Are dimples on the buttocks cellulite or something else? A clear explanation without myths

Many people automatically call any unevenness on the skin “cellulite.” Saw the “orange peel” effect? Must be cellulite. Noticed dimples on the buttocks? Again — cellulite. But let’s start with definitions.

Cellulite vs. Cellulitis: two different things

Cellulite (properly pronounced and written as “cellulite” or “cellulite-like changes”) describes the appearance of the skin — dimples, bumps, uneven texture, or “orange peel.” It is simply a structural change in the skin and subcutaneous fat caused by:

• aging and loss of skin elasticity;
• weight fluctuations;
• hormonal changes;
• genetic or individual anatomical features.

In other words, cellulite is not a disease. It’s just a description of skin structure — similar to saying “loose skin,” “fibrous bands,” or “skin dimpling.”

Cellulitis — a medical condition, not “skin dimples”

Cellulitis is a true inflammatory condition of the subcutaneous tissue, usually caused by a bacterial infection. The “-itis” ending (like in “appendicitis” or “pancreatitis”) means inflammation.

So “cellulite” and “cellulitis” are completely different things and should never be confused.

So what are those dimples on the buttocks?

In 99.9% of cases, those dimples are NOT cellulitis. Their causes are mechanical and structural.

1. Aging of the skin

As we age, the skin loses elasticity and begins to sag. Inside the tissue are fibrous septa (bands) that connect the skin to deeper structures — muscles or fascia.

When the skin descends under gravity while the fibrous bands remain fixed, they pull the skin inward, creating visible dimples.

2. Excess subcutaneous fat

More fat = more fibrous septa = more visible texture irregularities.

Even slim people have fat in the buttock area — often the highest concentration. If someone loses 10–15 kg or more, the fat volume decreases but the fibrous bands remain. The skin becomes looser and starts to hang on those bands, forming dimples.

3. Frequent injections in the buttocks

Repeated injections in the same area cause scar tissue (fibrosis), which pulls the skin inward and creates a local dimple.

4. Anatomical features

Some people naturally have areas where subcutaneous fat is minimal and the skin is attached almost directly to the underlying bone structures. In such cases, dimples are simply anatomy.

Can this be corrected?

Yes — but the method depends on the cause.

Case 1: Dimples caused by lack of local fat volume

The solution is often lipofilling (fat transfer). A patient’s own fat is injected into the dimple to even the surface.

The best results are achieved under local anesthesia — the patient can stand up, and the surgeon can immediately evaluate the symmetry in a natural position.

Before injecting fat, the fibrous band must be released. If not, it will continue pulling the skin inward despite adding volume.

Case 2: Dimples caused by skin ptosis (sagging)

If the main issue is sagging skin — lipofilling won’t help. It may even worsen the problem because more volume means more weight, which pulls tissues downward.

Simple test: lift the skin upward with your hand. If the dimples disappear — you need a lift, not fillers or fat.

During a lift, the fibrous bands are released, the skin is elevated, and the contour becomes smooth again.

Why “just fat grafting” often doesn’t work

Many patients come saying: “I just want lipofilling to lift my butt.” But lipofilling does NOT lift — it adds weight. Lifting requires a surgical lift, not volume.

Buttocks, like breasts or abdomen, often need tightening — not enlargement.

Conclusion

• Dimples on the buttocks are almost never cellulitis.
• “Cellulite” describes skin texture, not illness.
• “Cellulitis” is inflammation — a medical condition unrelated to dimples.
• Treatment must match the cause: lipofilling, lifting, or a combination.

When the true cause is identified, achieving smooth, even skin becomes completely realistic.