Body contouring is often defined as a medical or surgical procedure that reshapes and improves the appearance of various body areas. It varies from patient to patient, with different body types and goals.
Tummy tucks and breast procedures are popular for improving and defining shape; however, the best contour is often achieved by combining other procedures to change the shape of a particular area. For example, a patient may want to add liposuction to a tummy tuck procedure to contour the upper ab and flank regions further. The surgeon usually discusses these options during the consultation so the patient understands each procedure’s benefits and limitations.
It is important to note that body contouring procedures are not a solution to weight loss. For example, patients seeking liposuction to remove fat from an area may be surprised to know that the surgeon would only be able to safely remove a fraction of fat tissue during surgery. Therefore, outcomes offer a more modest improvement.
Skin removal is also considered a form of body contouring. The aging process often causes loose skin, weight loss and pregnancy. Patients who cannot improve skin tone with exercise and other toning regimens may benefit from skin removal procedures (such as a tummy tuck, thigh, arm or back lift).
There are also non-invasive fat removal and skin-tightening machines on the market. However, patients must be ideal candidates to see improvement since the process is typically less effective than excising the redundant skin. The surgeon will discuss a patient’s optimal outcome during consultation.
Other body contouring procedures can target specific body areas, such as:
- Tummy Tuck
- Mini Tummy Tuck
- Breast Lift
- Mommy Makeover
- Thigh Lift
- Back Lift
- Circumferential body lift (or belt lipectomy)
- Thoracoplasty (excision of excess skin on the chest below the armpit)
- Axillary Roll Liposuction (removal of excess tissue in the “bra roll” area)
Liposuction contouring
Speaking with a highly experienced board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Andrade during an in-person consultation is essential to discuss the patient’s goals, risks and benefits. A virtual consultation is not as effective as the surgeon cannot correctly assess skin tone, laxity, tone, etc. During the assessment, the surgeon will also show potential patients before and after photos of their work so they understand the outcomes and what is realistically attainable.
Dr. Andrade is accepting consultations for body contouring surgery in his private clinic. For more information, patients can call the office at 905-898-2519.
