Every year, more than 50 million Americans try a new diet. According to estimates, nearly two-thirds of all U.S. adults are overweight. Fortunately, many people are able to win the battle of the bulge and lose excess pounds through diet, exercise or gastric bypass surgery. While this is great for health and self-confidence, many people are then left with loose, sagging skin. What can people do to remove this excess skin? Body contouring treatments are one of the most popular solutions, providing a safe and effective solution for many people.

However, no plastic surgery is without risks. Before you decide if body contouring is right for you, consider both the potential risks and benefits of this treatment. By understanding how the surgery works, the results you can expect and the possible side effects, you’ll be better prepared to make the decision that is right for your health, lifestyle and needs.

The Advantages of Body Contouring Treatments

The biggest benefit of having contouring surgery is the ability to regain a firmer, more youthful appearance. Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, people entering middle age and women who have had children can especially benefit from contouring treatments. By eliminating excessive skin and fat, surgeons can help patients improve their appearance and confidence.

Body contouring can be performed on many different areas of the body, which gives patients the freedom to choose which option is right for their needs and goals. The abdomen, arms, buttocks, lower body and breasts are all areas where contouring can be used to sculpt, shape, lift and tighten the body. Some patients choose a combination of two or more procedures, while others opt for a total lift.

Potential Risks of Body Contouring Treatments

In addition to considering what you may gain by having body contouring surgery, you should also consider the possible risks and complications. While this procedure is regarded as safe by doctors, all surgery carries some risk. Some of the possible complications associated with body contouring procedures include blood clots, excessive bleeding and infection. Depending on where or how the surgery is performed, patients may also experience scarring. This scarring often fades over a period of months, but some people may require additional surgery to minimize scarring and remove scar tissue.

Any type of cosmetic plastic surgery comes with both benefits and possible risks. Before you decide if body contouring is right for you, spend some time carefully reviewing your goals. Always keep realistic expectations in order to get the most out of your plastic surgery experience. Spend some time discussing your options with your doctor in order to determine if you are a candidate.