Small dimples can make a big difference in how your skin looks and how you feel in shorts, swimsuits, or fitted dresses. Cellulite is a common condition (most women have it), and it isn’t a willpower issue or a simple “fat problem.” It’s structural. Fibrous connective tissues tug the skin down while fat cells push up, creating that dimpled appearance on the thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the upper arms. At Bonakdar Aesthetics in Newport Beach, we focus on options that reduce cellulite, improve skin texture, and help you feel confident in your own skin again.
This page breaks down what cellulite is, why creams rarely make a dent, and which cellulite treatments we offer in Orange County that actually target the root causes. You’ll find details on Contour Wave acoustic waves, VelaShape III (vacuum + massage rollers + infrared light + RF), and when injectable treatments may be considered for cellulite dimples caused by stubborn fibrous bands. We’ll also cover candidacy, what the procedure takes, expected downtime, and how many sessions are typically recommended to reach optimal results.
Think of cellulite as a tug-of-war below the skin’s surface. In the deeper layers, vertical septa bands (aka fibrous bands) pull the skin downward, while padded areas and fat cells push up. That push–pull, plus skin laxity from aging, hormones, or weight shifts, creates shadows and dimples. The primary structural issue isn’t “too much fat” alone, which is why weight loss and gym time don’t always smooth things out. Effective care focuses on the connective tissues and the skin itself—not just fat reduction.
Contour Wave uses acoustic pressure waves to address the appearance of cellulite in the treated area. These pulses support circulation and lymphatic flow, disrupt stiff connective tissue, and nudge collagen remodeling for firmer skin and better skin appearance. Sessions are quick, there’s minimal downtime, and most patients return to their usual activities right away. A series is typically recommended for significant results, especially on the thighs and buttocks.
How it feels: a firm, rhythmic percussion from a handheld device. You may notice mild discomfort over tighter spots—that usually eases as tissues respond. No local anesthesia or general anesthesia is required.
Protocol: We commonly suggest 10–12 sessions, twice weekly for six weeks for initial cellulite reduction; maintenance varies depending on lifestyle and goals.
VelaShape III is FDA-cleared for temporary cellulite reduction and circumference reduction. It pairs vacuum suction and massage rollers with infrared light and radiofrequency heat to the deeper layers. The combo warms tissue, improves micro-circulation, and encourages collagen production, helping tighten skin and soften that dimpled appearance.
How it feels: deep warming with a rolling, kneading sensation. Most describe it as very tolerable; mild redness can appear for a few hours.
Protocol: Series plans vary depending on the treatment area and baseline severity, typically consisting of 3–6 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart, followed by touch-ups.
Some cellulite dimples are caused by short, tethering bands. In select cases, injectable treatments that target those bands may be discussed. Historically, enzymes called collagenases were used to weaken septae and smooth select dimples. Availability of specific brands has changed over time; during your consult, we’ll review qualified and experienced provider options that fit your anatomy, goals, and timeline. If an injectable pathway is appropriate, we’ll explain numb-and-release techniques, expected bruising, and minimal downtime. For injectables, a small amount of local anesthesia is often used to minimize discomfort.
Not everyone needs needles. Many patients reach their desired results with device-based care alone, especially when skin laxity and texture are the main issues.
The best candidates want to reduce cellulite rather than chase unrealistic “airbrushed” skin. You’re a great fit if you:
If you’re dealing with severe cellulite plus pronounced laxity or major weight fluctuations, we’ll be candid about what cellulite treatments can—and can’t—do. On rare occasions, referrals for plastic surgery may be discussed when a surgical lift or excision would better address extensive laxity. Most Bonakdar patients, however, do well with combination non-surgical care.
(We keep expectations honest. The goal is a real-world improvement you can appreciate in photos and clothing—not a poreless, plastic finish.)
Every plan starts with a close look at your skin’s surface, dimples, and tissue tone. We map the treated areas, discuss the treatment option mix (Contour Wave, VelaShape III, and, when appropriate, injectable treatments), and outline session count and spacing. We’ll also talk through activities (e.g., strenuous activities vs. light workouts), skincare, and timing around travel or events. Your treatment plan is tailored—no templates.
For device sessions, you’ll arrive with clean skin. We mark the treatment area and begin. Most appointments run 20–45 minutes per region; larger or multiple areas can take a few hours end-to-end, including photos and post-care. Expect warmth, pressure, and deep kneading (VelaShape III) or rhythmic tapping (Contour Wave). Mild discomfort is possible over tighter bands but resolves quickly. With injectables (if used), we’ll apply topical or local anesthesia; the procedure takes only a few minutes per dimple.
When you leave, skin can look pink with light swelling that settles within hours to a couple of days. You can resume your normal routine right away; we just ask you to save vigorous, strenuous activities for the next day.
You’ll likely notice a subtle smoothing and a springier feel to your skin after the first couple of sessions, followed by clearer changes as the series progresses. Tissue remodeling continues between visits as circulation improves and collagen production ramps up. Many patients report significant results by the end of a full series, with improvements in skin texture and visible dimpling.
Our devices are FDA-cleared, and protocols are calibrated by an experienced provider team. We pace energy settings to your comfort and tissue response. Most patients complete a series of 3 to 12 sessions, depending on approach and cellulite severity. We’ll recommend scheduling at intervals that allow tissue recovery while keeping momentum toward your goals.
If you also want to address stubborn pockets of fat without surgery, Physiq (body contouring) can be paired with Contour Wave. Smoother texture plus better silhouette often delivers the firmer skin look patients want. We’ll sequence sessions so energy-based care complements muscle stimulation or fat reduction for optimal results.
If you’re considering cellulite treatment in Newport Beach, we’re here with advanced technology and practical plans. Book a consultation with Bonakdar Aesthetics to review your cellulite reduction options in Newport Beach, including VelaShape III and Contour Wave, and leave with a plan that fits your body, your schedule, and your comfort.
Call our Newport Beach office or request an appointment online. We’ll assess, explain, and treat—so you can achieve smoother, more confident skin with minimal downtime.
Weight changes don’t alter the fibrous bands that cause dimples. Staying at a stable weight helps, but structural therapies are what improve the appearance of cellulite.
Series length varies depending on severity and area. Expect 3–6 sessions with VelaShape III and 10–12 with Contour Wave for first-line plans. We’ll personalize that after your evaluation.
Very little. You may see mild discomfort, redness, or warmth in the treated area for a day. Most return to usual activities immediately; save high-intensity workouts for 24 hours.
Cellulite is chronic but manageable. After your series, periodic maintenance keeps tissues supple and dimples softer. Lifestyle and skin care extend your outcome.
Yes. Thighs, buttocks, and upper arms respond well. We’ll map your treatment areas during the consultation.
For severe cellulite, we may combine modalities or discuss whether a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure or surgical route would better meet your goals. You’ll get clear, honest guidance.
Contact Bonakdar Aesthetics for Cosmetic Dermatology and Skin Care in Newport Beach, Orange County, Palm Desert CA.
If you are interested in Contour Wave and Cellulite Treatment Newport Beach based Bonakdar Aesthetics is happy to assist our patients in learning more. Contact us to schedule an appointment. We welcome patients from Corona Del Mar and Orange County.
We are proud to inform you of Bonakdar Aesthetics’ Exclusive Appointment Scheduling Policy. This policy ensures that your appointments are exclusively booked for you alone, thus you will not experience long waits, nor be rushed during your appointment. A booking fee is required at the time you make your consultation or treatment appointment. This fee is refundable up until 72 hours of your appointment and is fully applied to your service that day.
20321 Irvine Avenue, Suite #F3, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Mon-Fri: 9am – 5pm
36943 Cook St. #104, Palm Desert, CA 92211
Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm
This information from Palm Desert & Newport Beach's skin care specialist, Dr. Monica Bonakdar is not a substitute for health care or advice. You must consult with a physician regarding any health questions you may have. *Individual results may vary. Photos and reviews do not guarantee outcomes and no prediction of outcome is implied.
