HOUSTON -- It promises to remove unsightly cellulite, but at a cost. While some patients swear by it, doctors are not as sold on the procedure known as VelaSmooth, KPRC Local 2 reported Friday.

More than 80 percent of women suffer from the unsightly dimpling, regardless of their weight or fitness level. Many would love to wipe it away.

"I'm starting to get a little flabby here and it really bothers me in a bathing suit," patient Doreen Napoli said.

The Food and Drug Administration this year approved Velasmooth, which is a non-invasive treatment.

It's supposed to smooth away the dimples. But does it really work?

"I've heard variable results. I've heard sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, and there's no way to predict who it's going to work for," said Dr. Esta Kronberg, a dermatologist.

But people who have paid thousands of dollars to get the treatment swear by it.

"I love it. I can see an improved difference in the texture of my skin, and the size of my body. My clothes fit me a lot better," patient Jackie Groom said.

Velasmooth works by using infrared light and radio frequency to heat the fat and increase elasticity in the skin, while rollers and a vacuum smooth it out.

Patients said it does not hurt a bit.

Those who use the equipment said it takes a few weeks to notice a difference. A complete session takes 12 visits in six weeks, and costs between $2,000 and $3,000.

"Cellulite doesn't pop up overnight, typically, and so it takes a little time to get it reduced," said Mark Harlan, with Timeless Benefits.

But, would Houston doctors recommend it to their patients? One dermatologist said it's too soon.

"I want to have the machine out for at least a year or two before I start recommending it or think about buying it," said Esta Kronberg, a dermatologist.

Doctors said it's still too early to know how long any kind of results might last.