Body Contouring Surgery: Benefits, Risks, Recovery

Body contouring, also known as body sculpting, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to reshape and improve the appearance of your body. It can help you get rid of excess fat, skin, and tissue that may be bothering you or affecting your self-confidence. Body contouring can also enhance your body shape and curves, giving you a more toned and proportionate look.

Body contouring is not a weight loss solution. It is meant for people who are close to their ideal weight and have realistic expectations about the results. Body contouring can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, but it cannot change your lifestyle or health habits. You still need to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise to keep your body in shape after the procedure.

There are different types of body contouring procedures, depending on your needs and preferences. Some are nonsurgical and minimally invasive, while others are surgical and require more recovery time. In this article, we will explain the benefits, risks, and recovery of some of the most popular body contouring options available today.

Table of Contents

Nonsurgical Body Contouring

Nonsurgical body contouring is also known as nonsurgical fat reduction. It involves using various technologies and techniques to target and destroy fat cells in specific areas of the body, without making any incisions or cuts. The fat cells are then eliminated from the body naturally through the lymphatic system.

Nonsurgical body contouring is ideal for people who have stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise, but do not want to undergo surgery or anesthesia. It can also be a good option for people who have mild to moderate skin laxity and do not need skin removal or tightening.

Some of the most common nonsurgical body contouring methods are:

Cryolipolysis

Cryolipolysis, also known as CoolSculpting®, is a FDA-approved procedure that uses controlled cooling to freeze and destroy fat cells. The cold temperature causes the fat cells to crystallize and die, while leaving the surrounding tissues unharmed. The dead fat cells are then gradually flushed out of the body over the next few weeks or months.

Cryolipolysis can treat various areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, flanks, arms, bra and back fat, underneath the buttocks (banana roll), and double chin. The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes per treatment area, and you can resume your normal activities immediately after. You may need multiple sessions to achieve your desired results.

The benefits of cryolipolysis include:

It is noninvasive and painless.
It has minimal side effects and risks.
It has no downtime or recovery period.
It produces natural-looking results.

The possible side effects and risks of cryolipolysis include:

Temporary redness, swelling, bruising, numbness, tingling, or sensitivity in the treated area.
Rare complications such as paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), which is a condition where the treated fat cells grow larger instead of smaller.
Unsatisfactory results or uneven fat reduction.

Laser Lipolysis

Laser lipolysis, also known as SculpSure®, is another FDA-approved procedure that uses controlled heating and laser energy to target and destroy fat cells. The heat damages the fat cells and causes them to release their contents, which are then metabolized by the body. The laser also stimulates collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity and texture.

Laser lipolysis can treat various areas of the body, such as the abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, arms, and chin. The procedure takes about 25 minutes per treatment area, and you can resume your normal activities immediately after. You may need multiple sessions to achieve your desired results.

The benefits of laser lipolysis include:

It is noninvasive and comfortable.
It has minimal side effects and risks.
It has no downtime or recovery period.
It produces natural-looking results.

The possible side effects and risks of laser lipolysis include:

Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or firmness in the treated area.
Rare complications such as burns, blisters, scars, or skin discoloration.
Unsatisfactory results or uneven fat reduction.

Radiofrequency Lipolysis

Radiofrequency lipolysis is another nonsurgical fat reduction technique that uses controlled heating and ultrasound technology to target and destroy fat cells. The heat causes the fat cells to rupture and liquefy, which are then drained by the lymphatic system. The ultrasound waves also help break down the fat cells and smooth out the skin surface.

Radiofrequency lipolysis can treat various areas of the body, such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, and chin. The procedure takes about 15 to 60 minutes per treatment area, depending on the device used. You can resume your normal activities immediately after. You may need multiple sessions to achieve your desired results.

The benefits of radiofrequency lipolysis include:

It is noninvasive and painless.
It has minimal side effects and risks.
It has no downtime or recovery period.
It produces natural-looking results.

The possible side effects and risks of radiofrequency lipolysis include:

Temporary redness, swelling, warmth, or numbness in the treated area.
Rare complications such as burns, blisters, scars, or skin discoloration.
Unsatisfactory results or uneven fat reduction.

Injection Lipolysis

Injection lipolysis, also known as Kybella®, is a FDA-approved procedure that uses injectable deoxycholic acid to target and destroy fat cells. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps break down dietary fat. When injected into the fat tissue, it causes the fat cells to dissolve and be absorbed by the body.

Injection lipolysis can treat the submental area, or the fat under the chin. The procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes per session, and you may need two to six sessions spaced at least one month apart to achieve your desired results. You may experience some swelling, bruising, or discomfort after each session, which may last for a few days or weeks.

The benefits of injection lipolysis include:

It is minimally invasive and quick.
It has minimal side effects and risks.
It has little to no downtime or recovery period.
It produces natural-looking results.

The possible side effects and risks of injection lipolysis include:

Temporary swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness, or hardness in the treated area.
Rare complications such as infection, nerve injury, difficulty swallowing, or facial asymmetry.
Unsatisfactory results or uneven fat reduction.

Surgical Body Contouring

Surgical body contouring is also known as body lift surgery. It involves making incisions and removing excess skin and fat from various areas of the body. It also involves tightening the underlying muscles and tissues to create a smoother and firmer contour. Surgical body contouring can also address sagging skin that may result from aging, pregnancy, or significant weight loss.

Surgical body contouring is ideal for people who have moderate to severe skin laxity and excess fat that cannot be treated by nonsurgical methods. It can also be a good option for people who have achieved their weight loss goals and want to get rid of the loose skin that may affect their appearance and comfort.

Some of the most common surgical body contouring procedures are:

Panniculectomy

Panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdominal region. The pannus is the apron-like fold of skin that hangs over the pubic area and may cause problems such as rashes, infections, hygiene issues, or mobility difficulties. Panniculectomy can help improve these issues and enhance the appearance of the lower abdomen.

Panniculectomy can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), liposuction, or hernia repair. The procedure takes about two to five hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. You may need to stay in the hospital for one to two nights after the surgery. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.

The benefits of panniculectomy include:

It can relieve physical discomfort and improve hygiene.
It can improve the shape and contour of the lower abdomen.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.

The possible side effects and risks of panniculectomy include:

Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the lower abdomen or legs.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.

Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal region. It also tightens the abdominal muscles that may have become stretched or separated due to pregnancy or weight fluctuations. Abdominoplasty can help create a flatter and firmer abdomen and waistline.

Abdominoplasty can be performed in different ways, depending on your needs and preferences. There are three main types of abdominoplasty:

Mini abdominoplasty: This type of abdominoplasty only involves removing excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen below the navel. The navel is not moved or reshaped. This type of abdominoplasty is suitable for people who have mild to moderate excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen.

Full abdominoplasty: This type of abdominoplasty involves removing excess skin and fat from the entire abdomen, both above and below the navel. The navel is also moved and reshaped to match the new contour of the abdomen. This type of abdominoplasty is suitable for people who have moderate to severe excess skin and fat in the whole abdomen.
Extended abdominoplasty: This type of abdominoplasty is similar to the full abdominoplasty, but it also involves removing excess skin and fat from the flanks and lower back. The incision extends around the hips and waistline. This type of abdominoplasty is suitable for people who have significant excess skin and fat in the abdomen and the surrounding areas.

The procedure takes about two to five hours, depending on the type of abdominoplasty performed. You may need to stay in the hospital for one to two nights after the surgery. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.

The benefits of abdominoplasty include:

It can remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen.
It can tighten and strengthen the abdominal muscles.
It can improve the shape and contour of the abdomen and waistline.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.

The possible side effects and risks of abdominoplasty include:

Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the abdomen or navel.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.
Thigh lift: This type of body contouring surgery removes excess skin and fat from the inner or outer thighs. It can help improve the shape and contour of the thighs and reduce chafing or irritation. Thigh lift can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures such as liposuction, buttock lift, or lower body lift. The procedure takes about two to three hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. You may need to stay in the hospital for one to two nights after the surgery. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.
The benefits of thigh lift include:
It can remove excess skin and fat from the thighs.
It can improve the shape and contour of the thighs.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.
The possible side effects and risks of thigh lift include:
Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the thighs or legs.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.

Arm lift

Arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms. It can help improve the shape and contour of the arms and reduce sagging or drooping. Arm lift can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures such as liposuction, breast lift, or upper body lift. The procedure takes about one to two hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. You may need to stay in the hospital for one night after the surgery. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.

The benefits of arm lift include:

It can remove excess skin and fat from the arms.
It can improve the shape and contour of the arms.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.

The possible side effects and risks of arm lift include:

Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the arms or hands.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.

Breast lift

Breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and reshapes sagging breasts. It can help improve the position, size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts and nipples. Breast lift can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, or liposuction. The procedure takes about one to three hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. You may need to stay in the hospital for one night after the surgery. You may also need to wear a special bra for several weeks to support the healing process.

The benefits of breast lift include:

It can lift and reshape sagging breasts.
It can improve the position, size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts and nipples.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.

The possible side effects and risks of breast lift include:

Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the breasts or nipples.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.

Buttock lift

Buttock lift is a surgical procedure that lifts and reshapes sagging buttocks. It can help improve the position, size, shape, and contour of the buttocks and hips. Buttock lift can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures such as liposuction, fat transfer (Brazilian butt lift), or lower body lift. The procedure takes about two to four hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. You may need to stay in the hospital for one to two nights after the surgery. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.

The benefits of buttock lift include:

It can lift and reshape sagging buttocks.
It can improve the position, size, shape, and contour of the buttocks and hips.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.

The possible side effects and risks of buttock lift include:

Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the buttocks or legs.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.
Lower body lift: This type of body contouring surgery removes excess skin and fat from the lower body, including the abdomen, flanks, lower back, buttocks, and thighs. It can help improve the shape and contour of the lower body and reduce sagging or drooping. Lower body lift can be performed as a single procedure or in stages, depending on your needs and preferences. The procedure takes about four to six hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. You may need to stay in the hospital for two to three nights after the surgery. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.
The benefits of lower body lift include:
It can remove excess skin and fat from the lower body.
It can improve the shape and contour of the lower body.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.
The possible side effects and risks of lower body lift include:
Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the lower body or legs.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.

Upper body lift

Upper body lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper body, including the arms, breasts, chest, and back. It can help improve the shape and contour of the upper body and reduce sagging or drooping. Upper body lift can be performed as a single procedure or in stages, depending on your needs and preferences. The procedure takes about three to five hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. You may need to stay in the hospital for one to two nights after the surgery. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the healing process.

The benefits of upper body lift include:

It can remove excess skin and fat from the upper body.
It can improve the shape and contour of the upper body.
It can boost self-confidence and quality of life.

The possible side effects and risks of upper body lift include:

Pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical site.
Scarring, numbness, or skin discoloration in the treated area.
Fluid accumulation (seroma) or blood clotting (hematoma) under the skin.
Poor wound healing or wound separation.
Nerve damage or sensation loss in the upper body or arms.
Complications from anesthesia or other medical conditions.

Recovery and Results

The recovery time and results of body contouring procedures vary depending on the type and extent of correction performed. In general, you can expect some common steps and tips for your recovery process:

Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully regarding wound care, medication, activity level, and follow-up visits.
Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking blood-thinning medications that may interfere with your healing process.
Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to promote healing and prevent infection.
Wear your compression garment as directed to reduce swelling, bleeding, and discomfort and support your new shape.
Avoid strenuous exercise, lifting, or bending for at least six weeks or until your surgeon clears you to resume your normal activities.
Expect some swelling, bruising, and soreness in the treated areas for several weeks or months after the surgery. These will gradually subside and reveal your final results.
Be patient and realistic about your results. It may take up to a year or more for your scars to fade and your skin to adjust to your new contour. Your results may also change over time due to aging, weight fluctuations, or hormonal changes.

Body contouring can help you achieve a more attractive and proportionate body shape that matches your weight loss efforts and personal goals. However, it is important to remember that body contouring is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. You still need to maintain a stable weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to preserve your results and prevent future complications.

Conclusion

Body contouring is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes and improves the appearance of your body. It can help you get rid of excess fat, skin, and tissue that may be bothering you or affecting your self-confidence. Body contouring can also enhance your body shape and curves, giving you a more toned and proportionate look.

There are different types of body contouring procedures available today, ranging from nonsurgical to surgical options. Each type has its own benefits, risks, and recovery process. You should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your condition and recommend the best option for you.

Body contouring can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, but it cannot change your lifestyle or health habits. You still need to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise to keep your body in shape after the procedure. Body contouring can also have some side effects and complications that you should be aware of before undergoing the procedure.

Body contouring can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for many people who want to improve their appearance and self-esteem. However, it is not a decision that should be taken lightly. You should do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and have realistic expectations about the results. Body contouring can help you look better, but it cannot make you happier or more successful. You should be happy with yourself first, and then consider body contouring as a way to enhance your beauty and confidence.

FAQs

Q: How much does body contouring cost?

A: The cost of body contouring depends on several factors, such as the type and extent of correction, the surgeon’s fees, the anesthesia fees, the facility fees, and the geographic location. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of some common body contouring procedures in 2020 were:

Cryolipolysis: $1,481 per session
Laser lipolysis: $1,450 per session
Radiofrequency lipolysis: $2,025 per session
Injection lipolysis: $1,310 per session
Panniculectomy: $8,253
Abdominoplasty: $6,092
Thigh lift: $5,171
Arm lift: $4,550
Breast lift: $4,693
Buttock lift: $4,960

These are only average costs and do not include other expenses such as consultation fees, preoperative tests, postoperative care, or revision surgery. The actual cost may vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. You should consult with your surgeon for a more accurate estimate of the total cost of your body contouring procedure.

Q: How do I choose a qualified body contouring surgeon?

A: Choosing a qualified body contouring surgeon is one of the most important steps in ensuring a safe and successful outcome. You should look for a surgeon who:

Is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. This means that the surgeon has completed rigorous training and examinations in plastic or cosmetic surgery and adheres to high standards of ethics and professionalism.
Has extensive experience and expertise in performing body contouring procedures. You should ask the surgeon how many body contouring procedures he or she has performed, what types of techniques he or she uses, and what are the typical results and complications.
Has a good reputation and reviews from previous patients. You should check the surgeon’s online reviews, ratings, testimonials, before-and-after photos, and videos to get an idea of his or her work quality and patient satisfaction.
Has a comfortable and accredited surgical facility. You should visit the surgeon’s office and surgical facility to see if they are clean, safe, well-equipped, and staffed by qualified professionals.
Has a friendly and supportive staff. You should feel comfortable and welcome by the surgeon’s staff, who should be able to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide you with clear instructions and guidance throughout your body contouring journey.

Q: How do I prepare for body contouring surgery?

A: Preparing for body contouring surgery is essential for ensuring a smooth and successful recovery. You should follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully regarding what to do before, during, and after the surgery. Some general tips include:

Stop smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking blood-thinning medications at least two weeks before the surgery, as they can interfere with your healing process and increase your risk of complications.
Eat a balanced diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to promote healing and prevent infection.
Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours after the surgery, as you may be groggy or in pain.
Pack a bag with essential items such as your identification, insurance card, medication, comfortable clothing, pillows, blankets, and entertainment.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding when to stop eating and drinking before the surgery, what medications to take or avoid, and what hygiene products to use or avoid.
Arrive at the surgical facility on time and with a positive attitude.

Q: How long does it take to recover from body contouring surgery?

A: The recovery time from body contouring surgery varies depending on the type and extent of correction performed. In general, you can expect some common stages and timelines for your recovery process:

The first week: This is the most critical and uncomfortable stage of your recovery. You may experience pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection in the surgical
site. You may also have drains, stitches, or staples in the treated areas. You may need to take painkillers, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs to ease your discomfort and prevent complications. You may also need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling, bleeding, and discomfort and support your new shape. You should rest as much as possible and avoid any strenuous activity, lifting, or bending. You should also keep your incisions clean and dry and follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care and dressing changes. You should avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking blood-thinning medications that may interfere with your healing process. You should drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to promote healing and prevent infection. You should also avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures that may affect your skin healing. You should expect some swelling, bruising, and soreness in the treated areas for several weeks or months after the surgery. These will gradually subside and reveal your final results.
The second week: This is the stage where you may start to see some improvement in your condition and appearance. You may notice that your pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection have decreased or resolved. You may also notice that your incisions have started to heal and your scars have started to fade. You may be able to remove your drains, stitches, or staples if your surgeon approves. You may also be able to switch to a lighter compression garment or a regular bra if you had breast surgery. You may be able to resume some light activities such as walking, driving, or working from home if you feel comfortable and your surgeon clears you. However, you should still avoid any strenuous activity, lifting, or bending that may strain your incisions or affect your results. You should also continue to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, medication, diet, hydration, and sun protection.
The third week: This is the stage where you may start to feel more normal and confident in your new shape. You may notice that your pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, or infection have almost gone away or completely gone away. You may also notice that your incisions have healed well and your scars have become less noticeable. You may be able to stop wearing your compression garment or a special bra if you had breast surgery. You may be able to resume most of your normal activities such as working, exercising, or socializing if you feel comfortable and your surgeon clears you. However, you should still be careful not to overdo it or push yourself too hard as your body is still healing and adjusting to your new contour. You should also continue to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, medication, diet, hydration, and sun protection.
The fourth week and beyond: This is the stage where you may start to enjoy the full benefits of your body contouring surgery. You may notice that your results are more visible and stable as the swelling and bruising have completely subsided and the skin has adjusted to the new contour. You may also notice that your scars have become lighter and smoother as they mature over time. You may be able to resume all of your normal activities without any restrictions or limitations if you feel comfortable and your surgeon clears you. However, you should still maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration to preserve your results and prevent future complications. You should also protect your skin from sun damage by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, or avoiding sun exposure as much as possible.
Body contouring surgery can help you achieve a more attractive and proportionate body shape that matches your weight loss efforts and personal goals. However, it is important to remember that body contouring is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. You still need to maintain a stable weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to preserve your results and prevent future complications. Body contouring can also have some side effects and complications that you should be aware of before undergoing the procedure.
Body contouring can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for many people who want to improve their appearance and self-esteem. However, it is not a decision that should be taken lightly. You should do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and have realistic expectations about the results. Body contouring can help you look better, but it cannot make you happier or more successful. You should be happy with yourself first, and then consider body contouring as a way to enhance your beauty and confidence.

Body Contouring: What You Need to Know About This Cosmetic Procedure