What is it about?

Cellulite, also called PEFE (fibro-sclerotic edematous panniculopathy), is defined as an alteration of the subcutaneous tissue that causes nodules and depressions, giving rise to the well-known orange peel skin. It is very common in women, however men can also suffer from it. It usually occurs from adolescence onwards.

There are predisposing factors that are related to heredity, circulatory disorders, determining factors such as puberty, postpartum, menopause and other triggering factors that have to do with the lack of hygienic-dietary habits such as unbalanced eating, a sedentary lifestyle or consumption of toxic substances such as coffee, cigarettes and alcohol

Areas prone to cellulite contain a higher concentration of adipocytes that alter the area structurally and architecturally. This cellular change in adipocytes is due to the fact that adequate drainage does not occur in the cells of the affected area. As a consequence of this, fat cells increase in size, become rigid and inflamed, causing lymphatic and circulatory problems.

Cellulite usually occurs in localized areas, such as thighs or hips, although there are also generalized cases. There are different degrees of cellulite. In milder cases, it becomes visible when pinching the skin, and in more advanced cases, an irregular surface with depressions is observed even in resting skin. There are several classifications of cellulite, according to its location, severity (grade from 0 to 4), symptoms and histopathology (flaccid, edematous, compact or mixed). Many times cellulite is also accompanied by sagging.

HOW IS IT TREATED?

It is a progressive disease, and although so far there is no definitive cure, it is possible to deal with it with many treatments that achieve sustainable improvement and delay its evolution.