After having my nearly lifelong concern about Cellulite put into perspective with some real data, I have gone on a search for the best treatment that can actually get Rid of Cellulite. So, when I heard about this Amazing way to get rid of cellulite called Shock Wave Therapy, I just had to take a look.

First…. Let’s take a look at the anatomy of Cellulite.

The skin is made up of several layers. First is the outermost layer, or Epidermis. Immediately under this is the dermis (corium) that houses the hair follicles, sweat glands, blood vessels, nerve receptors and connective tissue. Next we have the first of two layers of subcutaneous (below the skin) fat. This first layer is composed of chambers or lobules arranged vertically. It is within this layer that Cellulite occurs when small protrusions (papillae adiposae) protrude upwards into the dermis. This is what creates the bumpy dimpling that makes Cellulite so unattractive.

So how Amazing can this Shock Wave Treatment be? What is it? How does it work? What are the side effects? What does it cost? Does it Work? /Is it temporary or permanent? What do actually people say about their treatment?

What is it?

Shock Wave Therapy, also known as Acoustic Wave Therapy, or lithotripsy, was originally used for destruction of kidney stones, and has been in use for over 30 years in urology. It was adapted for outside the body treatment (known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy, or ESWL) for use in treatment rather than destruction.

When used for treating cellulite, it involves delivering a mechanical energy through the skin to the subcutaneous (below the surface) tissues using acoustic waves. This is said to stimulate the underlying cells, causing an improvement in the metabolism and micro circulation. It is thought that this causes improvement in lymph and blood micro circulation, having an anti-inflammatory effect.

What is the process?

The process involves a series of 6 to 12 treatments once or twice a week. An average treatment delivers 2000 pulses per 10 – 15 centimeters of treatment area. An ultra-sound gel is used and the treatment is described as a very vigorous massage. Most people tolerate the procedure well, saying it is warm but not hot.

Where traditional lithotripsy is done by physicians often in a hospital setting, most Shock Wave Treatment for Cellulite is done by non-physicians that are specially trained by the manufacturer of the equipment.

What are the Side Effects?

Side Effects can include pain and redness, plus hypersensitivity in the underlying tissue. It is contraindicated for those with phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis, cancer, or kidney or blood disorders. Post treatment does advise patients to avoid NSAIDS (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc) during the recovery period. Both before and after treatment, you must drink lots of water to wash away any toxins that are released by the process.

What does it Cost?

Upwards of $3000 for a full course of initial treatments depending on your location. Individual treatments often start at less than $100 per site (remember, these are small areas 10-15 centimeters to several inches in size). Maintenance treatments would need to be continued lifelong.

Does it Work?

There are No published studies that confirm the results of this treatment specifically for Cellulite.

Patient reviews?

This is a long term process. In all cases, people stated that the results were very incremental. Reviews are mixed, with some people raving at how successful they are and others very unhappy stating they are not worth the money spent.

Remember, Cellulite is not a disease, so there is no "cure". This all being said, it is worth weighing the risks with rewards, plus deciding how willing you are to commit to the time and expense involved to the response you are looking for.