Dr. Hootan Daneshmand

QWO Injectables for Cellulite Treatment

Bakersfield Cellulite Treatment

Contrary to popular belief, cellulite isn’t a telltale sign of an unhealthy lifestyle. For most people, cellulite simply results from the way the fibrous bands of connective tissue in their skin interact with the natural fat cells. It is nothing to be ashamed of, but many people still feel the sting of the stigma surrounding it. Maybe you’ve tried diet and exercise already, then turned to other skin smoothening treatment options. If those haven’t quite shown the results you want, it may be time to explore QWO – the first FDA approved injectable cellulite treatment.

At the Silhouette Plastic Surgery Institute, we offer a wide array of options to help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted. Whether you want to treat cellulite, get rid of excess skin, or explore body contouring in Orange County, we have options for you. To schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Hootan Daneshmand, please call 949-359-8397. You can also fill out our online intake form to learn more.

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What is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a highly common condition of the skin which causes a dimpled and lumpy appearance of the flesh. It is far more common in women than men, and usually affects them more noticeably. It’s very common for people to try various techniques in order to get rid of it, as smooth skin in all areas of the body is a desirable beauty trait. You might hear some describe cellulite as the look of “cottage cheese” or “orange peel skin.”

Common approaches for attempting to treat cellulite include weight loss, diet and exercise, massages, topical treatments and topical creams. These so-called “solutions” have mixed rates of success. Luckily, there are medical cellulite treatments that can improve skin texture and provide the desired results.

What Causes Cellulite?

Unfortunately, we don’t know much about what actually causes cellulite. The fibrous bands of connective tissue in the body which connect the skin to the muscle underneath also encapsulate the fat cells. When these fat cells build up, they push against the skin. The tougher fibrous bands of connective tissue do the opposite, pulling the skin downward. This results in the skin dimpling associated with cellulite.

Additionally, we know that hormones are an important factor in cellulite development. Genetics usually dictate your skin texture, as well as your body type. Other less important factors, like muscle tone and weight, also affect cellulite fat. However, it’s important to remember that even very healthy and fit individuals can still develop cellulite.

Women are much more likely to have noticeable cellulite than men. In fact, most women will develop some form of cellulite after they reach puberty. This is generally because of the fat distribution in women.

They tend to have more fat in areas such as the hips, thighs, and buttocks. These are already common areas for skin dimpling from cellulite. We also see cellulite dimples more often as people age, as the skin laxity increases.

Most Common Areas for Cellulite

  • Thighs
  • Buttocks
  • Breasts
  • Lower abdomen
  • Upper arms

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QWO Cellulite Injections

QWO is an injectable cellulite treatment formula that contains two enzymes intended to break down collagen molecules. It is an FDA approved injectable that can help with even moderate to severe cellulite.

When your doctor injects QWO into a certain area, it begins the process of enzymatic subcision and remodeling (ESR). The primary medication in QWO is called collagenase clostridium histolyticum, or CCH. It breaks down Types 1 and 3 collagen in specific areas to create new, better-looking skin.

Is QWO Safe?

QWO is currently approved to reduce cellulite by the FDA. It was put through its paces in terms of testing, and if administered correctly in the right candidates, is safe to use. Studies involving hundreds of patients and thousands of treatments were conducted in order to come to this conclusion.

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How Does QWO Work?

QWO works by targeting the fibrous septae (fibrous bands of connective tissue). As the skin ages, it thins, using both volume and skin laxity. The fat cells protrude, pushing against the skin. The collagen-rich fibrous septae thicken, pulling the skin down as the fat cells push out. This creates cellulite-associated skin depressions.

QWO injections are made of an injectable formulation consisting of enzymes, called collagenases. These enzymes target the collagen-rich structures beneath the skin. It works to degrade collagen molecules in the fibrous bands, redistributing the body fat. It also stimulates the growth of new collagen in the area. Most patients need multiple treatments and injections, especially if they have moderate to severe cellulite.

What Is the QWO Procedure Like?

Your doctor will generally examine the area you wish to treat while you remain standing. Standing positions are best for treatment evaluation, as the dimpling is more evident that way. It’s important not to engage the muscles during this evaluation. Your doctor will then use a surgical marker to outline the dimples in the treatment area.

Once they have marked the treatment area and taken photos to compare the results to, you will lie down on a table. QWO is then injected into the areas to be treated, into the fat tissue. It is unlikely that your doctor will use a numbing agent, as these injections feel like a small pinch. QWO injections are limited to 6 or 12 injections per area of treatment.

This equals a maximum of either 12 or 24 injections per visit. The procedure as a whole usually takes no longer than 10 minutes. As with any other cosmetic injectable treatments, you will remain prone for at least 5 minutes.

QWO Cellulite Injections Recovery

Most patients experience mild soreness, as if they finished a rigorous workout. This should dissipate over the next few days. It’s important to avoid exercising the area that was treated for a few days. You may feel knots around the injection site, but this is a normal side effect. Any knots or nodules should fade over a week or so.

Most patients experience at least some injection site bruising. It is usually worse after the first round of injections, and decreases with each subsequent round of treatment. Most patients do not experience severe pain in their treated skin.

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Who is a Good Candidate for Cellulite Injections?

As with other cellulite treatments and cosmetic procedures, there are factors that make someone a better or worse candidate than others. These injections are most effective in the buttocks of adult women, and they are FDA approved for this specific use. More specifically, the product is not necessarily recommended for the treatment of skin laxity.

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and determine whether or not you are allergic to collagenase. If you are allergic or if you have an active infection in the area, you may not receive QWO cellulite treatment.

Notify your Dr. Daneshmand of the following, if applicable to you:

  • You have had an allergic reaction to QWO cellulite treatment in the past.
  • You have issues with excessive bleeding.
  • Because it is not known what QWO may or may not do to unborn babies, you should notify your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.
  • You are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Again, we do not yet know if QWO passes into the breastmilk.

You should also list out any and all medications you take, including vitamins and herbal supplements. It is especially important to notify us of any blood thinners you may be taking.

What Are the Potential Risks of QWO Cellulite Treatment?

Most cosmetic procedures, including injectables and laser treatments, have risks.

The following are some potential risks to be aware of before undergoing QWO cellulite removal:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Hives
  • Low blood pressure
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swollen face
  • Fainting or dizziness
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Skin ulcers
  • Bruising around the injection site
  • Itching
  • Discoloration
  • Warmth and swelling
  • Pain at the injection site

When Can I Expect Results From My QWO Injections?

Some patients begin to see results around three weeks after the procedure. We recommend at least three treatments with approximately three weeks between each treatment session. The QWO cellulite treatment effectively restructures the cellulite formation in the area. As a result, QWO allows you to permanently reduce cellulite as long as you maintain the proper diet and exercise.

How Much Does QWO Cost?

This heavily depends on how extensive your treatment is, or how many dimples you decide to treat. The best way to gain an idea of the potential cost of your cellulite improvement is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Daneshmand. Consultations will allow you to understand whether you have mild cellulite or moderate to severe cellulite. Once you and your doctor determine this, they can provide you with a cost estimate of treating severe buttocks cellulite.

How Long Does QWO Last?

This revolutionary and FDA approved treatment breaks down those fibrous tissue bands, permanently reducing cellulite. For some patients, it is a permanent solution. For others, it only temporarily reduces cellulite. However, this “temporary” solution usually lasts at least one year.

Because there are currently no other comparable treatment options, QWO is likely to revolutionize the treatment of moderate to severe cellulite. Clinical trials indicate that it is highly effective and that other injectables only temporarily reduce cellulite.

How Many Treatments Do I Need?

We recommend at least three treatment sessions, spaced three weeks apart. On either buttock, you may choose either 6 or 12 injections, with a maximum of 24 total injections for both buttocks.

Where Can I Have QWO Injected?

Currently, the FDA has only approved this product for use in the buttocks of adult women. It is not approved for men or for other areas of the body. It’s possible that this product may be approved for more extensive use in the future.

Does QWO Really Work for Cellulite?

Yes. QWO allows patients to smooth contour irregularity, treat dimples AKA cellulite, and achieve smoother skin in a matter of a few weeks. Clinical trials indicate that it is both safe and effective. Speak with your cosmetic surgeon during a consultation to ensure that this product is right for you.

QWO Alternatives

If you or your doctor determines that QWO isn’t quite right for you, fear not. There are plenty of other options available, including the following.

What Other Procedures Can I Combine QWO With?

Orange County Cellulite Treatments

If you struggle with feeling confident in tight or revealing clothing, QWO injectables for buttocks cellulite might be the treatment for you. It’s important to feel comfortable in your own skin, and the professionals at the Silhouette Plastic Surgery Institute are here to help. Not only do we offer surgical treatment options for a wide variety of issues, we also offer noninvasive options for those who don’t feel comfortable going under the knife. For more information about how we can help, contact the best cosmetic surgeons in Orange County today. Call our office at 949-359-8397 or fill out our online intake form to schedule an appointment.

Our practice is based on honesty, integrity, and a dedication to excellence in plastic surgery.