How Does Body Contouring Work?
Technological advances have made it possible for many people to achieve the look they want for themselves. Among the many options that have become increasingly popular for people who want to sculpt their bodies without invasive surgery is body contouring. With the help of a skilled plastic surgeon, the body you want is closer to you than you think. Whatever the goal is, whether it is to remove stubborn fat, tighten loose skin, or enhance certain areas of the body, body contouring can provide a more toned and defined body appearance through a range of techniques. But how does body contouring work? If you are trying to decide if something is right for you, this question may be something you are wondering about.
How Does Body Contouring Work?
Body contouring is a term that refers to different procedures and treatments that are designed to reshape, tighten, and enhance the appearance of the body. It involves both surgical and non-surgical techniques.
These procedures target areas where it is difficult to lose fat through natural means, like diet and exercise. If you are someone whose weight is close to your ideal but wants to smooth out specific areas of your body and have an overall improvement of your body shape, these treatments are perfect for you.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring Methods
Non-surgical body contouring methods have become more and more popular as well as effective.
Cryolipolysis (Fat Freezing)
This procedure, which is best known as CoolSculpting, freezes and destroys fat cells by controlled cooling. The surgeon uses an applicator to deliver cold temperatures to target areas. The cold temperature crystallizes fat cells without damaging surrounding tissues. The body naturally eliminates the dead fat cells through the lymphatic system in the weeks following the treatment. This gradually slims down the treated area.
Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments
This treatment stimulates collagen production and breaks down fat cells by heating the deeper layers of the skin. The heat tightens the skin and reduces fat. This is perfect for women who have loose skin due to weight loss or pregnancy.
Ultrasound Fat Reduction
This treatment uses focused sound waves to disrupt and destroy fat cells beneath the skin’s surface. UltraShape, one well-known method, targets stubborn fat pockets without causing too much discomfort. Just like in cryolipolysis, the body naturally flushes out the dead fat cells over time.
Laser Lipolysis
In this procedure, laser heats fat cells by penetrating the skin and raising the temperature of fat cells so high that they are damaged and removed later by the body’s lymphatic system.
Surgical Body Control Methods
Surgical methods are usually used for patients who need more dramatic results or those who have excess skin because of significant weight loss. They usually require more extended downtime and are performed by a board-certified surgeon like Dr. Chiu.
Liposuction
This is one of the oldest and most well-known methods of body contouring. The plastic surgeon inserts a tube through small incisions in targeted areas to suck out fat. Although it requires immediate results, patients go through a recovery period and some post-procedure care.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A tummy tuck tightens the abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat from this area. This procedure is usually recommended for patients who have loose, sagging skin after undergoing massive weight loss or pregnancy.
Body Lift Procedures
If patients want a procedure that can target multiple areas like thighs, buttocks, and abdomen all at once, this is the procedure for them. It removes excess skin and fat, as well as improves the skin tone.
What to Expect During Treatment
The experience will differ depending on the patient’s choice of treatment method. If you undergo a non-invasive or non-surgical treatment, there will be no anesthesia, minimal discomfort, and little to no downtime. Expect some redness, numbness, or swelling that resolves quickly.
In contrast, invasive or surgical procedures involve anesthesia, a recovery period, and specific aftercare instructions which may include caring for the drains and changing bandages, taking medications for pain management or infection prevention, ambulating to avoid blood clots, and staying out of the sun. Expect swelling and bruising, and outcomes may take months to be visible as the body heals. In addition, surgical treatments involve higher risks of complications.
For those looking for a way to enhance their physique and boost their confidence, body contouring, whether non-surgical or surgical, offers exciting possibilities. With the wide variety of options available, it is easy to be confused and feel overwhelmed. It is imperative to seek the help and guidance of a professional who can recommend the best treatment plan for you, considering your goals, lifestyle, medical history, and body type. If you think you can benefit from body contouring, call us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chiu, our board-certified surgeon, who will help you make an informed decision that will help you get the body you desire.