New Treatment Claims to Reduce Cellulite and Smooth Skin

— -- From firming lotions and invasive plastic surgery, some women try many methods to get rid of stubborn cellulite.

Brianne Edwards, of Los Angeles, says she runs up to 6 miles a day and eats right, but she has always struggled with cellulite, especially in her buttocks and thighs.

“I've had it, it seems like forever, and I just have not been able to find anything that works,” the 35-year-old said. “When you're always thinking about it, it kills your confidence.”

Edwards heard about a new treatment called Cellfina. The FDA-cleared, outpatient procedure, available nationwide, promises to improve the appearance of cellulite for at least one year.

Dr. Grant Stevens, a board certified plastic surgeon in Los Angeles, says his patients love the results.

Stevens said he understands that some people might be skeptical. So was he, until he saw the results.

“It's safe. It's easy. It's affordable and it really works,” he said.

Cellfina uses a very small blade to cut through the connective bands that pull down the skin and create a dimpled appearance. Once the fibers are released, Stevens said the skin bounces back and becomes smooth.

Before people spend $3,000 to $6,000 on the procedure, however, critics warn not to expect perfection.

“It’s not going to fix everything,” said Dr. Sharon Giese, a plastic surgeon in New York who said many people have cellulite “all over their butt and thighs.”

For her procedure, Edwards was given a local anesthetic. Then, one by one, Stevens released the fibers using a small blade.

“I can see the dimples actually releasing,” Stevens said.

Edwards even took a selfie during the procedure, which lasted for about 45 minutes. Stevens said Edwards might have some swelling and bruising, but he said she’ll be bikini-ready in just two weeks.

Edwards said the procedure went “really well.” She hopes it will get rid of her cellulite and bring back her confidence.