Body Contouring Surgery in New Orleans, LA

Body contouring surgery is a term used to describe any cosmetic surgery that enhances and reshapes a body part. It is used to redefine the breasts during breast lift surgery, as well as tone the tummy using abdominoplasty. These are just two examples among many that our Metairie plastic surgeons offer their patients. Whether it is the breast, tummy, arms, thighs or buttocks, body contouring trims away loose skin and tightens the remaining skin for a more toned look. Liposuction is usually incorporated during surgery to remove unwanted fat. These surgeries are performed for both men and women whose bodies have been impacted by weight loss, pregnancy or aging, and can create a gorgeous new contour and silhouette. 

Body contouring surgery can reshape, tighten and rejuvenate almost any area of the body, creating a newer, sleeker contour. In many cases, liposuction will be included during surgery. Common areas addressed include the neck, arms, breasts, abdomen, hips, buttocks, knees and thighs. During the initial consultation, the areas of the body that cause concern will be assessed and a surgery plan will be discussed. Some procedures may be combined into one surgery. For some individuals, in order to achieve the desired results, multiple surgeries may need to be staged over time.

All body contouring procedures are performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. The duration of the surgery and the time spent in the hospital will depend on what surgery was performed, as well as how many were combined. While the recovery can be somewhat trying, the majority of patients feel that a new, tighter body is worth it. Patients will notice marked improvement with sagging features, as well as see a smoother skin appearance. Patients should adhere to a healthy lifestyle, and limit sun exposure so the surgical results are not compromised.

During the consultation, the surgeon will assess the overall physical health of the patient to determine what procedures should be performed, and how many in a single setting. Depending how many body parts will be addressed, as well as the extent of the surgeries, certain procedures will be grouped together. In many cases, the upper body will be addressed in one surgery and the lower in another.  Staging the procedures helps to reduce the risk of complications such as blood loss and infection, as well as minimize the length of time it takes to recover.

Body contouring is very common among weight loss patients. Most plastic surgeons will want the patient to be at or as close to their goal weight as possible. Patients who find it difficult to lose additional pounds because of loose and hanging skin can usually move forward with a skin reduction or body contouring procedure. This takes them over the “hump” and allows them to become more mobile which helps lose the final pounds.

In some degree, yes. A mommy makeover simply groups together certain body contouring procedures to address the most common body parts affected by pregnancy. This usually entails the breast, abdomen, hips and buttocks. While body contouring itself can apply to many other areas on the body, a mommy makeover typically only addresses the areas affected by pregnancy, childbirth and nursing.

Some body contouring procedures will result in scarring. However, the surgeon will make every effort possible to minimize these scars. In most cases, they will be hidden under bathing suit garments and within the natural folds of the skin. Some scarring may be evident, but these will lighten over time. Most patients feel the results of a body contouring procedure are worth it and the scars become secondary.