02 Apr Cellulite or localized adiposity: what are the differences?

We often tend to associate cellulite and localized adiposity, as if they were a single concept; in reality, however, they are two very different problems with very distinguishable characteristics.

Cellulite, also known by its scientific name “edemato-fibro-sclerotic pannicolopathy“, is a multifactorial disorder generated by the stagnation of liquids in subcutaneous tissues that generates the annoying imperfection of orange peel skin.

Cellulite is, therefore, caused by the malfunction of blood and lymphatic vessels that stays, mainly, around thighs and buttocks. When they are clogged, they can no longer circulate the liquids correctly, generating stasis and subcutaneous stagnation.

Localized adiposity, on the other hand, is a phenomenon due to the excess of lipids (fat cells) in specific areas of our body (for example abdomen, hips, calves, arms, etc.): for this reason, there is no correlation with the imperfection of orange peel skin.

Localized adiposity, is not only an annoying unsightly appearance, but is also very difficult to eradicate, especially when it comes to fat accumulations generated over years and years of eating habits; moreover, it is a real risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases and strokes.

Surely, an excess of localized adiposity can also lead to obstruction of lymphatic and capillary vessels since fat can exert pressure on these ducts.

In both cases, before deciding on the type of path to submit with, it is useful to contact a professional in the sector, equipped with contact thermography: a special technology that allows to analyse, in a precise and professional way, the real condition of the tissues.

Thermographic analysis is excellent for analysing the condition of both cellulite (oedematous, fibrous, sclerotic) and localized adiposity. Thanks to its sensitivity, it allows to detect the problem even when it is not visible to the naked eye yet, or detectable at palpation.

This analysis is absolutely painless and devoid of any kind of side effect: the examination takes place by simply placing a thermographic plate on the area to be analysed to get, in a few seconds, a high-resolution color image that reflects the condition of the underlying tissues.

Once the extent of our problem is determined, the trusted professional can direct us towards a change in eating habits combined with cosmetic, aesthetic or medical aesthetic treatments depending on the condition.