Which Type Of Cellulite Does QWO Treat?
Dimpled, “orange peel skin” on the thighs and butt is something that many people, especially women, consider to be one of their biggest body insecurities. These stubborn indentations are what many think of as their worst nightmare when they want to slip on a cute pair of shorts, swimsuit, or daringly cut dress. Cellulite can make you seem out of shape and heavier than you actually are, even if you already work out a lot and are relatively slim overall. There’s nothing wrong with flaunting your legs and embracing the dimples if you feel confident about the way you look, but if you want to address the cellulite, there’s now a simple and effective way to smooth the skin without undergoing an uncomfortable, invasive procedure: QWO®. Portland’s Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery is a provider who uses QWO® injections for patients with a specific type of fibrous cellulite caused by the tightening of connective bands of collagen below the skin’s surface.
Not sure if a QWO® treatment would be effective for you? Even though all cellulite stems from the same underlying cause (structural issues in the skin), not every bit of dimply skin is the same. Patients should start any attempts to smoother their skin by first figuring out what type of cellulite they have, so that they can find the treatment that works best. Some people also have more than one type of cellulite, which may require multiple different treatments. QWO® (which is pronounced kwhoa) is meant for moderate to severe, tight areas of cellulite on the buttocks that are directly caused by types I and III collagen. The following are some of the most common forms of cellulite.
Soft Cellulite
This type of cellulite has a soft, gel-like or wavy, cottage cheese texture and appearance. Increased age, being overweight, having weight fluctuations, and lack of exercise can make it appear more pronounced as the fat tissue accumulates. Soft cellulite occurs in areas where there is excess fat, like the hips, legs, and arms. Exercising regularly and consuming a healthy diet may improve the appearance of this cellulite.
Hard Cellulite
Hard cellulite or solid cellulite is a firm, compact type of cellulite that common among the younger demographic and causes an orange peel-like texture that is often painful or sensitive when you pinch it. It is thought to be a more severe type of the condition and may start to harden or ache if left untreated. The connective tissue bands deep in the skin are tightly attached to the underlying muscle, and dimples are commonly seen on areas such as the glutes, hips, thighs, backs of the knees, arms, and stomach. This is the type of cellulite that QWO® works best to address. It is also the least common class of cellulite and is primarily associated with the natural structure of women’s skin.
Edematous Cellulite
Edematous cellulite is worsened by fluid retention and associated with other symptoms, such as swelling, cramps, varicose veins, and poor circulation. It has a rubbery or spongy texture and appearance. This form of cellulite occurs most frequently around the thighs, knees, and lower legs. Although it is tricky to treat, reducing your intake of salty foods and engaging in more exercise can help.
Aside from these classes, cellulite can also be divided into several different grades, depending on its severity. If you see no signs even when pinching your skin, this is called Grade I cellulite. Grade II cellulite isn’t noticeable, and your skin appears smooth except when you pinch it. Grade III cellulite becomes visible when you’re standing, but looks smooth when you’re lying down. Finally, Grade IV cellulite, which is considered to be the most challenging to treat, can be seen when you’re lying down or standing up.
We all want smooth, firm skin, but around 90 percent of all women have some form of cellulite. Want to learn more about the benefits of QWO® from The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery? Call them at 503-882-0124, or submit a contact form to request an appointment to have your questions answered.