What is cellulite? Located in the hypodermis layer of the skin, cellulite
consists of deposits of fat and other material trapped in pockets of connective
tissue.  The fat cells are enlarged and often over-hydrated.   This condition is
responsible for the dimpling, “orange peel,” or “cottage cheese” appearance of
the skin.  Swollen cellulite occurs when water is trapped between the enlarged
fat cells.  This condition, besides being unsightly also has some health implications,
e.g., impaired circulation.  According to the Nurnberger Scale there are three
stages of cellulite:  Stage 1:  Dimpled appearance only with the pinch test; Stage
2:  Dimpled appearance standing up, but disappears when lying down; Stage 3:
Dimpled appearance when standing up and lying down.  Cellulite appears most
often in the inner knees, back of arms, lower abdomen, outer hips, upper inner
thighs, and buttocks.  CLICK HERE for detailed Skin Layer Diagram.

What causes cellulite? Although the basic physiology of cellulite has not
been clearly identified, hormonal fluctuations are thought to be the main culprit.
Hormonal fluctuations typically occur during puberty, pregnancy, and
perimenopause and menopause.  Birth control pills, as well as certain tumors,
medications, and health conditions may also be accompanied by hormonal
fluctuations.  It is believed that lack of exercise, excess consumption of saturated
fat and sugar, and poor hydration also contribute to cellulite.

Who gets cellulite? 90% of women get cellulite.  Heredity, cultural
background, and lifestyle also play a role.   Cellulite is much less common in men
because they have a different skin structure and different hormone levels.
Estrogen is the key hormone involved in cellulite formation.  When estrogen levels
fluctuate, the skin retains fluid, connective tissue hardens, and circulation is
decreased.  Because men have less estrogen than women, they do not experience
cellulite as much.    The unique architecture of women’s skin is another reason
why cellulite is primarily a woman’s issue.  The hypodermis in women permits more
fat storage than the male hypodermis.  

What is Endermologie? Endermologie is the first FDA-approved treatment
for cellulite.  Originally developed in Europe by LPG, its use is now widespread.  
Endermologie is a massage treatment administered with a machine. The Cellu M6
Keymodule’s treatment head uses motorized rollers and suction to reduce the
appearance of cellulite and contour the body.  No chemical substances, creams,
or gels are used.  Endermologie has many health benefits that result from the
increase in blood and lymph circulation that it produces.

How does Endermologie compare to other cellulite
treatments? Endermologie compares quite favorably with other cellulite
treatments.  Endermologie was the first FDA-approved treatment for cellulite and
remains the gold standard.  Physicians across the country regard it as the
treatment of choice for cellulite.  Endermologie is completely safe and non-
invasive, and is the most cost-effective cellulite treatment

How long has Endermologie been around? Endermologie was the
first FDA-approved treatment for cellulite.  It is currently practiced in over 80
countries and has been in the U.S. since 1996.  Endermologie was developed in
1986 by a French engineer.  When Louis Paul Guitay (LPG) was hospitalized with a
lower back injury he noticed that the effect of traditional physical therapy varied
with the time of day, therapist, etc.  In an effort to make treatments more
consistent, he invented a machine to do the job.  Later it was discovered that in
addition to the therapeutic benefits, Endermologie produced significant cosmetic
benefits, the most important of which was improving the appearance of cellulite.  

How does Endermologie work? Most of Endermologie’s benefits derive
from the great increase in circulation that it produces.  Blood circulation
increases by 400% for up to 6 hours and lymphatic drainage increases by 300% for
up to 3 hours after a treatment.  By gently lifting and rolling the skin, the
Keymodule increases blood and lymph circulation thereby eliminating toxins.  It
squeezes excess fluid out of the over-hydrated cells, and restores fat cells to
their normal shape, thus minimizing dimpling.  Excess fluid is dumped into the
lymphatic system and excreted through normal body processes.  Endermologie
stimulates the production of collagen and elastin that in turn produces a skin tone
that looks healthier and rejuvenated.  In addition, Endermologie smoothes the
surface of the skin by exfoliating, and by softening the connective tissue.

What kind of machine is used? The Cellu M6 Keymodule is the most
powerful machine for the treatment of cellulite.  Manufactured by LPG, the
machine has three different treatment heads that are used to produce various
cosmetic and therapeutic benefits.  The Keymodule’s small hand-held motorized
treatment head with specially designed rollers is guided over the body by the
Endermologie technician in performing the treatment.  

How does it feel? Does it hurt? The treatment should not be painful
under any circumstances.  The practitioner will carefully listen to and watch for
reactions and adjust the intensity of the treatment accordingly.  The sensation is
similar to a deep massage and most people find it quite pleasant, reporting a
feeling of relaxation and an increase in energy.  

Are there any side effects? On occasion, minor temporary bruising may
result.

Is Endermologie safe for everybody? No; there are some
conditions for which Endermologie is not recommended. Those who are pregnant,
have a circulatory or vascular disease, blood clots, phlebitis, or unexplained calf
pain, an infectious progressive disease, or active cancer should not receive
Endermologie.  Anyone taking an anti-coagulant, e.g., Coumadin, Warfarin requires
a doctor’s note before Endermologie may be performed.  However, people with
conditions such as hernia, varicose veins, open sores, injection sites, or skin
tumors may still receive Endermologie by having the technician avoid those areas
during treatment.  This list may not be comprehensive, so, if in doubt, consult
your physician.

Will Endermologie get rid of all my cellulite? Does it work
for everyone? Results vary by individual, but the vast majority of people
report significant improvement.  Endermologie is effective on both slim women as
well as full figured ones.  Endermologie reduces the appearance of cellulite; it may
not eliminate all cellulite.  

Can Endermologie be used instead of diet and exercise? .
Endermologie is not a replacement for diet and exercise, but should be used along
with diet and exercise for optimal results.  Inadequate nutrition and poor lifestyle
tend to worsen the appearance of cellulite.  Endermologie complements a healthy
diet and exercise program.  CLICK HERE for detailed Skin Layer Diagram.

If I just exercise more and eat right, will my cellulite go
away? Endermologie targets cellulite that resides in the hypodermis layer of the
skin.  This skin layer is affected mostly by hormones and minimally by diet and
exercise.  Cellulite generally does not respond to diet and exercise.  Therefore,
this approach is not an effective means for cellulite reduction.  Endermologie
complements a healthy diet and exercise program.

Is there any proof that Endermologie really works?
Endermologie is FDA-approved to improve the appearance of cellulite, improve
local blood circulation, relieve delayed onset muscle soreness, relieve minor
muscle aches and pains, and relieve muscle spasms.  It was the first such
treatment approved for cellulite in the U.S.  Clinical studies from UCLA, Vanderbilt
University, and many European universities have proven the results.  For more
information on these studies, please visit LPG’s website http://www.cosire-lpg.
com.   Its effectiveness has been demonstrated over the past twelve years in
thousands of case studies from around the world.  This was enough proof for the
FDA to approve the claim that it temporarily reduces the appearance of cellulite.  
The FDA is renowned for its strict scientific standards worldwide.  

How long does it take to see results? Individual results vary.  Some
people start to see results immediately while others must wait until after several
treatments.  On average, our clients generally notice results after four treatments.

How many sessions are required for optimum results?
Individual results vary.  The recommended treatment regimen is 14-21 sessions,
followed by regular maintenance treatments.  The best results will be achieved
with 21 sessions followed by one or two maintenance sessions per month.  At
home treatments with Well Box will further enhance the results.

How many treatments can I have in a week? You can receive as
many as three Endermologie treatments per week.  Due to the substantial increase
in circulation that results, treatments cannot be given on two consecutive days.  
Try to put about 48 hours in between sessions.

What if I can't come that often? Many people come once or twice a
week.  You can still get great results, but it will take longer to see them.  
Scheduling Endermologie sessions 2 or 3 times weekly for at least the first 14
treatments is ideal.  

How long do the results last? Are the results permanent?
Individual results vary.  Generally results last for several months up to a few years,
and may vary with age, lifestyle, and hormonal fluctuations.  Once or twice a
month maintenance sessions assure lasting results.  Giving yourself treatments at
home with Well Box will also help maintain results, as will moderate exercise, good
nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle.

Can you just work on my problem areas? In a 35-minute session
we treat the arms, back, front and back of thighs, calves, abdomen, and
buttocks.  This full-body treatment triggers a systemic action that benefits the
entire body, including the target area.  If you have areas of special concern, let
your practitioner know and she will spend more time there.
jh
After the initial regimen of 21 treatments, how do I
maintain the results? Consistently coming for professional treatments
once or twice a month will maintain the results achieved during the initial 21.  
Giving yourself treatments at home with Well Box will also help maintain results, as
will moderate exercise, good nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle.

Does Endermologie produce weight loss?Endermologie does not
produce weight loss, but it does contour the body resulting in a loss of inches.  It
is common for people to comment, “You look like you’ve lost weight,” after
beginning Endermologie treatments.  Because it increases circulation and
detoxifies the body, Endermologie can be used in conjunction with a weight loss
program to improve and accelerate results.

Why must a body suit be worn during the treatment? The
body suit serves several purposes, including those of hygiene, comfort, and
modesty.  It protects the skin from excess friction, and allows for deeper work.   
The body suit enables the treatment head to glide more easily over the body,
protects the skin and hair, and provides warmth.  It insures optimal hygiene and
modesty, as there is not direct contact with the skin, and the body suit is
personal and washable.  

What is the difference between liposuction and
Endermologie? Liposuction gets rid of the fat and Endermologie addresses
the cellulite.  Liposuction is the most effective surgical procedure for body
contouring and involves the removal of fat from the superficial reserve and deep
fat layers of the skin.  Liposuction is not typically performed in the hypodermis
layer where cellulite resides, due to swelling, scarring, and bruising.  So,
liposuction is not the treatment of choice for cellulite.  Endermologie
complements liposuction.  Endermologie is recommended by many plastic surgeons
to condition the skin before liposuction, and post-surgery to target the cellulite.  
Pre-liposuction, six treatments are recommended.  Endermologie should stop 48
hours prior to surgery.  Post-surgery recommendations are three treatments per
week during the first 30 days, then two times per week after 30 days until
maintenance.  CLICK HERE for detailed Skin Layer Diagram.

How long do I have to wait after liposuction or after a
tummy tuck to receive Endermologie? Wait until the compressive
garments come off, normally 4-6 weeks.

Is there anything I can do to enhance the results? Yes, there
is.  Using Well Box for at- home treatments will improve results.  Drinking at least
eight 8-oz. glasses of water daily, good nutrition, moderate exercise, and
minimizing stress will also help.  For those on maintenance, being very consistent
in coming for professional treatments once or twice a month is important.

Can Endermologie be used on the face? Well Box has two
treatment heads for the face that stimulate collagen production and increase
circulation.  It will tighten and tone skin, diminish lines and wrinkles, and treat sun
damage.

Besides reducing cellulite, what else does Endermologie
do? Endermologie is FDA-approved only to improve the appearance of cellulite,
improve local blood circulation, relieve delayed onset muscle soreness, relieve
minor muscle aches and pains, and relieve muscle spasms.  However, many other
anecdotal benefits, both cosmetic and therapeutic have been noted, such as soft,
full skin, and loss of inches.  It has been observed to alleviate symptoms of
fibromyalgia, diabetes, and lymphedema.  It is thought to prevent spider veins.  
Endermologie has been effective in draining sinuses, improving the appearance of
scar tissue, and decreasing water retention.  It increases flexibility and has been
used to treat sports injuries.  Endermologie helps any condition that involves
fibrosis of the connective tissue.  It produces a sense of well-being and relaxation,
while at the same time energizing.

What areas of the body are treated? A full-body treatment covers
the back, arms, abdomen, hips and thighs, buttocks, and calves.

Who is performing the treatment? All Endermologie practitioners at
Your Well Being are fully trained and certified by LPG.  They successfully
completed the Endermologie training offered by LPG, passing both a written and
practical exam.  They are also certified health professionals currently working in
the medical field.

Does insurance ever pay for Endermologie? In cases where a
physician prescribes it for therapeutic reasons, and it is included in a treatment
plan signed by a physical therapist, Endermologie may be covered by an insurance
plan.  The applicable CPT codes are as follows:  97124 Therapeutic massage; 97250
Myofascial Release, 97112 Neruomuscular Re-education, 97265 Joint mobilization.

What is Well Box? Well Box is Endermologie equipment for home use.  It is a
smaller version of the Keymodule machine that is used in giving professional
treatments.

How does Well Box work? Like professional Endermologie treatments, it
uses suction and rolling.  However, it is applied directly to the skin; no body suit is
needed.  You may give yourself a treatment lying down or standing up.  Some
women do it while watching T.V.

What are the benefits of Well Box? It enhances the benefits
received from professional treatments (reduces cellulite, increases circulation,
improves skin texture, relaxes muscles).  It does not replace professional
treatments, but can improve results.

Who should use Well Box? Everyone should use Well Box.  It is especially
useful when you travel or have to miss an appointment for other reasons.  It is
strongly recommended when you are on maintenance, to supplement your
monthly professional treatment.

What else can Well Box do? It may be used on the face to tighten skin,
diminish lines and wrinkles, and to rehabilitate sun damage.

How often can I use Well Box? Well Box may be used every day.  The
recommended treatment time is six minutes per area.

How many levels of intensity does Well Box have? 6 levels

Can I give myself a good treatment at home with Well
Box? Yes, it comes with a long extendable hose.

Does Well Box replace professional treatments? No, it’s not as
powerful.  If you just used Well Box without receiving any professional treatments,
you could eventually produce the same results if you used it consistently, but it
would take a long time.

How many treatment heads does Well Box have? Five heads in
total,  two for the face and three for the body.  The different heads are designed
for covering areas of different sizes.

What supplies are needed for Well Box? Just filters.  Your Well
Box comes with 20 filters that should last for quite a while.  You can prolong the
use of filters if you shower beforehand.  Replacement filters currently cost  $1.25
each.

How do I order a Well Box? You can place an order now with Visa or
Mastercard by calling 630-234-4390, or your Endermologie practitioner can take
your order when you come for a treatment.  There are no shipping or handling
charges if picked up at our St. Charles location, but sales tax does apply.

Can I order a Well Box even if I do not get Endermologie
treatments at Your Well Being? Yes, you can.  Just call 630-234-4390  
and we would be happy to assist you.

What type of instructions is included with Well Box? An
instruction manual is included.  An instructional DVD is currently under
development.  

Is there a warranty on the Well Box? A 2-year warranty covers parts
and labor.  There is also a 30-day return period after purchase.  Returned Well
Boxes should be sent directly to LPG which charges a 15% restocking fee.

What do I do if the Well Box does not operate properly?
Call 1-888-WELL-BOX.  Technical support will be provided.  If the problem is not
resolved on the phone, arrangements will be made for FedEx to pick up the Well
Box.  It will be repaired and returned to you within three days.

How much does Well Box cost? $1,899 plus sales tax.  No shipping
charges apply if you pick it up from our St. Charles location.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
630.234.4390
Your Well Being Endermologie® Center
Your Well Being
St. Charles, IL
630.234.4390
Skin Layer Diagram

Contact Your Well Being to learn more about how Endermologie services can provide cellulite reduction treatment.  Serving the
Chicago area since 2003, our Endermologie center is dedicated to helping you look your best.

Copyright © 2007 Your Well Being
In The News

    Dr. Mauro Romita, M.D., a New York City plastic surgeon
    comments, "Liposuction will not
    treat cellulite," and adds,
    "Endermologie achieves the most
    noticeable results."



    "After testing the top cellulite
    busters out there, we’ve found
    that the state-of-the-art LPG One
    system offers some of the best
    results...This technological
    method can drastically reduce
    cellulite and even eliminate the
    unsightly evil...the entire process
    takes little more effort than
    applying a miracle cream, it is the
    perfect weapon to use against
    cellulite...it has proven to create
    some of the most visible results."  
    - Best Body, May/June 2005



    "Endermologie is...now one of the
    top cellulite procedures at doctor’s
    offices and spas... A study done in
    the Journal of Aesthetic Plastic
    Surgery by Robert Ersek, M.D., a
    plastic surgeon...found that all 22
    subjects who did at least 14
    treatments over the course of a
    year lost ½ inch or more in each
    thigh.  And Eserk claims that
    improvements will remain for
    months."  Health magazine,
    January/February 2005




    "Endermologie comes out on top:  
    it seems to decrease swelling
    caused by fluid retention that may
    make cellulite look worse," states
    Dr. Fodor, leading plastic surgeon
    in Los Angeles.  Self magazine,
    March 2005




    "Endermologie erases cellulite and
    takes off inches.  The bottom line:
    It can work." Glamour, April 2005



    "Motorized rollers...improve
    circulation, flush excess fluids,
    improve collagen production so
    skin is smoother...Endermologie
    feels a lot like getting a massage –
    which I loved...you have to put on
    a full body stocking...it was oddly
    chic, like a Donna Karan catsuit
    circa 1994."  Redbook, August 2005




    Of post-pregnancy women, Amy B.
    Lewis, MD, New York City
    dermatologist is cited as saying,
    "no good studies show that the
    creams claiming to minimize
    cellulite actually work," however,
    she states, "Endermologie can
    help...by increasing lymph drainage
    ...American Baby, May 2005