BOSTON -- In the quest for the perfect figure, cellulite is the one obstacle even skinny fashion models can't avoid and they're not alone. Experts say 80 percent to 90 percent of us have at least some cellulite.
New technology, however, is helping to smooth out those unsightly dimples and the questio is whether the cost and the outcome is worth it?
NewsCenter 5's Heather Unruh reported that everybody wants to get rid of cellulite and one woman thinks she may have found the secret.
"I think I'm more comfortable in my bathing suit this year than I was last year," Nicole Hutt said.
That's thanks to a new technology that's just been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It's called VelaSmooth, and it claims to decrease the dimples and melt away fat.
"So far, it's the best technology available. I think it's beating creams hands down. I think it's doing more than endermology,"
Dr. Christine Hamori said.
VelaSmooth uses a combination of radio frequency energy and infrared light to heat up and release the fat, which is simultaneously smoothed over with a roller suction. Cosmetic surgeon Hamori participated in the FDA trials for VelaSmooth.
"Nine of our 10 patients were very happy with the results. Eight of them saw some decrease in inches, which was very exciting," Hamori said.
The 10-treatment minimum costs up to $2,000. Results only last about six months, leading some to question whether it's wasted time and money.
"There's nothing that convinces me that this treatment repeatedly administered is truly going to change the way your skin looks," Dr. Ruth Tedaldi said.
Hamori has been inundated with e-mail and calls from people looking to give VelaSmooth a try. She said dozens of people, like Hutt, have witnessed a slow but noticable cellulite decline.
"We measured and I think I had half-an-inch from each leg," Hutt said.
VelaSmooth does cause redness and some discomfort, but the FDA found it to be safe, although its long-term potential remains to be seen.
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