The French company LPG Systems introduced a novel cellulite treatment to the United States in the early 1990s called Endermologie. According to The Patient's Guide to Cellulite, this technique, which uses a combination of deep tissue massage and suction, is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for temporary cellulite reduction. However, many treatments are required, and Endermologie may not yield success for everyone.
About LPG
LPG Systems considers itself the national leader in "natural slimming and anti-aging technology," according to the company website. LPG has two patented techniques: Lipomassage, which treats cellulite; and Endermolift, designed to tackle wrinkles and other signs of aging in the face. LPG also makes and distributes devices that spas and clinics use to administer treatments. LPG has subsidiaries in Belgium, Italy and the U.K., and is represented in more than 70 countries. Purportedly, more than 100,000 women get treatments everyday, nationwide.
Cellulite Information
Cellulite is a type of fat that's with you for life once you get it. Women are far more likely to get cellulite than men; according to the Patient's Guide to Cellulite, 85 percent of women have cellulite by age 40. The American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD, describes cellulite as the body's way of stashing fat to ensure that women have calories readily available during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you're a woman, the criss-cross orientation of the bands in your connective tissue are largely responsible for why this type of fat shows up in distinct but irregular lumps. Cellulite usually tends to form on the buttocks and thighs, but you may also notice it on your inner knees, hips, abdomen and underneath your arms.
Endermologie Basics
Endermologie is noninvasive treatment that typically lasts no longer than 45 minutes, says The Patient's Guide to Cellulite. It's generally not painful; like a deep tissue massage, Endermologie can even be soothing. During treatment, a mechanical roller is applied to the body. Simultaneously, a suction device tugs on the cellulite-affected area. Endermologie increases blood and oxygen to cellulite-afflicted areas of the skin, after which fluids from the cells are removed during urination. Drinking up to eight glasses of water a day while undergoing Endermologie treatments is advised to prevent dehydration.
Treatments Needed
Between 10 and 20 treatments are needed before you'll see results -- and the Patient's Guide to Cellulite points out that results won't last forever. You'll need additional sessions to maintain your appearance. According to InfoPlasticSurgery.com, as of December 2010, the average cost of Endermologie was between $1,200 and $2,000, with each treatment session priced between $50 and $70.
Study Results
LPG Systems claims that 24 years of research and 85 scientific studies prove Endermologie's success in treating cellulite. But MayoClinic.com indicates there's no hard data to suggest consistent results. Results of a clinical study published in the International Journal of Dermatology in March 2009 yielded disappointing results. Researchers at Baskent University Faculty of Medicine in Ankara, Turkey administered Endermologie to 33 women with cellulite two times a week for a total of 15 treatments. Researchers found that the appearance of cellulite improved in only five of the women, or 15 percent of the study group.
Other Tips
According to MayoClinic.com, a less expensive way to reduce the appearance of cellulite is to lose weight. It advises a nutritious diet and plenty of exercise, focusing on strengthening activities that tone the muscles in your legs, thighs and buttocks.
