Nonsurgical body sculpting, also called nonsurgical fat reduction, offers various procedures to eliminate stubborn fat pockets and shape the body without surgery.
It’s important to note that these procedures are not weight loss solutions but are effective for those close to their target weight seeking to remove resistant fat areas.
This article will provide comprehensive information on nonsurgical body sculpting to help you determine if it’s suitable for you.
Table of Contents
What Is Nonsurgical Body Sculpting?
Nonsurgical body sculpting isn’t about losing weight but targeting stubborn fat pockets. It’s for those already at their desired weight but struggling with resistant fat. Most procedures require a BMI under 30 and multiple sessions. Results can include a shapelier, more toned appearance.
How Does Nonsurgical Body Sculpting Work?
Nonsurgical body sculpting works through freezing fat cells or using heat to target and reduce fat in specific areas. It’s safe for use on the upper arms, abdomen, thighs, and areas like love handles.
Benefits of Nonsurgical Body Sculpting
Benefits of nonsurgical body sculpting include:
- No need for general anesthesia or incisions, resulting in no scars.
- Little to no downtime required.
- Few to no side effects.
- Gradual results for discreet treatment.
- Results can last as long as you maintain your ideal weight.
Nonsurgical Body Sculpting Methods
Nonsurgical body sculpting treatments offer alternatives to traditional surgical procedures for reshaping the body. These methods, approved by the FDA, target specific areas of stubborn fat through various techniques, each with its own unique process and recovery time.
1. Cryolipolysis
Cryolipolysis, commonly known as CoolSculpting, freezes fat cells in targeted areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms. This noninvasive procedure requires little to no downtime, with results gradually appearing as the body naturally eliminates the destroyed fat cells. Multiple sessions are often needed to achieve desired outcomes.
2. Laser lipolysis
Laser lipolysis, exemplified by SculpSure, employs laser energy to heat and eliminate fat cells in the abdomen and flanks. Similar to Cryolipolysis, this method typically requires multiple treatments for optimal results, with minimal downtime between sessions.
3. Radiofrequency lipolysis
Radiofrequency lipolysis, including procedures like UltraShape and BTL Vanquish ME, utilizes ultrasound technology to contour the body, focusing on areas like the abdomen and flanks. These treatments are gentle on the skin and generally involve little discomfort, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately after each session.
4. Injection lipolysis
Injection lipolysis, as seen with Kybella, targets fat cells beneath the chin. Using a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, this injection helps absorb fat and gradually metabolizes fat cells over time. While some swelling and bruising may occur, recovery time is minimal, and patients can typically resume daily activities shortly after treatment.
Ultimately, the suitability of these nonsurgical body sculpting methods varies from person to person. Consulting with a qualified provider, such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist, is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment based on individual needs and expectations.
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Nonsurgical Body Contouring vs Liposuction
Nonsurgical body contouring offers fewer risks compared to liposuction, as it doesn’t involve surgery or anesthesia.
Risks associated with liposuction include anesthesia risks, infection, fluid accumulation, and damage to deeper structures and organs.
Additionally, nonsurgical procedures tend to be less expensive than surgical liposuction, with the latter averaging around $3,200 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in 2016.
What Happens Before Body Contouring?
Before undergoing body contouring, you’ll have an initial consultation with a plastic surgeon or healthcare professional. During this meeting, you’ll discuss your goals, medical history, medications, substance use, and lifestyle habits. The healthcare provider will examine and measure the areas you want to change, possibly marking them and taking photographs.
Your options will be discussed, along with recommendations and potential risks. If surgery is being considered, anesthesia and post-operative pain control will also be addressed. If you choose to proceed, you’ll need to sign a consent form indicating your understanding of the risks and your consent for the procedure.
Depending on the type of body sculpting chosen, you may be asked to undergo blood work, a physical exam with your primary care provider, stop smoking, or discontinue certain medications and supplements, such as aspirin or NSAIDs.
What Happens After Body Sculpting?
After body contouring, whether surgical or nonsurgical, most people can return home the same day. If you’ve undergone surgery, you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you overnight. Surgical procedures may involve the use of thin tubes to drain fluid and reduce swelling.
Your surgical team will provide specific recovery instructions, which may include caring for drains and changing bandages, avoiding over-activity to prevent blood clots while still moving around, reporting any complications as explained before surgery, staying out of the sun, and using prescribed medications for pain control or infection prevention.
For nonsurgical body sculpting, you can leave the office or clinic immediately after the procedure without needing assistance, and you can resume your normal activities right away.