Do you have lumpy, uneven skin on your hips, thighs, or buttocks? This is likely cellulite—fat deposits surrounded by fibrous connective tissue that gives skin a puckered, dimpled appearance.
This skin condition is incredibly common, affecting around 90 percent of women at some point in their lives, as well as some men.[*]
While cellulite is not harmful in any way, many people feel self-conscious about its appearance. If you fall in this camp, the good news is that innovative, non-invasive treatments exist that can dramatically reduce the appearance of cellulite.
We’ll be discussing one such treatment called QWO in this article, but first, let’s cover some cellulite basics.
What Causes Cellulite?
Cellulite involves bands of collagen called septae that tether the skin to the underlying muscle. As fat cells accumulate between the septae, they push up against the skin, while the septae pull down. This creates dimpling of the skin.
People of all body types and weights can get cellulite, but several factors may contribute to its development or worsening, including:[*]
- Hormones
- Genetics
- Age
- Weight gain
- Inactivity
- Pregnancy
How Is Cellulite Treated?
For decades, cellulite has been deemed an inevitable part of life that no amount of coffee scrubs or creams can permanently eliminate.
Other more aggressive cellulite treatments are available that involve lasers, tiny incisions, and energy (i.e., radio frequency or infrared technology). However, these treatments can be invasive, time-consuming, and sometimes painful, as they all focus on cutting the high-tension cords that tether the skin to the muscle below.
That’s all changing thanks to QWO—an FDA-approved injectable treatment for cellulite that’s quickly gaining traction in the beauty world.
How Does QWO Work?
The mechanism behind QWO is similar to that of other cellulite treatments, but this treatment is unique because it’s the first injectable for cellulite. It’s also the least invasive treatment to show tangible results.
To administer QWO, a doctor injects an enzyme solution directly into cellulite dimples via a tiny needle. Because the needle is so small, it’s virtually painless and doesn’t require anesthesia or downtime.
Once injected, the enzyme in QWO (collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes) is thought to target collagen types 1 and 3 to break down the fibrous septae responsible for creating cellulite, resulting in smoother skin.
QWO also supports the reduction of cellulite by redistributing fat cells and stimulating new collagen growth.[*]
How Soon Will You See Results with QWO?
Most patients require just three treatment sessions (21 days apart), and one session takes about ten minutes from start to finish. Compare this to other cellulite treatments that require anesthesia, take anywhere from 40 to 100 minutes per session, and require significant downtime.
Those treated with QWO typically see results as soon as ten weeks after their first treatment. With each subsequent treatment, results improve, with final results achieved about 90 days following the first visit. QWO results are expected to last between one and two years.
Is QWO an Effective Cellulite Treatment?
QWO has been studied in more patients than any other FDA-approved cellulite treatment.
In a study involving over 1,800 women, three QWO treatment sessions significantly improved cellulite appearance in the buttocks of adult women with moderate to severe cellulite. The treatment was generally well tolerated.[*]
The most common side effect of QWO is bruising around the treatment area, which will dissipate within two weeks.
Reduce Your Cellulite at Rodgers Dermatology
QWO is a prescription medication and is only available from certain licensed medical doctors. Rodgers Dermatology in Frisco, Texas is proud to offer this groundbreaking injectable that helps improve people’s appearance and confidence.
QWO is FDA-approved specifically to treat cellulite in the buttocks of women, but is often used to treat thighs as well. If you have concerns about cellulite in other areas, don’t hesitate to talk with Dr. Rodgers about alternative cellulite treatment options.
Don’t spend another day feeling self-conscious due to cellulite. Feel free to contact us at 972-704-2400 with any questions or to schedule a consultation. You can also book an appointment online.