Can adding a simple skin snip boost cellulite treatment?

NCT ID NCT02427698

First seen Jul 01, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether freezing fat cells (cryolipolysis) works better for cellulite when combined with a minor procedure that cuts the fibrous bands pulling down the skin (subcision). Fifteen healthy women with moderate to severe cellulite on both outer thighs will receive one treatment on each thigh: cryolipolysis alone on one side and cryolipolysis plus subcision on the other. A blinded dermatologist will rate cellulite severity before treatment and three months later to see which approach reduces cellulite more.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

CoolSculpting device (cryolipolysis) and subcision needle

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a more effective combination treatment for reducing cellulite appearance.

What could go wrong

This is a very small early study with only 15 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The combination procedure involves skin puncturing, which carries risks like bruising or infection.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cellulite cellulitis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology

    Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States