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FAQs about Body Contouring

Body contouring procedures designed to eliminate sagging skin and unwanted fat deposits have been on the rise in recent years. However, there is a degree of confusion with regard to what these procedures achieve. At ReNova Plastic Surgery, we believe the most satisfied patients are those who are well-informed. Here, leading plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Clavijo-Alvarez answers the mostly commonly asked questions we hear from our body contouring patients.

Is Body Contouring a Good Way to Lose Weight?

Body contouring is not meant for weight loss. Instead, it is used to improve the shape and tone of your underlying tissue and remove excess fat and skin. Many bariatric (weight loss) surgery patients seek to sculpt their smaller body figures by removing sagging skin that no longer properly hugs the contours of the body. Body contouring procedures such as body lift, thigh lift and arm lift can get rid of the drooping skin, while liposuction removes stubborn fat around the body to achieve a more toned look.

Am I a Candidate for Body Contouring?

If you are within 30 percent of a healthy weight for your size or 15 pounds away from your ideal weight, you may be a candidate for body contouring. If you seek to reduce your body mass, it’s recommended you use diet and exercise or bariatric surgery instead of, or before, seeking body contouring procedures such as body lift and/or liposuction.

What Happens During My Pre-Op Consultation?

During your initial consultation, Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez will discuss with you your aesthetic concerns and goals, and create a personalized plan. He will also evaluate your overall health and assess any potential co-existing medical conditions that may be affected by the procedure you seek. Your one-on-one consultation is also a great time for you to ask any questions you may have regarding your procedure or plastic surgery goals.

How Do I Know Which Body Contouring Procedure is Right for Me?

The procedure you and Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez decide on will ultimately depend on your plastic surgery goals and concerns. For example, if you seek a flatter abdomen only, Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez may suggest tummy tuck surgery. If you have sagging skin on the abdomen and other parts of the body, such as the buttocks and outer thighs, a lower body lift may be more appropriate. At ReNova Plastic Surgery we offer a range of body contouring procedures, including:

  • Arm lift to remove drooping skin from the upper arms
  • Breast lift to perk up sagging, flattened breasts
  • Buttocks/ lower body lift to remove “love handles” and excess skin from the buttocks
  • Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) to eliminate excess skin and folds on the abdomen
  • Thigh lift to remove hanging skin from the inner, outer and mid-thighs

How Do I Prepare for Body Contouring?

Your weight should be stabilized before undergoing surgery. Additionally, if you smoke, it’s recommended you stop several weeks before your procedure. Smoking dramatically increases your risks of surgical complications.

What Are the Risks of Body Contouring?

Although rare, there are several risks and complications to body contouring. The most common complications are related to fluid collection within the tissues and minor wound healing problems. Other risks include scarring, and numbness. The best way to minimize your risks is to choose an experienced, qualified surgeon such as Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez. He has helped countless patients in the Pittsburgh area achieve their aesthetic goals safely.

How Long Do Results Last?

Body contouring can produce long-lasting, beautiful results. However, patients are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle following their procedure. Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez recommends that you avoid smoking, follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to ensure that your body contouring results last.

To learn more about your body contouring options, schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez. Please call ReNova Plastic Surgery today at (412) 638-2391.