The human body is complex, and no two bodies are the same. What works for some might not work for others, especially when it comes to shaping your body. Even if you’re doing all the exercises and following a strict diet, sometimes getting in shape can feel like an uphill battle.
But with advancements in technology, there’s no need to worry anymore. Body contouring offers a solution to help you achieve your desired body shape.
To learn more about body contouring and how long its effects can last, read on till the end.
What is Body Contouring?
Body contouring is also known as body sculpting. It refers to a range of cosmetic procedures designed to reshape and improve the body’s appearance by addressing areas with excess fat, loose skin, or poor definition.
These procedures can be surgical or non-surgical, depending on the desired outcomes and the individual’s preferences.
What are the Different Types of Body Contouring?
Body sculpture procedures are of different types, from non-invasive or minimally invasive, non-surgical techniques to invasive surgical techniques:
Non-Surgical Body Contouring
Non-surgical body contouring is also called non-surgical fat reduction or lipolysis technique. This procedure helps remove or reduce fat with a minimally invasive, non-surgical approach and shapes the specific area of the body. This procedure is ideal for people whose body index mass is not over 30.
The advantage of this procedure is that it allows you to jump back into daily activities immediately. There are four types of non-surgical body contouring approaches:
Cryolipolysis
Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive fat reduction technique that uses devices like CoolSculpting, which has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This technique is used in specific areas of the body, such as the thighs, arms, double chin, abdomen, buttocks, and more.
This technique works by targeting the specific area with excessive fat cells and killing them using cold temperatures. Eventually, the destroyed fat cells exit the body through the lymphatic system.
Laser Lipolysis
Laser lipolysis kills the fat cells at the target area of the body using laser energy and high temperature. This procedure mainly focuses on areas like the abdomen and flanks of the body.
The first step is directing the laser energy at the target area with the fat cells to create heat. Then, the high temperature destroys them. The dead fat cells are eventually cleared out within 12 to 13 weeks, approximately by the lymphatic system of the body.
Injection Lipolysis
Injection lipolysis is designed to target and reduce localised fat deposits through a series of fat-dissolving injections. It is most effective for small, stubborn fat pockets that are resistant to diet and exercise. The injection generally contains deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps break down and absorb dietary fat.
When this active ingredient is injected at the targeted area, it helps in breaking down the fat cells and kills them. The dead fat cells are eventually metabolised by the body within a few weeks and eliminated.
Surgical Body Contouring
Surgical body contouring is an invasive procedure that includes incision and removal of excess fat cells and skin from a specific area of the body to contour the body. The commonly targeted areas are arms, back, buttocks, belly, flanks, thighs, neck, chin, etc.
This procedure is done in series to balance the aesthetic and to retract the skin. Thus, a proper recovery and healing period is given before the next surgery to avoid complications and to minimise the strain on the body. However, the complete recovery and healing period after the whole treatment process will be around 3–6 months.
Types of Surgical Approaches for Body Contouring
There are various surgical procedures available to address specific areas of the body, each designed to contour and enhance different regions. Below are some of the most common types of surgical body contouring procedures:
- Liposuction: Liposuction is a popular cosmetic procedure that removes excess fat deposits from targeted areas such as the abdomen, thighs, flanks, or arms.
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): A tummy tuck is a procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while tightening the underlying muscles.
- Lower Body Lift: The lower body lift, also known as a belt lipectomy, is a comprehensive procedure that targets the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and flanks.
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy): A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a procedure that lifts and reshapes sagging breasts.
Does Body Contouring Hurt?
Body Contouring may cause pain or discomfort. The intensity of pain depends on the type of procedure and the individual’s pain tolerance. However, the medication is given for pain after the procedure.
In the case of the surgical approach, the anaesthesia is given to numb the body prior to the surgery. Also, most people find it therapeutic and minimal discomfort.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
Once the procedure is completed, in the case of a non-surgical approach, most people immediately jump back into their routine. It has a shorter recovery and healing period than the surgical approach.
In the case of the surgical approach, a thin tube adjacent to the incision is made to drain excess fluids and prevent any infection.
However, post-care is essential. It includes:
- Using the medication for pain and infection
- Taking rest for efficient recovery
- Changing the bandages
- Proper care of drains
- Wearing compression garments
- Reporting any discomfort or pain immediately
How Long Does Body Contouring Results Last?
The longevity of body contouring results varies depending on the type of procedure, individual factors, and lifestyle habits. Generally, surgical body contouring procedures can provide long-lasting results, but they are not entirely permanent. On average, the results can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or longer with proper maintenance.
Non-surgical procedures may offer temporary results, lasting 6 months to 2 years, depending on the treatment and individual response.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of Results
- Weight Maintenance: Maintaining a stable weight is crucial to prolong the results of body contouring procedures.
- Lifestyle Factors: A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, plays a significant role in maintaining the results of body contouring.
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun can damage the skin and reduce its elasticity, affecting the results of body contouring.
- Genetics: Some people have more resilient skin and tissue, while others may experience sagging or changes over time due to their genetic makeup.
Genetics: Some people have more resilient skin and tissue, while others may experience sagging or changes over time due to their genetic makeup.
Wrapping Up
Body contouring can be a great way to reshape and improve your body, with both surgical and non-surgical options available. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations, as natural changes over time, like aging or weight changes, can still affect the results. Additionally, choosing a qualified specialist is also necessary to ensure safety and the best possible outcomes.
If you’re looking for the best body contouring in Westminster, CO, contact Renew You Medical Wellness! We offer innovative technology, including fat freezing and EMS muscle stimulation devices, to deliver noticeable results without surgery. Moreover, we provide personalised treatment plans to suit your unique body composition and aesthetic goals, helping you achieve the best results.
