Thigh Circumference

Thigh circumference is another common method used to evaluate cellulite due to its cost effectiveness. A flexible ruler is wrapped around the predetermined sites of the subject’s thigh. For example, in one study, thigh circumference measurements were taken for the lower and upper thigh at 18 and 26 cm from the superior pole of the patella, respectively [18]. Although this instrument is reproducible and easy, it is not always a direct indication of cellulite. Other factors, such as edema from congestive heart disease, inflammation from external sources, or trauma, can causes changes in thigh circumference [17] (Fig. 16.5).