Celulite Reduction
Cellulite Treatment in Bellevue, WA | Avéli™, Cellulaze®, RF Microneedling & GoldIncision®
Smooth, confident skin starts here. At our Bellevue, WA clinic, board-certified providers use FDA-cleared Avéli™, Cellulaze®, RF microneedling, and more to target dimples, laxity, and rippling with minimal downtime. In your consultation, we'll map your cellulite type and design a personalized plan, with transparent pricing and financing options. Book a consultation to see if a single-session solution or a series-based approach is right for you.
Get Started Today
Book a consultation to discuss your personalized cellulite treatment plan. (425) 281-4325 or schedule online for your Bellevue appointment.
What Is Cellulite?
Cellulite affects nearly 90% of women at some point in their lives. It's not just about weight—even fit, healthy people can have cellulite. Understanding what causes it helps us choose the best treatment for you.
What causes cellulite? (fibrous septae, connective tethers, subcutaneous tissue anatomy)
Cellulite forms when fibrous septae—tough bands of connective tissue—pull down on your skin while fat pushes up against it. These connective tethers create the dimpled appearance we see on the surface. Your subcutaneous tissue (the layer of fat under your skin) plays a big role in how cellulite looks.
Dimples vs. skin laxity vs. fat pockets: how they differ
Dimples are the classic cellulite appearance—those dents and depressions on your skin. Skin laxity is loose, sagging skin that often comes with aging. Fat pockets are areas where adipose tissue bulges between the fibrous bands. Each needs a different treatment approach.
Cellulite grades (Nürnberger-Müller scale) and common areas (thighs, buttocks, abdomen)
Doctors use the Nürnberger-Müller scale to grade cellulite from 0 (no cellulite) to 3 (severe). Most cellulite appears on thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the abdomen. Knowing your grade helps us recommend the right treatment intensity.
Role of hormones, genetics, and weight changes
Hormones, especially estrogen, influence cellulite formation. Your genetics determine how your body stores fat and how strong those fibrous bands are. Weight changes can make cellulite more or less visible, but they don't cause it.
Collagen and elastin changes with aging
As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin—the proteins that keep skin firm and elastic. This makes cellulite more noticeable over time.
Cellulite Treatment Options in Bellevue, WA (FDA-Cleared)
Our Bellevue clinic offers multiple FDA-cleared treatments to tackle cellulite from different angles. Note the specific FDA-cleared indication (e.g., temporary reduction in cellulite appearance for energy-based devices; septa release for Avéli™). Here's what's available:
Avéli™ Septa Release (Single Session)
Avéli™ is a game-changer for cellulite dimples. This minimally-invasive procedure precisely releases the septa bands causing your dimples in just one session.
GoldIncision® Subcision (Needle vs. Microcannula)
GoldIncision® uses a special subcision technique to break up fibrous bands under the skin, smoothing out dimples effectively. Performed with a microcannula to release tethering bands; ideal for discrete dimples. Expect bruising 1-2 weeks.
RF, Vacuum & Infrared (Reactionâ„¢) for Texture
RF (radiofrequency) combined with vacuum therapy and infrared light like Reaction™ offers a non-surgical approach to improve skin texture and reduce cellulite appearance. Best for texture and mild rippling; typically 6-8 sessions with temporary improvement that may need maintenance.
RF Microneedling for Laxity (Morpheus8 Body)
RF microneedling with Morpheus8 Body targets both cellulite and skin laxity by delivering radiofrequency energy deep into the skin.
RFAL Tightening & Fat Coagulation (BodyTite®)
Radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis (RFAL) with BodyTite® melts fat while tightening skin—perfect for areas with both cellulite and excess fat.
Acoustic wave/shockwave therapy (AWT/EPAT)
Acoustic wave therapy (AWT) or EPAT uses shockwave therapy to break up fibrous tissue and boost circulation.
Cellulaze® 1440 nm Laser for Dimples
Cellulaze® uses a 1440 nm laser to cut fibrous bands, melt fat, and stimulate collagen stimulation in one treatment. Cellulaze® is best for dimples with mild laxity; significant laxity is better addressed with RF microneedling or BodyTite®.
Combination Plans by Cellulite Type and Skin Quality
Often, the best results come from combining treatments based on your specific cellulite type and skin condition.
How Avéli™, Cellulaze®, RF & RFAL Work
Tether Release (Septa/Subcision)
Treatments like Avéli™ and GoldIncision® use either a needle or cannula to cut the tight bands pulling down your skin, instantly releasing dimples.
Radiofrequency and infrared: collagen/elastin stimulation and skin tightening
RF and infrared energy heat the deep layers of skin, triggering new collagen and elastin production for firmer, smoother skin.
RF microneedling: fractional coagulation for texture and laxity
Tiny needles deliver RF energy in a fractional pattern, creating controlled micro-injuries that trigger powerful skin renewal.
Vacuum therapy: circulation and tissue remodeling support
Vacuum therapy massages the tissue, improving blood flow and helping reshape the fat layer under your skin.
Laser-assisted subcision and fat remodeling (Cellulaze® 1440 nm)
The Cellulaze® laser cuts fibrous bands, liquefies small fat pockets, and heats the skin from below to boost collagen.
RFAL: temperature-controlled fat coagulation and tightening
RFAL precisely heats and melts fat while monitoring temperature to ensure safe, effective skin tightening.
Tumescent Anesthesia, Oral Sedation & Pro-Nox Options
For comfort during minimally-invasive procedures, we use tumescent anesthesia—a diluted local anesthetic that numbs the area. Offer oral anxiolytics or Pro-Nox (nitrous) for added comfort during minimally invasive procedures.
Collagen/Elastin Stimulation and Timelines (6-12+ Weeks)
While some results appear quickly, full collagen remodeling takes 6-12 weeks or more as your body creates new, healthy tissue.
Results, Downtime & Maintenance
Expected Improvement by Severity
Many patients see noticeable improvement; results vary by cellulite grade, skin quality, and modality.
Onset and Longevity by Modality
Avéli™ and Cellulaze® show results within weeks that can last years. RF treatments show gradual improvement over 2-3 months.
Maintenance Schedules (RF/AWT Every 6-12 Months)
Single-session treatments like Avéli™ typically last years. Energy-based treatments may need touch-ups every 6-12 months.
Before-and-after photo expectations and typical timelines
Before-and-after photos show real results. Most dramatic changes appear 3-6 months post-treatment as collagen rebuilds.
Benefits & Expected Results
Smoother skin and fewer visible dimples
Improved firmness in areas with mild laxity
Visible improvements in 2-8 weeks; peak at 3-6 months
Longevity: single-session (years) vs. energy-based (maintenance)
Ideal Candidates & Safety (Fitzpatrick I-VI)
BMI and Weight Stability
Best results occur when your BMI is stable and you maintain weight stability before and after treatment. Very high BMI or severe laxity may reduce dimple-focused results; a tightening-first plan may be recommended.
Fitzpatrick skin types I-VI: suitability and settings
Our treatments work safely on all Fitzpatrick skin types from I to VI with appropriate settings adjustments. For darker skin tones, we adjust energy settings and emphasize PIH prevention with strict sun avoidance and pigment-safe protocols.
Contraindications (Pregnancy, Anticoagulants, Keloid Risk)
Contraindications include pregnancy, active infection, blood thinners (anticoagulants), and history of keloid scarring.
Realistic expectations: cellulite reduction vs. elimination
We achieve significant cellulite reduction, but complete elimination isn't always possible. Honesty about results is key.
What to Expect: Consultation, Procedure & Aftercare
Photos, Marking & Mapping
We take photos, mark treatment areas, and map out the exact spots needing attention.
Comfort measures and what you'll feel
Most treatments involve mild pressure or warmth. We ensure you're comfortable throughout.
Post-Care (Compression, Lymphatic Drainage)
Post-treatment care often includes wearing a compression garment and sometimes lymphatic drainage massage. Wear compression 24/7 for 3-7 days, then daytime only for an additional week as directed. Optional 1-3 sessions in the first 2 weeks can reduce swelling and speed recovery.
Activity Timeline (Workouts, Travel, Sauna, Sun)
Light activity resumes in days, full workouts in 1-2 weeks. Avoid saunas and sun for 2 weeks. Avoid long flights, hot tubs, and prolonged sitting on treated buttocks for ~1 week; use a cushion if needed.
Downtime and recovery (bruising, swelling, redness)
Downtime varies. Expect some bruising, swelling, and redness that resolves within 1-2 weeks.
Event planning: how far in advance to schedule
Schedule treatments at least 6-8 weeks before special events for best results.
Treatment Process: Before, During, and After
Consultation, photos, and mapping
Anesthesia and procedure (Avéli™/Cellulaze® or energy-based session)
Compression, lymphatic drainage, and activity restrictions
Follow-ups and maintenance plan
Risks, Side Effects & Limitations
Common: bruising, swelling, redness, temporary soreness
Less common: hyperpigmentation, contour irregularities, seroma/hematoma, transient numbness/neuropraxia
Not a weight-loss treatment; significant laxity may need tightening first
Common effects: bruising, swelling, redness
Most patients experience temporary bruising, swelling, and redness that fade within days to weeks.
Less common risks: infection, hyperpigmentation, contour irregularities, neuropraxia, seroma/hematoma
Rare risks include infection, hyperpigmentation, contour irregularities, temporary nerve issues (neuropraxia), and fluid collections (seroma/hematoma).
Limitations based on cellulite type and skin laxity
Severe skin laxity or certain cellulite types may need combination approaches or alternative treatments.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Single-session options (Avéli™, Cellulaze®) vs. series-based modalities (RF/infrared/AWT)
Avéli™ and Cellulaze® work in one session. RF and AWT typically need 4-8 treatments.
Typical session frequency by modality
Session frequency for RF treatments is usually weekly or bi-weekly. Single-session procedures are one-and-done.
Treatment timeline and milestones
See initial improvements in 2-4 weeks, significant changes by 3 months, final results at 6 months.
Maintenance plans (e.g., 6-12 months for energy-based devices)
Energy-based treatments benefit from maintenance sessions every 6-12 months.
Cellulite Treatment Cost in Bellevue & Financing (CareCredit)
Factors: area size, cellulite grade, modality, number of sessions
What's included: provider time, follow-ups, post-care supplies, compression
Payment options: CareCredit financing, packages, seasonal specials
Factors that influence cost (area, severity, modality, sessions)
Cost structure depends on treatment area size, cellulite severity, technology used, and number of sessions needed.
What's included in your quote (follow-ups, aftercare, compression)
Our quotes include follow-up visits, aftercare products, and compression garments when needed.
Transparent pricing at consultation
We provide clear, upfront pricing during your consultation—no hidden fees.
Financing and packages (e.g., CareCredit) and current specials
Financing through CareCredit makes treatments affordable. Ask about package deals and seasonal specials.
Alternatives & Combination Body Contouring (CoolSculpting®, Liposuction, BodyTite®)
At-home devices and topical creams: what the science says
Home remedies and creams show limited scientific backing for significant cellulite reduction. Topicals (caffeine/retinol) and tools (dry brushing) may give temporary texture improvement but do not release fibrous septae.
Combining with body contouring or skin tightening (CoolSculpting®, liposuction, RFAL/BodyTite®, RF microneedling)
Combine cellulite treatment with body contouring like CoolSculpting®, liposuction, or fat reduction for comprehensive results.
Lifestyle measures that support results (weight stability, activity, skincare)
Maintain results with stable weight, regular exercise, and good skincare habits.
Who Performs Your Treatment (Board-Certified, Licensed)
Licensed and board-certified providers
Only licensed providers who are board-certified perform treatments at our clinic.
Cellulite-specific training and device proficiency
Our team has specialized training in cellulite treatments and extensive experience with each device.
Use of FDA-cleared technologies and safety protocols
We exclusively use FDA-cleared technologies and follow strict safety protocols.
Physician oversight and multidisciplinary care
All treatments have physician oversight for your safety and optimal results.
Avéli™ vs. Cellulaze® vs. RF vs. GoldIncision®: Results, Downtime & Cost
Best match by concern: dimples vs. rippling vs. laxity
Avéli™ and GoldIncision® excel at dimples. RF treatments handle rippling and mild laxity. Cellulaze® is best for dimples with mild laxity; significant laxity is better addressed with RF microneedling or BodyTite®.
Downtime, discomfort, and anesthesia differences
RF has minimal downtime. Avéli™ and Cellulaze® need local anesthesia with 1-2 weeks recovery.
Longevity of results and maintenance needs
Avéli™ and Cellulaze® last years. RF treatments need maintenance every 6-12 months.
Areas We Treat in Bellevue
Buttocks
Smooth and lift the buttocks area for a more toned appearance.
Outer and posterior thighs
Target stubborn cellulite on the backs and sides of thighs.
Inner thighs and banana roll
Address dimpling on inner thighs and the banana roll area.
Hips/flanks and abdomen (select cases)
Treat cellulite on hips, flanks, and abdominal areas when appropriate.
Why Choose Our Bellevue Clinic
Local expertise and board-certified providers
Our Bellevue, WAÂ team brings years of local expertise with board-certified providers you can trust.
Convenient Eastside location, on-site parking, flexible scheduling
Easy Eastside access with free parking and appointment times that work for you.
Transparent pricing, financing, and post-care support
Clear pricing, financing options, and comprehensive post-treatment support.
Before-and-after gallery and verified patient reviews
See real results in our gallery and read verified patient experiences.
Scheduling & Next Steps
In-person and virtual consultations available
Choose between in-person or virtual consultations to get started.
What to bring: medical history, medications, goals, inspiration photos
Bring your medical history, current medications, treatment goals, and any inspiration photos.
How to prepare for treatment day
We'll provide detailed prep instructions specific to your treatment.
Ready to Reduce Cellulite?
Take the first step toward smoother skin. Our Bellevue team is ready to create your personalized treatment plan.
FAQs
What is cellulite and why does it form?
Cellulite forms when fibrous bands pull down on skin while fat pushes up, creating dimples. It's influenced by genetics, hormones, and aging.
What are the most effective cellulite reduction treatments available in Bellevue?
Avéli™, Cellulaze®, and RF treatments show excellent results. The best choice depends on your specific cellulite type.
How does Avéli™/GoldIncision®/RF therapy work to reduce cellulite?
These treatments either release fibrous bands (Avéli™/GoldIncision®) or stimulate collagen production (RF) to smooth skin.
What should I expect during and after the procedure? Is there downtime?
Expect mild discomfort during treatment. Downtime ranges from none (RF) to 1-2 weeks (Avéli™/Cellulaze®).
How many sessions are needed and how frequently?
Single session for Avéli™/Cellulaze®. RF typically needs 4-8 sessions spaced 1-2 weeks apart.
What is the cost of cellulite reduction and what factors influence pricing?
Costs vary based on treatment area, technology, and sessions needed. Consultation provides exact pricing.
Am I a good candidate for cellulite reduction treatments?
Good candidates have visible cellulite, stable weight, and realistic expectations about results.
Are there risks or side effects I should be aware of?
Common side effects include bruising and swelling. Serious complications are rare with qualified providers.
How long do results last? Is maintenance required?
Avéli™ and Cellulaze® last years. RF treatments benefit from annual touch-ups.
Are home remedies or topical products effective alternatives?
Home remedies show limited effectiveness compared to professional treatments.
What makes professional procedures safer or more effective than at-home options?
Professional treatments use FDA-cleared technology with proven results and medical supervision.
Who will perform the procedure and what are their qualifications?
Board-certified providers with specialized cellulite treatment training perform all procedures.
Avéli™ vs. Cellulaze®—which offers longer-lasting cellulite reduction?
Both offer long-lasting results. Avéli™ is newer with excellent outcomes; Cellulaze® has longer track record.
Is cellulite treatment safe for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-VI)?
Yes, our treatments work safely on all skin types with appropriate settings.
Can I combine cellulite treatment with liposuction or BodyTite® in the same session?
Often yes, combining treatments can address multiple concerns efficiently.
How much does Avéli™ or Cellulaze® cost in Bellevue, and do you offer CareCredit or package pricing?
Avéli™ and Cellulaze® pricing varies by treatment area and severity. We offer CareCredit financing and package options to make treatments affordable. Exact pricing provided at consultation.
Avéli™ vs. Cellulaze® vs. RF microneedling: which is best for grade 3 cellulite or significant skin laxity?
For grade 3 cellulite with dimples, Avéli™ or Cellulaze® work best. Significant skin laxity responds better to RF microneedling or BodyTite®. We often combine approaches for optimal results.
How soon can I sit, work out, or fly after Avéli™ or Cellulaze®? What's the week-by-week recovery timeline?
Week 1: Light walking, avoid sitting directly on treated areas, no flights. Week 2: Resume normal sitting, light exercise. Week 3-4: Full workouts and travel resume. Individual timelines vary.
Note: Collagenase clostridium histolyticum (Qwo®) was previously FDA-approved for cellulite but is no longer available. Discontinued due to injection-site adverse events; we now favor mechanical septa release (Avéli™/GoldIncision®) for dimples.
References
Take Action Against Cellulite Today
Don't let cellulite hold you back. Our Bellevue clinic offers proven solutions with lasting results. Schedule your consultation and discover which treatment is right for you.