Endermologie is a non-invasive technique for reducing the appearance of cellulite. Cellulite often shows up as dimpling on the skin, sometimes called the cottage cheese look, even in those who are fit. The look of cellulite does not necessary diminish with weight loss and liposuction fails to address this top layer of fat under the skin.

French plastic surgeons developed the techniques used in endermologie. The process is now patented in the US as well. Endermologie uses rollers that often feel like deep tissue massage, over problem areas of the skin. At the same time, suction is used to redistribute the skin and remove dimpling. Those opting for endermologie usually need about 14 to 28 45-minutes sessions to see results and must also have monthly treatments afterwards to maintain the smooth skin look.

Endermologie works best on candidates who are fit, and who are usually between the ages of 30 to 45. Those who do not regularly exercise may see only temporary results and those over 30 pounds (13.60 kg) overweight tend not to benefit from the procedure. Beyond regular exercise, drinking water on the day of procedures helps yield a better result. Doctors frequently ask patients to drink eight glasses of water prior to the procedure, and to maintain this habit daily afterwards.

Side effects are minimal and may involve bruising or soreness in the areas treated. Many patients like the feel of endermologie and find this temporary soreness a small price to pay. Those who are extremely sensitive to pain may find the pressure exerted by rollers very uncomfortable.

Price of endermologie, when adding up all sessions, is somewhat comparable to one session of liposuction. Liposuction of a small area tends to cost about 2000 US dollars (USD) or more. An endermologie session costs about 90 USD. The minimum 14 visits and monthly follow-ups tend to be slightly under 2000 US dollars. However, those needing more treatments may ultimately pay more than a single liposuction session. Proponents of endermologie feel the procedure is still economically sound, and since it addresses an area which liposuction tends not to resolve, it is an excellent treatment. Since the procedure is cosmetic, it usually is not covered by health insurance.

However, if one does not maintain monthly maintenance sessions, endermologie will not permanently reduce the dimpled effect of cellulite. The effect is temporary and must be maintained. Those who do not plan to maintain the look may waste their money on initial endermologie sessions. The cellulite in reality is not gone and will come back.