Ask Dr. Elliott: Popular Body Contouring Procedures

Body contouring is a very hot topic in the world of cosmetic surgery, and with good reason. Body contouring procedures offer patients the chance to rejuvenate problematic areas of the body by surgically removing, repositioning, and tightening excess skin, tissue, and fat. Body contouring surgery can be performed on areas all over the body including the abdomen, back, arms, legs, and more. For patients who may not be sure how body contouring can help them achieve their aesthetic goals, I have answered questions about a few popular body contouring procedures:

Question #1: How can I know if arm lift surgery or liposuction would be a better solution to treat sagging in my arms?

Choosing between arm lift surgery and liposuction to relieve upper arm sagging depends entirely on what is causing your aesthetic issue. An arm lift can help by removing loose, excess skin from the upper arm, whereas liposuction is better for patients who suffer from excess fat in their arms. During your consultation, I will examine your arms to determine the cause of your arm sagging and make my recommendation based on what I believe is best. Some patients may actually benefit from combining both procedures to achieve even more comprehensive results.

Question #2: Who are good candidates for thigh lift surgery?

Thigh lift surgery can be a solution for patients who suffer from stretched or loose skin around their inner (medial) thigh region and/or their outer (lateral) thigh. These are common problem areas for people who have experienced significant weight loss. Thigh lift candidates should be in stable mental and physical health and should bring realistic, but positive expectations into their surgery. I advise patients to reach their ideal body weight before undergoing their surgery. Additionally, thigh lift patients should be non-smokers, as nicotine can disrupt healing and cause complications during the post-surgery recovery period.

Question #3: Can a mommy makeover be used to help me lose weight?

Even body contouring procedures like a mommy makeover that offer comprehensive physique-altering results cannot be expected to provide considerable weight loss. While the component procedures of a mommy makeover (liposuction and tummy tuck surgery) are meant to help patients achieve a trimmer, more shapely body contour, the skin and fatty tissue that is removed during a mommy makeover does not typically weigh very much. There may be some residual weight loss after surgery, but this is not a result that patients should count on. This is why I advise mommy makeover patients to reach their ideal weight before their surgery.

Regardless of what has caused the skin to sag, I have seen firsthand over the years how body contouring can elevate a patient’s self-esteem and pride in their appearance. If you think you might be a good candidate for body contouring surgery or would like more information on the subject, contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott, to schedule a plastic surgery consultation. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Twitter for additional plastic surgery tips, news, and more.