What is body contouring surgery? Put simply, body contouring refers to a group of cosmetic procedures that aim to improve the shape and tone of various areas of the body, and restore overall self-confidence.
These procedures are typically performed on individuals who have undergone significant weight loss or who have excess skin and fat in certain areas due to genetics or aging.
Now, before looking into the different types of surgery it is important to note that these procedures are in no way a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise.
The Different Types of Surgery
Some of the most common types of body contouring surgeries include liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), thigh lift, arm lift, and butt lift. Like all surgery, there is a risk of complications, so you must seek a trained and registered plastic surgeon.
Liposuction
Liposuction can help to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body and is typically performed on stubborn areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.
During the procedure, a plastic surgeon will make small incisions in the targeted area and use a thin tube called a cannula to suction out the excess fat. There are several techniques for liposuction, including tumescent, ultrasound-assisted, and laser-assisted liposuction.
Liposuction is commonly used to treat areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, back, and chin. The procedure can be performed under local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia, depending on your preference and the extent of the surgery.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles to create a firmer, flatter abdominal contour.
Typically, the abdominoplasty is performed on individuals who have excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles due to pregnancy, weight loss, or natural aging.
During the procedure, a plastic surgeon makes a horizontal incision above the pubic area to remove excess skin and fat. The surgeon may also repair and tighten the abdominal muscles to create a more toned appearance.
The remaining skin is then re-draped over the abdomen, and the incisions are closed with sutures.
Thigh Lift
A thigh lift can improve the appearance of the thighs by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the remaining skin to create a more toned and defined look.
During the procedure, a plastic surgeon makes incisions in the inner thigh, outer thigh, or both, depending on the extent of the surgery. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is re-draped and tightened to create a smoother and firmer appearance. The incisions are then closed with sutures.
Thigh lift surgery is a major surgical procedure that is typically performed under general anaesthesia. Recovery time can vary, but most patients can return to work and light activities within two to four weeks after surgery.
Arm Lift
Also known as brachioplasty, an arm lift aims to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms and is typically performed on those who have excess skin from weight loss.
During the arm lift surgery, a surgeon will make an incision on the underside of the arm, usually from the elbow to the armpit, and then remove excess skin and fat. The remaining skin is then pulled taut and sutured together, resulting in a smoother, more toned appearance.
An arm lift can help to improve the overall contour of the arm and may also enhance self-confidence.
Butt Lift
A butt lift, also known as a gluteoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that addresses the shape and overall appearance of the buttocks. There are two main types of butt lift procedures: the traditional butt lift and the controversial Brazilian butt lift.
The traditional butt lift involves making incisions on the back and/or sides of the buttocks to remove excess skin and fat. The remaining skin is then pulled upward and sutured in place, resulting in a firmer and more lifted appearance.
The Brazilian butt lift involves using fat transfer to enhance the size and shape of the buttocks. This procedure is known to carry more risk of complication and is therefore deemed controversial.
Depending on your overall concerns, body contouring surgery can help to restore self-confidence. Before undergoing any surgery, it is important that you speak to a trained plastic surgeon who will be able to recommend and advise a suitable treatment journey for you.
For more information, or to book a consultation, contact Specialists in Plastic Surgery.
