Cellulite and stretch marks on the buttocks are common dermatological phenomena in women, resulting from distinct pathophysiological processes. Although these skin changes are benign, they can cause significant aesthetic discomfort and even lead to real complexes. Thanks to advances in aesthetic medicine, targeted therapeutic solutions are now available to treat these conditions effectively. This article provides a scientific analysis of the underlying causes and an overview of innovative treatments.
Pathophysiological mechanisms of cellulite and stretch marks on the buttocks
What is cellulite? A multifactorial alteration of the subcutaneous tissue
Cellulite, also known as gynoid lipodystrophy, is a dermatological condition characterised by an uneven skin appearance known as « orange peel skin ». It results from a complex interaction between the formation of fatty tissue, fibrosis and impaired microcirculation. It can occur on the buttocks, thighs, arms and stomach. It mainly affects women and is rarer in men.
What are the factors that cause cellulite? :
🔹 A dysfunction of lipid metabolism:
Hyperplasia and hypertrophy of adipocytes, i.e. an increase in the number and size of fat cells under the skin, leading to compression of the blood and lymphatic capillaries.
🔹 Hormonal imbalances: The hormonal influence of oestrogen promotes the production of fatty tissue and water retention.
🔹 A alteration of the connective tissue:
Excessive fibrosis of the connective septa causes traction of the dermis and the appearance of cellulite nodules, giving the skin a dimpled or orange peel appearance.
🔹 Tissue hypoxia and chronic inflammation: Circulatory stagnation leads to poor tissue oxygenation and an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, interleukins), aggravating the fibrotic process.
There are several clinical forms of cellulite:
Adipose cellulite is present in patients with excess body fat.
Aqueous cellulite associated with hydrolipid retention due to venous-lymphatic insufficiency.
Mixed cellulite caused by both poor venous and lymphatic circulation and inflammation of the fatty tissue.
Fibrous cellulite is characterised by tissue hardening and pain when pinched. This is the most advanced stage of cellulite, visible spontaneously when standing or lying down without the need to pinch the skin.
What are stretch marks? They are an atrophic process of the dermis.
Stretch marks (striae distensae) are dermo-epidermal lesions resulting from a rupture of elastic and collagen fibres under the effect of excessive mechanical stress. Stretch marks are located on the thighs, stomach, hips, breasts and buttocks. They affect both women and men.
How do stretch marks appear?
🔹 Through fragmentation of collagen and elastin fibres
caused by rapid stretching of the skin during periods of rapid weight gain, such as during adolescence or pregnancy.
🔹 Through a modification of fibroblasts
that decrease collagen I synthesis and increase the production of immature collagen III.
🔹 Through transient local inflammation
increasing the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) involved in collagen degradation.
🔹 Through endocrine factors
such as cortisol, a stress hormone that alters the structure of connective tissue, predisposing it to the formation of stretch marks.
What are the latest therapeutic innovations in aesthetic medicine for combating cellulite and stretch marks on the buttocks?
To eliminate cellulite on women's buttocks: Emtone, the best way to regain smooth skin
Comment fonctionne EMTONE ?
EMTONE is a technology that combines monopolar radiofrequency and shock waves to effectively treat all types of cellulite. Radiofrequency heats the tissue deep down, stimulating collagen and elastin production, while mechanical shock waves break down the rigid fibres of cellulite and improve blood and lymphatic circulation.
The biological effects of EMTONE
✅ Skin firming by increasing collagen and elastin production.
✅ Reduces fat deposits by stimulating the elimination of the fats responsible for cellulite.
✅ Reduces water retention and leaves your legs feeling light by improving microcirculation.
✅ Reduces tissue fibrosis by softening areas affected by cellulite. Smoothes the appearance of the skin.
How does an Emtone session on the buttocks work?
An EMTONE session is a non-invasive and painless procedure. Here are the typical steps involved in a session:
An initial consultation is mandatory:
A professional assesses the condition of the skin, identifies the areas to be treated, checks for any contraindications, and provides a quote with the number of sessions you will need.
Before each session, the skin is prepared
by applying a conductive gel to optimise the diffusion of radiofrequency. You lie on your stomach.
The session:
The EMTONE tip is slowly moved over the skin of the buttocks and the area under the buttocks called the « banana under the buttocks » using circular drainage movements. The session is not painful; you will feel the heat of the radiofrequency, which can reach a thermal peak, and the shock waves.
Treatment duration:
One session lasts at least 12 minutes per buttock, or approximately 30 minutes for both buttocks.
Progressive results:
The effects begin to be visible after a few sessions and improve as treatment progresses, continuing to improve for up to 2 months after the last session.
No exclusion or post-session care. To optimise results, it is advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced and varied diet without added salt, good hydration with water, and regular physical activity.
How many sessions are needed to treat cellulite on the buttocks?
The number of sessions recommended varies depending on the condition of the cellulite and the patient’s goals. In general:
A standard protocol comprises 4 to 6 sessions.
Treatment is carried out once or twice a week.
Optimal results are visible after 2 to 3 months, as collagen production and tissue remodelling take time.
How much does an Emtone session cost?
The price of a session is 280 euros.
Prices for courses of several sessions are available:
4 Emtone sessions at €1,000
6 Emtone sessions at €1,450
8 Emtone sessions at €1,800
Innovative treatments for stretch marks on the buttocks
1. Microneedling and tissue induction through mechanical stimulation
Microneedling involves creating micro-perforations in the epidermis using micro-needles, inducing a controlled healing response to repair stretch marks.
Physiological benefits:
✅ Increased migration and proliferation of keratinocytes.
✅ Activation of growth factors (VEGF, EGF) promoting tissue regeneration.
✅ Improvement in the quality of the papillary dermis and reduction in stretch marks.
What happens during a microneedling session for stretch marks?
A consultation with a doctor is mandatory to check for any contraindications, explain the protocol with the recommended number of sessions, the instructions to follow before and after the session, and to provide a quote.
During the microneedling session, the skin is cleansed and an anaesthetic cream is applied to make the treatment comfortable. Once the skin is anaesthetised, the doctor disinfects the skin and then begins the treatment on the stretch marks, repeating the process several times if necessary.
2. Microneedling combined with fractional radiofrequency: targeted matrix regeneration
Fractional radiofrequency combines a deep thermal effect with microneedling.
Mechanisms of action:
✅ Induction of dermal remodelling through activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-13).
✅ Stimulation of neocollagenesis genes (COL1A1, COL3A1).
✅ Firming effect and homogenisation of skin texture.
Preventive Strategies and Healthy Living
💧 Optimisation of skin hydration to maintain dermal plasticity.
🏋️ Regular physical activity to improve microcirculation and prevent lipodystrophy.
🥗 Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in antioxidants (omega-3, polyphenols, vitamins A, C, E).
💆 Myofascial massage and França Renata-style lymphatic drainage to promote the resorption of interstitial stasis.
Conclusion
The scientific approach to treating cellulite and stretch marks optimises therapeutic results thanks to advanced technological solutions. Integrating aesthetic medicine into a comprehensive approach combining nutrition, physical activity and specific treatments guarantees effective and long-lasting results.
