Understanding Body Contouring and Sculpting Your Ideal Shape

What Is Body Contouring?

Body contouring is a general term that refers to a range of medical procedures designed to shape and enhance the body, targeting areas where stubborn fat is resistant to diet and exercise. Even with a disciplined fitness regimen and healthy diet, areas like the lower abdomen and love handles can be challenging to slim down. Stubborn pockets of fat are often influenced by factors like age, fat density, and hormones. Many patients describe this as an ongoing, relentless battle to combat these persistent areas.

Body contouring, especially when combined with liposuction, offers a powerful solution for patients seeking a more defined, sculpted look.

Key Areas for Body Contouring

Commonly treated areas include:

Abdomen
Arms
Back
Flanks (a.k.a. Love Handles)
Thighs

Some procedures may involve small incisions to remove excess skin, while others utilize advanced liposuction techniques to reshape and define. The primary goal of body contouring is not simply fat removal but to achieve a balanced, natural-looking shape that complements your physique.

Is Body Contouring a Weight Loss Solution?

It’s essential to note that body contouring is not intended as a weight loss method. Instead, these procedures are best suited for individuals with a stable weight and a body mass index (BMI) below 30. However, for those who have lost weight and struggle with excess skin, body contouring can provide a solution to smooth, tone, and tighten the body.

Skin Removal Benefits in Body Contouring

Procedures such as tummy tucks, arm lifts, thigh lifts, and liposuction with skin removal help define your shape, revealing natural curves and a smoother body profile. In cases where both fat and skin are addressed, liposuction can contour the areas that are left untouched by skin removal, adding finesse and symmetry to the final result.

Non-Surgical Body Contouring Options

While there are non-surgical body contouring devices available, it’s important to proceed with caution and to understand the limitations of these treatments. Results may vary, and expectations should be managed carefully. At A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center in Orland Park and Oak Lawn, IL, we specialize in surgical body contouring and minimally invasive body contouring for more predictable outcomes with better definition.

What to Expect During a Consultation

A consultation with Dr. Samir Shah can help you determine the best approach for your body contouring needs. During your private consultation, you will meet with our Patient Care Coordinator to identify your concerns. Dr. Shah will meet with you to review your concerns, assess the areas to be contoured, and to provide honest recommendations.

You will have the opportunity to ask questions and express any concerns you may have. We recommend writing your questions down before your consultation so that you don’t forget in the moment – read our Tips To Prepare Yourself For Your Cosmetic Consultation.

Once Dr. Shah has determined that you are a candidate and a final decision has been made, you will proceed to schedule your body contouring surgery.

What to Expect During Body Contouring Surgery

During surgery, Dr. Shah utilizes a numbing wet solution to ensure comfort. Specialized instruments are used to release and remove excess fat. For those seeking fat transfer – where fat is collected, purified, and reused to enhance areas like the breasts, face, or buttocks – Dr. Shah’s advanced techniques ensure a high rate of fat survival and retention as well as natural-looking results.

Ready to Sculpt Your Dream Body?

If you’re considering body contouring to achieve a more refined, balanced shape, request a consultation with Dr. Samir Shah at A New You Plastic Surgery and Laser Center. Reach out today to explore your options for a more sculpted, confident you. Our offices in Orland Park and Oak Lawn, IL serve patients all over the Chicagoland area and beyond. Contact us online or call us at 708.614.6600 today!

Do you live in or around Orland Park or Oak Lawn and are ready for a cosmetic consultation?
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