Body contouring is an umbrella term that refers to the plastic surgery procedures designed to help you achieve a slimmer, more toned body figure. If you’re considering a body contouring treatment, Dr. Joseph Michaels would like to help. Here, he answers commonly asked questions regarding body contouring.
Can I Lose Weight with Body Contouring?
This is one of the most common questions Dr. Michaels hears from his patients. Body contouring procedures are designed to produce a more flattering and attractive body shape. However, these procedures are not meant for weight loss. In fact, body contouring is commonly performed after a patient has lost weight, either through diet and exercise or bariatric surgery. Body contouring helps eliminate saggy folds and excess skin from several parts of the body, as well as small stubborn fat deposits.
What Should I Do Before My Procedure?
In order to ensure optimal results, Dr. Michaels will ask you to do several things in preparation for your surgery. You should maintain a healthy and stable weight; ideal candidates should be within approximately 15 pounds of their ideal weight. You will also be asked to stop smoking and abstain from taking certain medications. Last but definitely not least, ask questions! Your pre-op consultation is the perfect time to ask Dr. Michaels questions about how to prepare for surgery, the procedure itself and the recovery process.
What is the Recovery Like?
Following the procedure, you may experience swelling, soreness and bruising. This is all temporary, however. During this time you will have to avoid any strenuous or vigorous activity, such as exercising, bending and lifting. Most patients are fully recovered six weeks after the procedure. It is important to remember that every patient and surgery is different; Dr. Michaels can give you a more accurate assessment of your recovery timeline during a post-op consultation.
How Do I Decide Which Procedure is Best for Me?
This will ultimately depend on your aesthetic concerns and goals. A thigh lift can be performed to eliminate excess skin from the upper thighs, while an arm lift removes loose upper arm skin. A lower body lift eliminates loose skin from the back, sides and lower abdomen for a firmer and smoother contour. Liposuction removes targeted pockets of stubborn fat on the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, back and upper arms. Liposuction is commonly combined with other body contouring procedures like tummy tuck surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Michaels will customize a surgical plan tailored to your exact concerns.
Do You Have More Questions?
To learn more about your body contouring options, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Joseph Michaels. Please call (301) 468-5991 in Bethesda or (703) 957-8610 in Fairfax today.
