American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 

What is Body Contouring?

Dramatic weight loss has many benefits. But after weight reduction surgery, or any substantial amount of weight loss, the skin and tissues often lack the elasticity to conform to the reduced body size.

Surgical body contouring following major weight loss removes excess sagging fat and skin while improving the shape of the underlying support tissue. The result is a more normal appearance with smoother contours.

Is it right for me?
Body contouring procedures may include:

  • Facelift: sagging of the mid-face, jowls, and neck
  • Breast lift: sagging, flattened breasts
  • Tummy tuck: apron of excess skin hanging over the abdomen
  • Lower body lifts: sagging of the abdomen, buttocks, groin, and outer thighs
  • Medial thigh lift: sagging of the inner, outer and mid thigh
  • Brachioplasty (arm lift): sagging of the upper arms

In general, good candidates for body contouring are:

  • Adults whose weight loss has stabilized
  • Healthy individuals without medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
  • Non-smokers
  • Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals
  • Individuals that are committed to leading a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and fitness
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