Stage 1 There is an increase in volume of the fatty tissue cells in the affected region, due to the accumulation of fat within the cells. There is no variation in blood circulation in the sustentation tissues, but just a slight dilation of the small veins of the fatty tissue. There are neither visible signs of cellulites on the skin nor pain. During this stage the best treatment procedure is to prevent the further development of cellulites through physical exercise. There is no need for an intensive treatment; though the use of a reducer gel is mandatory.

Stage 2 Fat cells get a little puffier, and those cells located deeper within the skin begin to undergo the same process. Fibrosis gets worse, micro-nodules start to form at this stage. Blood and lymph (the aqueous substance which soaks cells) become restrained and a bigger swelling of fatty cells takes place. Due to the deposition of toxic waste at this point, it is possible to observe the irregularities on the skin through palpation, however pain has not manifested itself in the patient yet. Treatments like daily massaging together with the application of a reducer gel becomes necessary along with physical exercise.

Stage 3 Fat cells keep enlarging because of the continuous deposition of fat. Tissues become disorganized and nodules begin to appear on the skin. Such nodules are still in depth but they can be seen as irregularities on the skin surface, even without palpation. The aspects of the skin now resemble that of an “orange peel”. Treatment is carried out the same way as in Stage II, but at much more frequent intervals and intense physical exercise sessions become a necessity.

Stage 4 The disordered swelling of fatty cells gets even more pronounced, sustentation tissue becomes harder (fibro sclerosis) and the circulation of returning blood gets compromised. During this stage the cellulite is hard and skin becomes “lustrous”, full of depressions, with an aspect resembling that of a mattress. Treatment must now last longer, but one can nonetheless expect a partial improvement.