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A Quick Look at Body Contouring Options

Nothing in life is permanent—a truth that seems to apply particularly to our silhouettes. Changes over time cause some areas to recede and others to bulge, prompting everything from diet-based resolutions to appointments for consultations with a plastic surgeon. Anyone considering body contouring, whether an arm lift or a full Mommy Makeover at St. Louis’ West County Plastic Surgeons of Jefferson University, should know that there are a range of options, almost as varied as there are body types.

Body contouring tends to be associated with fat, whether removing it or dealing with the excess skin and lax tissue left behind after it’s gone. That said, any sudden change in volume, such as the birth of a baby or a shift in milk production in the breasts, can cause unwanted physical changes.

Because of the wide variety of reasons a person may seek body contouring, there are many options available:

Tummy Tuck

This procedure may involve removing excess skin at the belly, tightening loosened abdominal muscle tissues, and removing small pockets of fat. There are variations on this surgery to accommodate various patients—for example, those whose sagging skin sits entirely below the belly button.

Liposuction

The surgical removal of fat cells from the body, this procedure can be performed on small areas (such as the neck or knees) or larger areas (the buttocks or abdomen), but is not a weight-loss tool.

Breast Lift

Bringing downward-pointing nipples into a new position, a breast lift does not add volume (as with an augmentation), but addresses sagging.

Arm Lift

Designed to address loose skin on the upper arms, this surgical technique can create a sleeker look.

Thigh Lift

Applicable to the inner thighs, outer thighs, or both, the incisions for this contouring procedure are hidden where they will be covered by underwear or a swimsuit.

Buttock Lift

To change a sagging, deflated look, a plastic surgeon can add more volume into the buttocks, causing them to round out and make the skin tighter and smoother.

Many of these procedures can be combined into a lower body lift or total body lift. Some may also be paired with other procedures—such as a tummy tuck and breast augmentation—for a Mommy Makeover.

Discover the body contouring options at West County Plastic Surgeons of Washington University. Call (314) 996-8800 or send a message online.