Body Contouring

Body contouring encompasses a vast array of procedures that are used to improve the contours of many areas of the body, including the arms, chest, abdomen, hips, flanks, thighs and legs. No area of the body is immune to the aging process and long-term effects of gravity. Skin elasticity decreases with time. Fatty tissue deposits itself in the flanks, abdomen, thighs and upper arms. All of these factors contribute to the unsightly changes associated with advancing age. Body contouring procedures are focused on reversing the aging process with respect to all areas of the body. Body contouring frequently incorporates liposuction as an adjunctive procedure.

Brachioplasty, or upper armlift, addresses the sagging and fatty deposition in the posterior upper arms, which presents usually at about age 50. Excess skin and fat is removed through incisions placed on the inner aspect of the upper arm. These incisions are relatively hidden; however, they may be visible when the arms are extended out from the body or overhead. Virtually anyone may be a candidate for upper arm lifting if they have excess skin, fat or a combination of both in the upper arms. Younger patients (less than 50 years) may benefit from liposuction alone in this area. This may be determined by a full consultation with Dr. Miller or Mary Lee Cudd. Since brachioplasty involves only skin and fat components of the arm, it is a well, tolerated operation. Occasionally, a post-operative compressive garment is utilized for anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Abdominoplasty, or the classic tummy tuck operation, addresses the deposition of fat associated with the aging process in men and women. Additionally, the ravages of pregnancy on stretching the skin and abdominal musculature can be reversed through the removal of excess skin and the approximation of the abdominal muscles. Abdominoplasty is not a weight-reduction procedure. Although generally a few pounds are shed with the procedure, the primary goal is to improve the abdominal contour and enhance body lines. Morbidly obese individuals should first demonstrate stable weight reduction before undergoing abdominoplasty. This will improve your final results and significantly decrease your risks of surgery.

Abdominoplasty is usually performed in a hospital setting with a one or two-night stay. Your specific situation will be determined in consultation with your Fayetteville Plastic Surgery physician. Surgery involves elevating the abdominal apron from the abdominal wall and tightening the abdominal musculature. Since the procedure requires work on the muscles, recovery for abdominoplasty is rather significant. Surgical drains will be in place requiring daily maintenance. You will be required to wear a tight abdominal binder for two to six weeks and return to full activity will be allowed after six weeks. Results of “tummy tuck” surgery are relatively predictable and good. Your new flatter abdomen will motivate you to further weight loss and exercise through improved body image and self esteem