Can adding a simple skin snip boost cellulite treatment?
NCT ID NCT02427698
First seen Jul 01, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026 · Updated 1 time
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.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology
Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.