Body contouring Spring Plastic Surgery

Body Contouring

Reviewed by Dr. Daniel Zeichner MD

The term Body Contouring has evolved alongside technological advances and the aesthetic standards of each era. At Spring Plastic Surgery, we believe that restoring the natural contours of your body after a traumatic event (in the strict medical sense) such as pregnancy or sudden weight loss is crucial to maintaining both physical and emotional health.

What we Mean by Body Contouring

At Spring Plastic Surgery, we understand Body Contouring as a group of body procedures focused on enhancing the aesthetic harmony and contours of your body. Among these procedures, the following stand out:

Liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, arms, or hips. Using a suction technique, the surgeon inserts a thin tube (cannula) to break up and extract fat beneath the skin, contouring the treated areas for a smoother, more proportional appearance. This procedure is ideal for individuals who struggle to eliminate localized fat through diet and exercise alone.

Vaser Liposuction

Vaser Liposuction is an advanced cosmetic procedure that uses ultrasonic technology to break down fat cells before removal. This method allows for a more precise and less invasive fat removal process compared to traditional liposuction. By targeting specific areas of the body, VASER Liposuction sculpts and refines the contours while preserving surrounding tissues, making it ideal for patients seeking a more defined, toned appearance with minimal downtime.

Abdominal Definition

Abdominal Definition, also known as abdominal etching, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the abdominal muscles. It involves the strategic removal of fat around the abdominal muscles to create a more defined and sculpted “six-pack” look. The surgeon uses liposuction techniques to contour and highlight the natural muscle structure, giving the abdomen a more toned and athletic appearance.

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles. This procedure is often performed to create a smoother, firmer abdominal profile, especially after significant weight loss or pregnancy, which can leave loose skin and weakened muscles. Abdominoplasty helps improve core stability and restores a more toned, contoured appearance to the midsection.

Arm, Thigh, or Buttock Lift

A Buttock Lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at improving the shape and contour of the buttocks by removing excess skin and lifting sagging tissue. This procedure helps to create a firmer, more youthful appearance, especially for individuals who have lost significant weight or have natural skin laxity due to aging. Often performed as part of a body lift, the buttock lift enhances body proportions and provides a smoother, more defined lower body profile.

Mommy Makeover

A Mommy Makeover is a combination of cosmetic surgical procedures designed to restore and enhance a woman’s body after pregnancy and childbirth. Typically, it includes procedures such as breast augmentation or lift, tummy tuck, and liposuction to address areas affected by pregnancy, such as the breasts, abdomen, and waist. The goal is to help women regain their pre-pregnancy shape, improve body contours, and boost self-confidence.

These procedures are designed to enhance your body’s physical appearance by removing fat or excess skin in areas that are difficult to treat with exercise or strict diets.

Benefits of Body Contouring

1. Reduction of Localized Fat

Body contouring allows the removal of specific fat deposits that are difficult to reduce with diet and exercise.

2. Enhanced Body Shape

Body contouring allows the removal of specific fat deposits that are difficult to reduce with diet and exercise.

3. Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem

According to a study by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), patients who undergo body contouring experience a significant boost in confidence about their physical appearance.

4. Removal of Excess Skin

Especially in individuals who have lost a substantial amount of weight, body contouring enables the removal of sagging skin, enhancing comfort and physical appearance. — Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Dermatology

5. Long-Lasting and Natural-Looking Results

With a healthy diet and lifestyle, the effects of body contouring are long-lasting, offering sustained aesthetic benefits.

6. Improved Posture and Mobility

Removing excess skin and fat can improve posture and mobility by lessening the strain on the joints and lumbosacral area.

7. Customized, Targeted Treatment

Each body contouring procedure at Spring Plastic Surgery can be customized to address specific problem areas based on the patient’s needs.

Based on our patients’ outcomes, body contouring can support both physical health and psychological and emotional well-being, providing an aesthetic enhancement that positively impacts various aspects of the patient’s life.

Recovery and Postoperative Period for Body Contouring Procedures

Generally, the recovery or postoperative process may take from one to six weeks, depending on the procedure.

• Compression Garments: These help reduce swelling, promote healing, and maintain the sculpted shape. They should be worn as directed by the surgeon, typically for several weeks.

• Avoid Physical Strain: Intense physical activities should be avoided in the initial weeks to prevent complications, such as bruising or stitches opening.

• Hydration and Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and follow a balanced diet rich in proteins and nutrients to encourage recovery.

• Scar Care: Use specific scar creams and sun protection to improve the appearance of scars over time.

• Medical Follow-Up: Attending all postoperative appointments is important to monitor recovery and promptly detect any complications.

How Do I Know if I Am a Good Candidate for a Body Contouring Procedure?

To determine if you are a good candidate for a Body Contouring procedure, our team of surgeons recommends considering several key factors.

The first is Weight: It is recommended that you maintain a stable weight, as significant fluctuations could affect the results. Generally, people in good health, without serious medical issues, are ideal candidates, as recovery and outcomes depend largely on the patient’s overall health. Additionally, those looking to eliminate localized fat, loose skin, or improve body contour following significant weight loss can greatly benefit from these procedures.

The second is BMI: Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure used to assess whether a person is at an appropriate weight in relation to their height. Although BMI does not directly measure body fat, it provides a useful estimate of body composition based on weight and height, helping to identify potential health risks associated with weight.

At Spring Plastic Surgery, we work with an average BMI of 35. You can calculate your BMI by asking our chat.

It is crucial to have realistic expectations about what Body Contouring can offer. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help you assess whether this treatment is suitable for you and will aid in developing a personalized plan to achieve your aesthetic goals safely and effectively.