Endermologie improves the circulation by increasing blood and oxygen flow to the suffocated cellulite tissues and thereby accelerating the drainage of the stagnant waste products of metabolism via the lymphatic system and the fine blood capillaries. The metabolism of the fat cells is improved, encouraging them to lose some of their contents and thus shrink in size. Endermologie was used initially to treat scars in patients who had suffered burns, to soften the scars and improve elasticity and mobility of the scarred skin. An additional, unexpected benefit was soon noted; an improvement in the appearance of cellulite. Endermologie has been approved by the FDA in the USA. Since being launched there , patients have been queuing up for what has been described as the 'most exciting breakthrough in body contouring since the invention of liposuction by a French surgeon, Dr Y Illouz'. Dr Illouz currently uses Endermologie in conjunction with liposuction, to smooth, tone and decrease post-operative swelling. A number of plastic surgeons are offering Endermologie as an alternative to liposuction, for those patients who feel more comfortable with a non-invasive procedure as well as pre- and post liposuction treatment.