Cellulite can feel frustrating because it works against the effort you’ve put in to stay in shape. You may notice dimpling on your thighs or buttocks that seems to persist no matter how consistent you are with exercise, hydration or skincare. It can influence how you feel in certain clothing, how comfortable you are at the pool or gym and how confident you feel in your skin day to day.

At The Gillian Institute, Dr. Kimberly Short understands that cellulite is not simply a surface concern. It is structural, personal and often resistant to traditional approaches. With a thoughtful, individualized approach, she helps patients in Indianapolis explore solutions that address the root cause of cellulite for smoother, more refined skin.

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is a common skin condition that appears as a dimpled or uneven texture, most often on the thighs, buttocks and sometimes the abdomen. It develops beneath the skin’s surface, where fibrous connective bands pull downward while fat pushes upward. This interaction creates the characteristic “cottage cheese” or rippled appearance.

Cellulite affects 80-90% of women at some point in their lives. It is not a sign of poor health or weight gain, and it can occur in individuals of all body types. While it may become more noticeable over time, especially with aging, it is a normal structural condition that often requires targeted treatment to improve.

What Causes Cellulite?

Cellulite develops due to a combination of structural and biological factors:

  • Fibrous Bands Beneath the Skin: Tight connective bands anchor the skin to deeper tissue. When these bands pull downward, they create visible dimpling.
  • Fat Distribution: Fat cells beneath the skin can push upward against the surface, exaggerating the uneven texture.
  • Hormonal Influences: Hormones such as estrogen influence fat storage and connective tissue behavior, contributing to cellulite formation.
  • Genetics: Your genetic makeup influences skin thickness, fat distribution and connective tissue structure, all of which affect how cellulite appears.
  • Skin Laxity and Aging: As collagen production declines, the skin becomes thinner and less firm, making cellulite more visible over time.

Because cellulite is rooted beneath the skin’s surface, topical creams and at-home treatments typically offer limited, temporary improvement at best.

Treatments for Cellulite at The Gillian Institute

At The Gillian Institute, cellulite treatment is never one-size-fits-all. Dr. Short carefully evaluates the depth, location and structural cause of your cellulite to determine the most effective approach for your goals.

Avéli®

Avéli is a minimally invasive treatment designed specifically to target the structural cause of cellulite. Using a specialized handheld device, Dr. Short precisely identifies and releases the fibrous bands beneath the skin that create dimpling.

Why Choose The Gillian Institute for Cellulite?

The Gillian Institute offers expertise and personalization essential for treating cellulite effectively. Dr. Kimberly Short combines surgical precision with an artistic eye, ensuring that each treatment plan is tailored to your anatomy and goals. With an AAAASF-accredited surgical facility and a patient-centered approach, your care is designed to be both safe and results-driven.598

Smooth, More Confident Skin Starts Here

If cellulite has been holding you back from feeling fully confident in your skin, you do not have to navigate it alone. At The Gillian Institute, your consultation is a thoughtful, pressure-free experience focused on understanding your concerns and building a plan that aligns with your goals.

Schedule your virtual consultation or in-person visit at our Indianapolis office today. Call 317-913-3260 to get started.