Home Surgical and Non-Surgical Body Contouring Procedures

Surgical and Non-Surgical Body Contouring Procedures

Body contouring involves cosmetic procedures that reshape various areas of the body to create a slimmer, firmer, and more toned appearance and feel. These procedures can remove or tighten loose skin, eliminate excess fat, and sculpt or contour specific areas. Historically, plastic surgery was the only effective method for body sculpting and reshaping. However, such surgery can be expensive, involve significant recovery time, and carry various risks and side effects. Fortunately, advancements in technology have significantly improved non-surgical body contouring techniques. Dr. Green’s NYC dermatology office offers innovative, non-surgical cosmetic body-sculpting procedures that consistently deliver impressive results with no downtime.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to care for our bodies, including regular exercise and a well-balanced diet. However, these practices aren’t always enough to reach our ideal body shape. Body contouring procedures target stubborn fat deposits, loose skin, and cellulite that don’t respond to other weight-loss and muscle-building methods. These procedures are not intended for weight loss or treating obesity, but rather to address excess skin after significant weight loss or persistent fat deposits in areas where other methods have failed. Today, non-surgical body contouring treatments like CoolSculpting, Thermage, Kybella, and Velashape are more popular than ever. The industry has grown into a nearly one-billion-dollar market, with millions of patients worldwide choosing state-of-the-art non-surgical body contouring technologies.

To ensure the treatment you provide achieves the desired results, is safe, and is effective, it is essential to consult with an experienced, knowledgeable professional. Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized expert in cosmetic dermatology, including non-invasive body contouring treatments. Consistently ranked as one of New York’s top physicians by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors, Dr. Green has helped some of the most discerning men and women worldwide attain their ideal body contouring and rejuvenation goals. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Green customizes her patients’ treatment plans and selects the non-invasive cosmetic procedures best suited to each individual’s unique skin concerns and aesthetic objectives.

Is body contouring a form of weight loss?

Body contouring is often thought of as a weight-loss solution. However, body contouring primarily aims to tighten loose skin and reduce the appearance of stubborn pockets of fat, particularly in areas where traditional weight-loss methods, such as diet and exercise, have proven ineffective. While the results of body contouring can be long-lasting, achieving permanent outcomes depends on maintaining a stable weight after the procedure.

What is body contouring?

Body contouring refers to cosmetic procedures designed to reshape specific areas of the body, providing individuals with a slimmer, firmer, and more toned appearance. These procedures can include removing or tightening loose skin, eliminating excess fatty tissue, and targeted sculpting of specific regions. Common treatment areas for body contouring include the abdomen, chin (submental area), upper arms, outer and inner thighs, buttocks, hips, and flanks (often called love handles). Candidates for these procedures are generally encouraged to be within 30 pounds of their target weight before undergoing treatment. This prerequisite ensures that individuals are in a position to maintain their results through regular exercise and a balanced diet after the procedure.

Types of Body Contouring

In terms of options, both surgical and non-surgical approaches are available, each offering unique advantages and potential risks or side effects. Surgical options may lead to more pronounced results, but they typically involve longer recovery times. Conversely, non-surgical treatments have gained popularity for their minimally invasive nature and quicker recovery periods. With advancements in medical technology, numerous non-invasive body contouring treatments are now available, such as CoolSculpting, Thermage, and Velashape. Additionally, non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lifts using dermal fillers have emerged as a desirable option for those looking to enhance their curves without undergoing major surgery. Many of these body contouring procedures are performed by experienced dermatologists, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, who specialize in cosmetic treatments. These professionals can provide tailored recommendations based on individual goals, skin types, and parts of the body. Overall, while body contouring can yield significant improvements in appearance and boost self-confidence, it is essential to approach these procedures with a realistic understanding of their purpose and maintain healthy habits for the best long-term results.

Body Contouring with Plastic Surgery

Body contouring surgery involves removing excess skin through invasive procedures. These surgical options include liposuction, a “mommy makeover,” a lower body lift, a breast lift, abdominoplasty, a thigh lift, an arm lift, breast augmentation, and other cosmetic surgeries designed to eliminate stubborn fat deposits and excess skin. When considering plastic or reconstructive surgery, it is always best to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to minimize risks. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, some potential risks and side effects associated with cosmetic surgery include skin infection, scarring from improper wound healing, deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications, internal bleeding, perforation of internal organs, and complications related to general anesthesia. Body contouring results from surgical procedures are usually immediately visible; however, more downtime is often needed, and returning to normal routines can be very gradual. Full recovery from body contouring surgery typically takes a few weeks to a year, depending on the procedure. When you see Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC, she will refer you to a trusted board-certified plastic surgeon for a consultation if she determines you are not a good candidate for non-surgical body contouring.

How do non-surgical body contouring procedures work?

There is an array of body contouring procedures that can all be performed without surgery or downtime. These procedures include Coolsculpting®, which targets fat cells in the treated area; treatments such as Thermage FLX® and Velashape, which use radiofrequency technology to contour and tighten the skin; and Kybella injections to reduce fat permanently. As it grows and technological improvements advance, non-surgical body contouring includes more than just fat-reduction treatments. Treatments have expanded to address cellulite, sagging skin, and skin rejuvenation in many body areas.

LL coolsculpting 10m FRONT 2 MGwatermark

Before & After photo: CoolSculpting, 10 months

What is non-surgical body contouring?

Many non-surgical body contouring options are available for patients who are hesitant about “going under the knife” and want to avoid cosmetic surgery to achieve their ideal body shape. These procedures use technologies like cold therapy, cryotherapy, massage, lasers, or injectable treatments to enhance body contour and skin appearance. Non-surgical body contouring can reduce stubborn fat, tighten loose skin, and diminish cellulite. Thanks to these treatment options, patients can achieve natural-looking, long-lasting body sculpting results with minimal downtime.

Many benefits come with non-surgical fat reduction compared to surgical options. Patients often hesitate to choose surgery for several reasons, including the fact that it requires significant recovery time and carries a higher risk of complications or side effects. To target stubborn fat pockets, Dr. Green may recommend non-surgical procedures like CoolSculpting, which cools and destroys fat cells, or Kybella, an injectable treatment that dissolves fat. As the natural aging process can cause skin to become lax, there are also non-surgical skin-tightening options, such as Thermage laser treatment, which is known for delivering excellent results. Cellulite on the body can also be improved with non-surgical methods, such as Velashape radiofrequency lipolysis. These non-surgical options deliver effective results and wellness benefits without the risks or downtime of surgery. Plus, the effects of Kybella and CoolSculpting are permanent.

Does body contouring work?

Yes! Body contouring procedures are highly effective for reducing stubborn fat deposits, eliminating the appearance of cellulite, tightening loose skin, and generally helping patients achieve their desired body shape and contour. Both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures are available for body contouring. When deciding between surgical and non-surgical options, it’s important to consider your specific needs and aesthetic goals. Surgical methods offer more dramatic and immediate results but carry a higher risk of side effects and significantly longer recovery times. Conversely, non-surgical options require no downtime and typically produce natural-looking results that often become more noticeable over time.

Non-invasive body contouring has become extremely popular due to its low cost and the absence of invasive surgery or recovery time. Moreover, techniques like CoolSculpting and Kybella provide permanent results, which is why many people are opting for non-invasive options over traditional surgery. Nooptions body contouring is highly effective, requires no downtime, and can often be more affordable than surgical procedures. When performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Michele Green, non-surgical treatments can be excellent alternatives to cosmetic surgery.

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is an invasive surgical procedure performed under regional, local, or general anesthesia. Depending on the amount of excess fat and the areas of the body being treated, most patients prefer the comfort of general anesthesia. The liposuction process involves making a small incision in the skin and inserting a cannula to remove fat. Some plastic surgeons use the tumescent liposuction technique, which can lead to complications. The procedure garments are worn for two weeks after surgery, and bruising is an expected side effect. The final results are visible six to 12 months after liposuction. Liposuction can be combined with other surgical procedures, such as facelifts and tummy tucks, to achieve desired cosmetic results. Liposuction is not a weight-loss technique, as weight loss is not associated with liposuction. I wish fat cells were permanently gone. One problem with liposuction is that, after several months, the fat can redistribute to other areas of the body, and the overall body fat generally returns to its pre-liposuction level.

What is an Abdominoplasty or Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin from the abdominal area to create a smoother, firmer abdominal profile. As we age, the body stops producing collagen and elastin, leading to a decline in skin elasticity. Significant weight loss or pregnancy can also lead to excess skin laxity and hanging skin. Additionally, during pregnancy, many patients experience separation of the abdominal muscles, called diastasis, which weakens the walls and makes them difficult to tone. An abdominoplasty is the best option for patients with separated abdominal muscles and loose, sagging skin. However, it is wise to wait for this surgery if you are planning another pregnancy.

Who is a good candidate for non-surgical body sculpting?

A good candidate for body contouring treatment is a healthy individual within 10-30 pounds of their ideal weight. If you experience significant weight loss or gain, non-invasive body contouring may not be the best option for your needs. A perfect patient for non-surgical fat removal should be in generally good health and have a localized fat area that does not respond to diet and exercise. For skin-tightening body contouring treatments, ideal candidates are in good health with mild skin laxity. To understand if you are a good candidate for a body contouring procedure, it is best to consult with an expert like Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience providing the best non-invasive cosmetic treatment options available to hs from around the globe, including non-surgical body contouring treatments. Dr. Green will work with you individually to determine which unique combination of treatments best suits your cosmetic goals.

What is CoolSculpting and Cryolipolysis?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive body-contouring procedure that uses cryolipolysis to eliminate stubborn fat cells from the targeted area permanently. It entails applying intense cold to an area of the body with a stubborn fat deposit. Various CoolSculpting applicators in different shapes and sizes allow for precise treatment of fat deposits in other body areas and a contoured result. The applicator is positioned over the treatment area, and a light suction gently pulls the area into the applicator as it freezes the fat cells. The fat cells in the treated area crystallize, are broken down by the body, and are eliminated through the lymphatic system as waste. Since fat cells freeze at higher temperatures than other tissues, the surrounding cells remain unharmed. After one session, CoolSculpting has been shown to eliminate fat cells in the treatment area. Results from a CoolSculpting session are not immediate, as the body gradually eliminates fat cells over about six months. A second session, if recommended, is typically performed four to twelve weeks after the initial procedure and can result in up to a 40% reduction in unwanted fibroblasts in the treatment area.

This non-invasive treatment is FDA-approved for nine areas of the body, including the submental area (under the chin), bra fat, upper arms, abdomen, love handles, inner and outer thighs, “banana roll” under the buttocks, and the fat above the knees. Dr. Michele Green’s office offers the latest CoolSculpting applicators: CoolMini, CoolFit, CoolCurve, CoolSmooth, CoolCore, and CoolAdvantage Plus. Depending on the area’s size and shape, the applicator may be used in a single session.

Before & After: Male Patient with CoolSculpting treatment

Who is a good candidate for CoolSculpting?

A good candidate for CoolSculpting, a non-surgical fat reduction treatment, is an adult who struggles with stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. Candidates should also have good physical and mental health and realistic expectations about their results. CoolSculpting is not intended for weight loss. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will physically evaluate the treatment area to determine if you are a suitable candidate for CoolSculpting.

What is Kybella and deoxycholic acid?

Kybella is a cosmetic injectable composed of synthetic deoxycholic acid. It is currently the only FDA-approved injection for reducing the chin, effectively eliminating a double chin. Deoxycholic acid is a substance produced by the body in the gut, where it helps break down fat cells. It can disrupt adipocytic membranes, ultimately destroying the tissue in the treatment area into which it is injected. Similar to CSimilaring, the fat cells destroyed by Kybella injections are naturally metabolized and permanently eliminated. Kybella is injected into the submental area, and the fat that causes your “double chin” is dissolved. The result is a chiseled jawline with no more “double chin.” With minimal downtime for swelling and potential bruising, it can be alleviated with over-the-counter Arnica, a natural supplement that speeds healing. An expert injector, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, can also use Kybella to diminish stubborn pockets of excess fat in the knees, abdomen, and bra fat area.

What is Thermage?

Thermage is an FDA-approved skin-tightening technology that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen formation in the treatment area, resulting in tighter, smoother, firmer skin and enhanced contour for a more youthful appearance. The latest version of the non-surgical skin-tightening procedure, Thermage FLX®, is approved to treat many body areas, including the face, neck, upper arms, buttocks, under eyes, hands, knees, and thighs. Thermage targets the collagen-rich dermis and the fiber septae in the subcutaneous adipose tissue layer by bulk-heating and uniformly distributing heat energy to denature and then remold collagen. The result is an immediate collagen contraction from the heat and a progressive collagen remodeling from the body’s natural immune response to the controlled trauma the heat from Thermage FLX® creates. There is no downtime, so patients can resume their usual daily activities immediately after the procedure. The results can take up to 6 weeks to become visible, with collagen continuing to form for up to 6 months after treatment. The cosmetic results last up to 2 years, and most patients undergo annual treatment sessions to maintain optimal results.

Who is a good candidate for Thermage?

The ideal candidates for Thermage are individuals in good overall physical and mental health who have noticed or want to prevent fine lines, wrinkles, cellulite, and loose skin. As a non-invasive procedure, Thermage is best suited for those with realistic expectations about their cosmetic results and who prefer subtle improvements over the more dramatic changes often associated with cosmetic surgery. Thermage treatment for skin rejuvenation can be performed on all skin types and age groups. Thermage radiofrequency offers skin tightening without the need for surgery or downtime.

Other Non-Invasive Body Contouring Procedures

VelaShape radiofrequency for body contouring

VelaShape III® is a non-invasive body contouring treatment. The treatment combines multiple technologies used to reduce cellulite and circumferential reduction. VelaShape technology includes mechanical massage, radiofrequency, infrared light, and vacuum suction. Infrared light and bipolar radiofrequency energy warm the dermal and underlying tissues, which causes the fat cells to metabolize and break down. The body then naturally eliminates the fat cells and other toxins. The mechanical massage component gently stimulates the skin, increasing circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage, thereby removing toxins and fat cells from the treated area. The vacuum suction smooths out cellulite by manipulating the fibrous bands in the epidermis, which reduces the appearance of dimpling in the skin (cellulite).

Red LED light therapy for body contouring

Red light body contouring is a non-invasive procedure that uses LED light to tone and slim areas such as the hips, waist, upper arms, and thighs. Exposure to red LED light is thought to target fat cells just below the surface, penetrating the cell membrane to allow for fat to leak out; this fat is then excreted through waste or burned off as energy. By effectively reducing stubborn fat cells, red light therapy sculpts and reshapes the treatment area, resulting in a slimmer, more contoured appearance.

Photonic laser body contouring

Photonic body contouring is a non-invasive procedure that shrinks fat cells using laser light. The light used during this treatment stimulates the mitochondria, a cellular component, of fat cells. Photonic body contouring is a non-invasive procedure that shrinks fat cells using laser light. The light used during this treatment stimulates the mitochondria, a cellular component of fat cells, to open cell wall pores and release fatty acids, glycerol, triglycerides, and water out of the cell. The empty fat cell then shrinks and collapses. The wavelength used does not harm any surrounding cells or capillaries.

EON radiofrequency body contouring

EON is a unique, automated, non-surgical body-contouring treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy subcutaneous fat cells. The innovative laser technology maps the targeted area of each patient’s customized treatment. It uses a 1064 nm wavelength to target fat cells without harming other tissues. The dead fat cells are then excreted through the lymphatic system. This treatment is safe and effective for reducing fat, tightening skin, and improving the appearance of cellulite in the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. During Eon, the device does not come into contact with the body.

Evolve radiofrequency body contouring.

Evolve is a non-invasive body-contouring procedure that uses radiofrequency, vacuum technology, and electrical stimulation to sculpt the body, reduce fat cells, tighten loose skin, and tone muscles. The Trim mode combines radiofrequency and vacuum suction to heat and destroy adipose cells, reducing fat. The Tite mode firms the skin by using radiofrequency heat to stimulate collagen production. The tone mode stimulates muscles with electricity to contract continuously, improving muscle strength. Treatment typically takes between 20 minutes and one hour. You can resume your daily activities right away after completing Evolve. Most patients need between 3 and 8 treatments to achieve ideal results. Evolve can be used on the abdomen, flanks, thighs, buttocks, and arms.

Emsculpt electromagnetic body contouring

Emsculpt is an FDA-approved, non-invasive body sculpting treatment designed specifically for people who want to build additional muscle mass and tone in areas of the body, such as the abdominal muscles and buttocks. Emsculpt uses electromagnetic energy to cause powerful muscle contractions in the treatment area. This, in turn, stimulates the body’s muscles, adding tone to the muscle tissue. Emsculpt induces supramaximal muscle contractions throughout the body to improve shape, which works more effectively than voluntary contractions, such as gym-based exercise techniques. This non-invasive body contouring approach works well for people with a relatively low Body Mass Index (BMI). It can also benefit other individuals looking for additional fat reduction in the abdomen or buttocks. Treatment typically consists of four 30-minute sessions, generally scheduled two to three days apart.

Sculpsure hyperthermic laser body contouring

SculpSure is an FDA-approved hyperthermic laser for fat removal. SculpSure removes stubborn fat by heating it to break up fat cells, which are later metabolized by the body. The laser delivers heat energy to the targeted treatment areas and is approved to treat submental fat, the abdomen, inner and outer thighs, and flanks. Sculpsure is not designed for weight loss. One of the benefits of SculpSure, as a non-surgical procedure, is that the average treatment takes 25 minutes with no downtime. After your procedure, you can resume your normal activities. SculpSure has been shown to reduce excess fat by up to 24% in a treatment area within twelve weeks. Multiple treatment sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired fat reduction.

Does non-surgical body contouring work?

Non-surgical body contouring is an excellent option for individuals who are close to their ideal weight and want to enhance their body shape. This innovative approach offers a range of treatment options, including cryolipolysis, which freezes and destroys fat cells; radiofrequency energy, which uses heat to tighten skin and reduce fat; and ultrasound, which targets and breaks down fat deposits. As technology evolves, these methods continue to improve in effectiveness and safety, providing individuals with non-invasive alternatives to traditional surgical procedures. Each treatment can be tailored to a person’s specific needs, making it easier to achieve desired aesthetic results without the downtime associated with surgery.

What is the best body contouring procedure?

When it comes to finding the best body contouring procedure, there is no one “best” option. Several FDA-cleared procedures are available, each proven to achieve remarkable results, and each benefits from a customized treatment plan to determine the best outcome. A consultation with a board-certified dermatologist, certified and trained in non-surgical body contouring techniques, is the best way to learn which non-surgical body contouring treatment is right for you and to target the specific concerns you want to address.

6 months Before and After Coolsculpting & Thermage for arms

Body Contouring Surgery Options

What is an Arm lift?

Arm lift surgery, also known as brachioplasty, is a procedure to remove excess fat and loose skin under the arms. Some patients refer to this extra skin as “bat wings” because of its saggy look. As you age, the skin on your arms becomes crepey and loose. Losing a lot of weight can make this worse, causing sagging and excess skin. An arm lift extends from the armpits to the elbows, removing the extra sagging skin. This procedure will leave significant scars and requires general anesthesia, several hours of surgery, and weeks of recovery.

What is a Breast lift?

Breast augmentation is a type of breast surgery that adds volume, using breast implants (silicone or other materials). In a breast lift, or mastopexy, the breast tissue is tightened, and the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position on the chest. A breast lift will not cause volume or weight loss, although many patients lose a cup size because tightening loose skin naturally reduces size. This surgical procedure typically takes one to two hours to complete. A breast lift is considered major plastic surgery, and the recovery period is about six weeks.

What is a Lower Body Lift?

A lower body lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and pockets of stubborn fat from the buttocks, waist, groin, and outer thighs. This is a common surgery performed on patients who have experienced significant weight loss. Other candidates for a lower body lift may have excess skin and fat due to genetics or aging. Most patients need to avoid or limit normal activities for at least six weeks after the procedure, and it can take up to a year for the scars to fully heal.

What is an Abdominoplasty?

What is an Inner thigh lift?

An inner thigh lift, also called a thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgery that removes extra skin and stubborn fat deposits from the inner thighs. Most patients opt for an inner thigh lift after significant weight loss. Major weight loss in the thighs can cause loose skin, chafing, and irritation. Reshaping the inner thighs with a thighplasty can improve contour, tone, and comfort. It is important to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for an inner thigh lift. Thighplasty is done under general anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure. Incisions are made near the groin and, depending on the type of thighplasty, may extend down toward the knee, around the hip and back, or down the back of the thigh. This cosmetic surgery usually takes about 2 hours, unless combined with other procedures such as a butt lift or a lower body lift. Patients are typically advised to rest at home for 2 weeks after surgery and to wear compression stockings for 6 weeks. The final results are usually visible around six months after the procedure.

What is a Brazilian Butt Lift?

A Brazilian Butt Lift is a cosmetic procedure to enhance the buttocks. There are surgical ways to perform a BBL, with liposuction and fat transfer to the buttocks. However, the more popular treatment option is non-surgical body contouring via BBL with Sculptra injections. Liquid Sculptra, a dermal filler, is injected into the buttocks every four weeks for at least 3 to 4 sessions to give you an enhanced buttock lift, a look that has become so popular since the Kardashians embraced it.

Is body contouring worth it?

Yes! For patients frustrated by stubborn fat deposits, loose skin, cellulite, or other concerns related to their body’s shape, body contouring treatment with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon is worth it. Patients can enjoy long-lasting to permanent results without significant downtime, thanks to the wide range of body contouring procedures now available. Body contouring refers to cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, for reshaping almost any body area. In the past, plastic surgery was the only answer to these issues. Now, with the advances in technology, we can use non-invasive procedures to reduce the size of body areas, lessen skin laxity, and diminish the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks. When diet and exercise alone fail to deliver the body of your dreams, non-invasive body contouring can be the answer. Non-invasive body contouring or body sculpting can help restore your body shape. These non-surgical procedures can be performed without any recovery time. In Dr. Michele Green’s NYC, many treatment options can help you achieve better body proportions and improve your figure, and it is always worth it to look and feel your best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is body contouring safe?

Non-invasive body contouring procedures are safe and effective options for body shaping when performed by a board-certified expert, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York. Techniques such as CoolSculpting, Kybella, Thermage, Velashape III, and BBL are FDA-approved methods that can significantly enhance a patient’s body shape. Patients should never undergo these treatments with an unqualified or inexperienced health care provider, as the results are long-lasting and the technology used can cause damage if misused. It’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, to avoid unwanted side effects.

A board-certified plastic surgeon should always perform body contouring surgery to ensure safety, effectiveness, and the best aesthetic results. It is crucial to consult with the plastic surgeon beforehand to confirm you are a suitable candidate for cosmetic surgery. During your consultation, the plastic surgeon will ask about your medical history and review any previous procedures you may have had. After body contouring surgery, it is essential to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions.

Is body contouring permanent?

Surgical body contouring procedures can provide permanent results when patients follow healthy lifestyle practices after their treatment. Non-surgical body contouring options can offer long-lasting to permanent effects, depending on the specific procedure. The results are generally permanent. Fat-reduction treatments like Kybella and CoolSculpting are non-surgical options that can permanently eliminate excess fat cells or cellulite dimples. However, it is important to note that these treatments cannot prevent new fat cells or cellulite from forming. Patients should continue their healthy routines after the procedure to maintain optimal results. Any fat cells or cellulite dimples that these procedures have effectively addressed will be eliminated permanently. Non-surgical skin-tightening treatments like VelaShape and Thermage provide long-lasting results, though most patients undergo regular maintenance sessions to maintain their appearance.

Is body contouring legit?

Absolutely! Body contouring has become a well-recognized cosmetic procedure, offering a variety of FDA-approved and safe options for individuals seeking to enhance their body shape. These treatments may include liposuction, CoolSculpting, and laser contouring, each designed to target stubborn fat deposits and enhance overall aesthetics. While these procedures are generally considered safe, it is crucial to have them performed by a board-certified dermatologist or a licensed professional. Such experts have the training and experience to tailor treatment to your unique body type and goals, thereby minimizing the risk of adverse effects and ensuring optimal results. Choosing a qualified professional also helps manage expectations and understand the post-treatment care required for the best outcomes.

Does body contouring hurt?

In general, non-invasive body contouring techniques are pain-free. Injectable treatments like Kybella and dermal fillers are typically administered after a topical numbing cream is applied to prevent patient discomfort. CoolSculpting and Thermage treatments can cause a slight numbing or heating sensation along the skin that may feel uncomfortable initially but typically subsides after the first few minutes of a treatment session. One of the best reasons to consider non-invasive body contouring procedures is that these techniques are painless and have minimal to no recovery time.

Is body contouring dangerous?

Surgical body contouring procedures can be dangerous if you are not an appropriate candidate for the procedure or if an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon does not perform them. Non-surgical body contouring can result in poor cosmetic outcomes or unwanted side effects if performed by an expert, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Muchele Green.

Who can perform body contouring?

A board-certified medical professional can safely and effectively perform body contouring procedures. Body contouring surgery should be performed only by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. For non-surgical body contouring procedures, it is always recommended to consult a board-certified dermatologist for the best results. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience and an expert in cosmetic non-invasive body contouring techniques. Her patients’ safety and satisfaction are her top priorities, and she is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you work with Dr. Green, you can rest assured that your body contouring experience will be catered to your needs and aesthetic goals, leaving you looking and feeling like the best version of yourself.

Does insurance cover body contouring?

Weight-loss surgery is usually covered by insurance because it may be deemed medically necessary to treat obesity and improve overall health. Obesity is often associated with other chronic conditions, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, and high blood sugar. Cosmetic body contouring surgeries and non-surgical body contouring procedures typically are not covered by insurance. The best way to determine which body contouring procedures are covered is to contact your individual insurance provider.

How much does body contouring cost?

The total cost of body contouring can vary greatly depending on whether you are undergoing a surgical or non-surgical procedure, the size and scope of the treatment area, the geographic location of the office in which you are treated, and the experience level of your provider. Plastic surgery is more costly than non-surgical body contouring treatments, although non-surgical procedures require multiple treatment sessions over time. Although it may be more inexpensive to have non-surgical body contouring procedures in a medical spa setting, the likelihood of not achieving the desired results and the risk of experiencing unwanted side effects is higher when you seek treatment from someone other than a board-certified dermatologist. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to develop a personalized body contouring treatment plan that will best address your particular concerns and achieve your ideal cosmetic goals. The cost of your body contouring treatment can be determined at that time.

How long does body contouring take?

Depending on the type of body contouring procedure, the treatment could take anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours. Non-surgical body contouring procedures take less time to complete than surgical procedures. However, multiple treatment sessions may be required when undergoing non-surgical procedures. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to create a customized plan for body contouring. At that time, you will be informed of the estimated time for your body contouring procedure.

How long does body contouring last?

The longevity of your body contouring results ultimately depends on the type of procedure you undergo and the healthy lifestyle habits you maintain afterward. Body contouring procedures can provide long-lasting or permanent cosmetic results, though the exact duration varies. For example, results from fat reduction treatments like Kybella and CoolSculpting are permanent, as these treatments eliminate fat cells from the body. In contrast, skin-tightening laser treatments such as Thermage FLX tend to last for a shorter period. Thermage FLX produces results that can last up to 12 months, with two operators in skin care. Additionally, dermal filler treatments like Sculptra are long-lasting, with results that can endure for up to two years. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to create a personalized body contouring plan and schedule treatment sessions to help you look and feel your best.

How to get started with body contouring today

Despite our best efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle — regular exercise and a well-balanced diet — achieving our ideal body shape can be difficult. Stubborn pockets of excess fat, loose skin, and cellulite can be especially challenging skin concerns to improve without professional help. Plastic surgery, while effective for body sculpting, can be costly, often requires significant downtime, and carries potential risks and side effects. Luckily, non-surgical body contouring treatments like Thermage, Kybella, CoolSculpting, and VelaShape can diminish the appearance of problem areas without significant downtime or discomfort. It is important to consult with an expert in non-invasive body contouring procedures, such as Dr. Green in NYC, to ensure the best cosmetic results and a safe, effective treatment.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the most discerning individuals with their ideal body contouring results. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach to customizing each patient’s treatment plan, selecting procedures best suited to their specific concerns and overall aesthetic goals. She is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to create a body contouring treatment plan that leaves you looking and feeling like the best version of yourself. To start non-surgical body contouring and schedule a consultation with Dr. Green today, contact us online or call the NYC office at 212-535-3088.