Aveli® Cellulite Treatment
Many women struggle with cellulite despite being at a healthy weight and staying active. Those small dimples that appear on the thighs and buttocks are caused by natural structures beneath the skin, not by lifestyle choices alone. At Richmond Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Neil J. Zemmel offers Avéli®, a minimally invasive treatment designed to reduce the appearance of cellulite by addressing its root cause. This procedure can be completed in a single in-office visit and provides long-lasting improvement for many patients.
What Is Avéli®?
Avéli® is an FDA-cleared treatment for reducing the appearance of cellulite in the buttocks and thighs. It works by targeting the fibrous bands under the skin, called septa, that pull the skin down and create dimpling. Using a light-guided handheld device, your provider can identify each band and carefully release it. Avéli® is unique because it allows for real-time confirmation that each targeted septa has been fully released — giving both the provider and patient confidence in the treatment process.
How Does Avéli® Work?
During the procedure, you will receive local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. A small incision is made so that the Avéli® device can be inserted under the skin. The device’s light helps the provider locate the exact bands responsible for dimpling. Once found, these bands are released, which allows the skin to smooth out naturally over time. Only the septa that are contributing to visible cellulite are treated, preserving surrounding tissue and minimizing unnecessary disruption.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Avéli®?
Avéli® is designed for adult women who have visible cellulite dimples on their thighs or buttocks and are looking for a long-term reduction in their appearance. The treatment specifically targets dimpling — it is not intended to address skin laxity, uneven skin texture, or pockets of excess fat. For patients who also want to address stubborn fat deposits, Avéli® can sometimes be combined with body contouring treatments such as liposuction for a more comprehensive result. The best way to determine if you are a candidate is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zemmel, who can evaluate your concerns and discuss the most appropriate treatment options.
What Happens During an Avéli® Procedure?
An Avéli® session typically lasts about an hour, including preparation and anesthesia. The treatment is performed in-office, and most patients are able to go home shortly afterward. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, it does not require general anesthesia or an overnight stay. Dr. Zemmel uses the device to address each targeted dimple, confirming release as he works. Once the procedure is complete, a small bandage is placed over the incision site, and you will receive instructions for at-home care.
What Can I Expect During Recovery from Avéli®?
Recovery after Avéli® is usually quick. Many patients return to their normal routines within 24 to 48 hours, although some choose to take it easy for a few days. Mild soreness, bruising, or tenderness to the touch is common and generally resolves within 30 days. Some firmness or swelling in the treated area can also occur and usually improves over the next few weeks. Wearing a compression garment, such as fitted leggings, for one to two weeks may help reduce swelling. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first couple of weeks to allow for proper healing.
When will I see results from Avéli®?
Initial improvement can often be seen once swelling and bruising have diminished, usually within a few weeks. Most patients notice smoother skin and fewer dimples by one month after treatment, with results continuing to improve for several months. In clinical studies, patients maintained a visible reduction in cellulite for at least one year following a single Avéli® session.
How Long Do Avéli® Results Last?
Clinical data support long-term results from a single Avéli® treatment, with benefits lasting through at least one year for most participants. For women who have experienced changes to their body after pregnancy, Avéli® may also be included as part of a mommy makeover plan to smooth and refine the appearance of the thighs or buttocks in addition to breast and abdominal procedures.
As with any procedure, individual results vary based on factors like skin quality, lifestyle, and natural aging. While Avéli® does not prevent new cellulite from forming, it does address the existing septa responsible for current dimpling, which means the treated areas should remain improved long-term.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects with Avéli®?
As with any medical procedure, Avéli® carries some risks. The most common side effects include mild pain or discomfort within the first day, temporary bruising, and tenderness in the treated area. Some patients experience temporary firmness or small areas of numbness, which typically resolve on their own within a few months. Dr. Zemmel will review all possible side effects and answer any questions during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Why Choose Richmond Aesthetic Surgery for Avéli®?
Dr. Zemmel is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in both surgical and minimally invasive body contouring procedures. He takes time to understand each patient’s unique concerns and tailors treatments to their needs. For those considering Avéli®, Dr. Zemmel offers a detailed evaluation and honest recommendations to ensure the chosen approach aligns with both goals and anatomy. His focus is on safety, precision, and creating results that help patients feel more confident in their skin.
Learn if Avéli® Is Right for You
If you are ready to explore your options for treating cellulite, the first step is to schedule a consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Zemmel will examine the areas of concern, discuss your goals, and explain whether Avéli® or another treatment may be the best fit for you. He will also outline what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure, so you can make a decision with confidence.
To learn more about Avéli® cellulite treatment or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Neil J. Zemmel, contact Richmond Aesthetic Surgery today.
