Summer is unofficially known as many things—shorts season and bathing suit season, just to name a few. While many of us love the warmer temperatures and longer days, this time of year can also cause anxiety and self-doubt for someone living with cellulite. It is a widespread skin condition, and we see it often at the Plastic Surgery Center of Dallas.
But for many patients, the real causes of cellulite seem to be a mystery. The lumpy or dimpled skin commonly appears on the stomach, thighs, buttocks, and arms—all areas of the body that we normally carry extra weight. While you might think cellulite simply has to do with weight gain or a sedentary lifestyle, the scientific cause of cellulite might surprise you, along with the factors that influence it.
How Cellulite is Formed
During cellulite formation, fibrous bands that connect your skin to the underlying muscle tighten irregularly. This tightening of your skin pulls down on your skin while the normal layer of fat under your skin pushes upwards. It results in a puckering appearance of the skin—what we know as cellulite.
Factors that Influence Cellulite Formation
While the process that causes cellulite to form is relatively straightforward, some factors might make you more likely to get cellulite. Gender and genetics are two of these influential makers. Women are typically more likely to develop cellulite than men, though the scientific reasoning behind this is not clear.
Genetics can also play a role, as a family history of cellulite can mean you are also more likely to develop it. Other factors, such as hormones and poor circulation, are also thought to influence the likelihood of a person developing the trademark “orange peel” look.
If your cellulite has you feeling uncomfortable in your own skin, there are many treatment options. Living a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and limited alcohol consumption, can help you look and feel your best. Dr. Walker also offers procedures that can minimize the appearance of cellulite for smoother skin. Book your consultation with our Dallas, Texas, team, by calling 972-661-5077 or visiting us online at cosmeticsurgerydallas.com.
