Now there’s a new cellulite treatment on the block that’s gained recent FDA approval for use in the US since Jan 30, 2012 (used in Europe since early last year). Cellulaze is the first one-time laser treatment approved by the FDA to diminish cellulite. When the connective tissue bands under your skin stiffen, it causes the fat cells they surround to become larger and push up into the skin, which causes that dimpled look. Cellulaze is different from other procedures because it treats the fibrous bands beneath the skin, which prevents them from pulling down and causing the uneven appearance. The technique also stimulates collagen production, which thickens and adds elasticity to the skin.

According the Daily Mail, this procedure is minimally-invasive and involves using a local anesthesia to numb the areas being treated. A few incisions are made in the skin, and once the laser is inserted, it heats and melts the fat, and releases the fibrous bands that pull down on the skin and cause the cottage cheese effect.

The entire procedure takes about 45 to 90 minutes. Although it is an outpatient surgery, the recovery includes bruising with small amounts of fluid leaking from the incision sites. Results will continue to improve over the next three to 12 months, and they last about one to two years, maybe even longer when the patient maintains a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Dr. Bruce Katz, director of the Juva Skin and Laser Center in New York City says, “We believe that if the cellulite has stayed away for two years, it’s probably gone for good.”

Hold onto your purse because this one-time treatment will run you $5,000 to $7,000, depending on the size of the area being treated, and the location you choose to have the procedure done. People pay thousands for other forms of cosmetic surgery to boost their self-confidence, so it’s no wonder women seek out cellulite treatments to feel better about baring skin in a bathing suit or shorts. If spending that much money is out of the question for you, here are five inexpensive things you can do to get rid of cellulite.