Body contouring surgery collectively encompasses many different body sculpting procedures to reshape a specific area of a patient’s body.
Body contouring can be used for:
- Face and neck
- Upper arms
- Breasts
- Abdomen
- Thighs
- Waistline and back
Whatever your needs, surgical body contouring procedures such as an abdominoplasty or medial thigh lift can dramatically reshape and improve the appearance of your body.
Why Opt For Body Contouring Procedures?
Patients tend to opt for body contouring surgeries such as an abdominoplasty or liposuction for one main reason: to remove stubborn areas of fat and excess skin that is unresponsive to regular exercise and a balanced diet.
It can be useful for:
Mothers
Giving birth can take its toll on a woman’s shape. Procedures such as an abdominoplasty can help bring your body back to pre-childbearing form.
Learn more about Mommy Makeovers >
People who have lost a significant amount of weight
While losing a large amount of weight can make you feel healthier and more energetic, it’s likely that your skin will remain stretched.
Body contouring such as medial thigh lifts and liposuction can help tighten up and sculpt various areas of your body.
Individuals wishing to minimize signs of aging
Age and gravity can push and pull the body out of shape.
Body contouring procedures performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon can ensure that you always look and feel your very best, regardless of your age.
3 Most Popular Body Contouring Procedures
While there are many surgical and non-surgical body contouring options, three of the most common procedures include:
1. Abdominoplasty
Extensive weight gain, dramatic weight loss or childbirth can cause your abdominal muscles to weaken, the skin to stretch and, in some cases, add unwanted fat to your midsection.
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that effectively:
Removes any excess skin and/or stubborn pockets of fat from the abdomen
Tightens stomach muscles for a firmer, more toned appearance
Flattens the belly
Defines the waist
An abdominoplasty is a safe and effective procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis and requires approximately 4-6 weeks for full recovery.
2. Liposuction
Liposuction (fat removal) is typically used as an individual procedure or in combination with another body contouring surgery such as an abdominoplasty, to help the plastic surgeon remove extra fat from the treatment area.
It can be used to treat many areas of the body including:
- Abdomen
- Thighs
- Back
- Upper arms
Typically, liposuction is performed as an outpatient procedure and it can take up to 14 days to fully heal from the surgery. However, this will depend largely on the size and volume of the treatment area.
3. Medial Thigh Lift
A medial thigh lift is designed to help patients gain fit and shapely legs. This procedure is particularly effective for patients who have experienced massive weight loss.
An appropriate candidate for a medial thigh lift is someone who:
- Is in good general health
- Is a non-smoker
- Has loose skin and unwanted fatty deposits in the thigh area despite regular exercise and a balanced diet
- Wants a firmer, more proportional feel and look to their legs
When performed by a certified plastic surgeon, a medial thigh lift is a safe and effective procedure. Patients can typically return to work 10 days after the surgery.
Am I a Candidate For Surgical Body Contouring?
While body contouring can successfully help patients achieve their ideal body shape, these surgeries are not suitable for everyone.
To be a good candidate for body contouring, you should:
- Be in good general health
- Be at a stable weight
- Have a positive outlook and realistic goals
- Be a non-smoker
- Be committed to a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and regular exercise
- Have no medical conditions that could increase the risk of surgery
As with all cosmetic treatments, your safety when considering a body contouring procedure is paramount. Scheduling a consultation with a plastic surgeon is crucial to determining whether or not such a surgery is a safe and effective option for you.
Call Today
To find out more about our surgical and non-surgical body contouring procedures, contact Dr. Ladak today at 780-407-6691.
Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Edmonton, Alberta and specializes in a variety of cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures.
