The term body contouring refers to procedures that enhance the silhouette. There are different procedures, including both non-surgical and surgical options. Body contouring surgery options tend to give you more dramatic results. Procedures such as breast lifts and tummy tucks can help improve the body’s tone and shape. Contouring can also help with skin hygiene by reducing infections that can form between excess skin. Due to the nature of the surgery, not everyone will be the right candidate but there are some indications that it could be the right fit for you.
You Have Excess Skin after Significant Weight Loss
Losing weight requires a lot of dedication and hard work. If you have put forth the effort to lose the weight, then it can be frustrating to see saggy skin that doesn’t respond to exercise or diet. Body contouring can be used to eliminated unwanted skin and address the stubborn pockets of fat.
You Are at Your Goal Weight
The ideal candidate for body contouring surgery already follows a well-balanced, healthy diet and exercises regularly. Even after your treatment, it’s recommended that you follow these healthy habits so that you can maintain your results. The ideal candidate should already be within 15% to 20% of their ideal goal weight. This means the procedure has the biggest impact and can help transform your body into the one you have always wanted. If you continue to lose weight after the procedure, then new sagging and unwanted contours develop. If you rapidly regain the lost weight, then you can weaken and stress your skin and it can cause wide scars and stretch marks.
You Have Realistic and Positive Goals
Body sculpting procedures are a personal decision and should only be done when you want it. It’s not a way for you to meet goals that someone else has for you and it should only be done to meet the goals you have for yourself. You will want to speak to your doctor about the results you can expect.
You Are a Non-Smoker
Smoking can play a big role in the recovery from surgery. It delays healing and negatively affects your circulation. An ideal candidate for any body contouring procedure is a non-smoker.
You Are in Good Health
Your surgeon will check to make sure you are in good health and you don’t have any medical conditions that could impair you healing after surgery. It’s important that you fully disclose your health history, including the use of current medications and herbal and vitamin supplements, as well as any tobacco and alcohol use.
Recovery times for the procedure can vary depending on the type of surgery performed. A full recovery can take several months. No matter what procedure you have, you will likely be sore following the procedure and the use of drains may be necessary.