromising.
What this means in practice
- Use subcision for fixed dimples, then RF for texture
- Use acoustic wave as a supportive tool, not the main driver
- Reassess after a short block before adding more
Maintenance plans in Dubai
Maintenance depends on the driver of your cellulite and on weight stability. After subcision, we focus on skin quality and circulation, not repeated releases. RF sessions can be spaced monthly or seasonally to keep texture gains. Lymphatic routines, hydration, and steady steps keep swelling down and photos consistent. In Dubai, manage heat on treatment days and use SPF on exposed areas.
Maintenance bullets
- Post-release, avoid unnecessary repeat subcision, focus on texture with RF
- RF maintenance, every 4 to 8 weeks based on photos and touch
- Daily anchors, water intake, steps, simple self lymphatic routines
Safety, candidacy, and comfort
We screen out pregnancy for all procedures, we avoid energy over implanted electrical devices, and we time sessions around travel and heat exposure to minimize swelling. Bruising after subcision is expected and temporary. Most RF sessions feel warm and comfortable. Acoustic wave can feel percussive and is usually well tolerated. Your plan and consents reflect these details before we start.
Safety bullets
- Subcision, expect bruising, rare risks discussed in consent, plan downtime
- RF, avoid over unprotected metal or implanted devices, no pregnancy
- Acoustic wave, percussive sensation, adjust intensity to comfort
- Dubai specific, manage sun and heat on treatment day
What we offer at Genomed
At Genomed we map cellulite protocols to grade and driver, then we measure honestly. We combine targeted release for true dimples with RF body tightening for texture, and we back this with simple maintenance routines. Explore our body programs here, Body Contouring & Fat Reduction and Slimming Treatment in Dubai. If lower face laxity also bothers you, see VFR Facial Contouring.
Program bullets
- Assessment with standardized grading and photos
- Short, testable blocks, then review
- Honest go or not now decisions before adding more
