Nearly 90% of women have cellulite. Even though it is so common, many women are extremely bothered by it. We often hear women telling us that they think it is their fault or that they did not realize that there are treatment options available.
A key factor of cellulite are Septa. Septa are fibrous bands that tether the skin to the muscle below. Some are good and help support the skin, but some stiffen or shrink over time and lead to the dimples we see with cellulite.
At MD Brothers, board-certified cosmetic surgeons Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi specialize in advanced cellulite treatments using the latest minimally invasive techniques. With their extensive training in aesthetic medicine and membership in The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, our doctors provide expert care tailored to help you achieve smoother, more confident skin.
Why Does Cellulite Develop?
Cellulite is one of the most common cosmetic concerns among women, affecting nearly 90% at some point in their lives. Contrary to popular belief, it is not caused by being overweight or out of shape. In fact, many people who maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly still experience cellulite.
Cellulite develops when fibrous connective bands, called septa, pull the skin downward while fat beneath the skin pushes upward. This combination creates the dimples and uneven texture most commonly seen on the thighs and buttocks. Genetics, hormones, skin thickness, and the natural aging process all influence how noticeable cellulite becomes.
Because cellulite develops beneath the surface of the skin, creams, massage devices, and exercise alone typically cannot release the connective bands responsible for the dimpling. Understanding the underlying cause is an important first step in choosing the most effective treatment.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Avéli?
Avéli is designed for women who are bothered by cellulite dimples on the buttocks or thighs and are looking for a long-lasting treatment without major surgery. The best candidates are generally in good overall health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations about their results.
It’s important to remember that Avéli specifically treats cellulite. If your primary concern is loose skin after weight loss or pockets of excess fat, another treatment—or a combination of treatments—may provide better improvement. During your consultation, Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi carefully evaluate your skin quality, body contours, and treatment goals to determine whether Avéli is the right solution or whether another minimally invasive procedure would better address your concerns.
Every treatment plan at MD Brothers is personalized because no two patients experience cellulite in exactly the same way.
Can Avéli Be Combined with Other Body Contouring Treatments?
Yes. Many patients have more than one cosmetic concern contributing to the appearance of their thighs or buttocks. While Avéli treats the connective bands responsible for cellulite dimples, it does not remove unwanted fat or tighten loose skin.
For patients seeking more comprehensive body contouring, Avéli may be incorporated into a customized treatment plan that includes procedures such as VASER liposuction for stubborn fat reduction, BodyTite or Renuvion for skin tightening, or other minimally invasive contouring procedures offered at MD Brothers.
Combining treatments allows your providers to address multiple concerns in an overall body-contouring plan, creating smoother contours while maintaining natural-looking proportions. During your consultation, Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi will discuss your priorities and recommend the combination of treatments best suited to your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Aveli Cellulite Treatment
It is important to distinguish cellulite from other concerns like laxity or localized fat, which we can talk you through during a consultation in our office. You should also know that cellulite is not your fault (genetics and hormones play a role)!
- Cellulite is NOT laxity (loose ripples, loss of elasticity, opposite of tight)
- Cellulite is NOT fat (pockets that poke out)
- Cellulite is NOT poor skin quality (thin skin, orange peel)
MD Brothers uses Avéli™, a minimally invasive device to treat the dimples associated with cellulite on the buttocks and thighs.
Avéli™ is the first and only cellulite device that allows your provider to identify and release the specific bands under the skin (called Septa) that cause cellulite dimples with real-time confirmation that he treated what he planned to treat.
AvéliTM can be performed in a single in-office visit under local anesthesia or along with other procedures as part of a larger treatment plan.
If you are an appropriate patient, Dr. Nael Gharbi or Dr. Shazel Gharbi can perform the Avéli™ procedure in a single in-office visit under local anesthesia, or he will often include the cellulite procedure with Avéli™ as part of a larger treatment plan. It is important to talk to your provider about your goals and expectations, so he can walk you through the benefits and risks associated with the different options to develop the best overall treatment plan for you.
Patients should be aware of the recovery associated with this procedure, some mild pain and weeping and oozing of clear or pink fluid may occur for the first 24-48 hours as well as the likely need to wear a non-medical compression legging (e.g. SpanxTM) for the first few days/ week to help reduce bruising and swelling. Some bruising and tenderness are to be expected.
Downtime: Most patients returned to normal activities within one day of the procedure.
Recovery: Patients may experience mild pain within the first 24 hours. Bruising and tenderness to the touch may also occur, which typically resolve within 30 days. Some patients reported small areas of firmness, usually not visible or painful, that typically resolve in a couple of months.
Procedure duration: Approximately 1 hour
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose MD Brothers for Cellulite Treatment
At MD Brothers, Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi bring board-certified expertise and years of experience in cosmetic medicine to every Avéli treatment. Our practice is built on precision, artistry, and patient-centered care. We use the most advanced technology available to deliver natural-looking results with minimal downtime. Our doctors take the time to understand your unique concerns and goals, creating personalized treatment plans designed specifically for you. When you choose MD Brothers, you’re choosing Chicago’s trusted leaders in aesthetic excellence.
Get Started with Aveli Cellulite Treatment Today
Experience smoother, firmer skin with Aveli Cellulite Treatment. Our board-certified cosmetic surgeons are ready to guide you towards your desired aesthetic results, tailored just for you. Contact MD Brothers today at (312) 416-6172 to schedule your consultation and discover how we can help you achieve the confidence you deserve.