Body Contouring

WHAT IS BODY CONTOURING?

The phrase "body contouring" is used in the aesthetic world to represent a number of surgeries that can be used to sculpt a shapelier silhouette. Men and women who have lost weight, or whose weight has changed frequently over time, may desire to have body contouring at SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery to diminish fat, tighten the skin, and sculpt certain areas of the body. In addition, body contouring can be used for individuals who are aging and find that diet and exercise alone no longer provide the shape they desire. Plastic surgeon Dr. Ryan Couvillion offers numerous body contouring choices, from liposuction, breast lift surgery, and abdominoplasty to fat grafting and non-invasive treatments that tighten the skin. The possibilities to redefine and rejuvenate your physique are endless. Contact our practice in Houston, TX to schedule your body contouring consultation.

HOW DOES BODY CONTOURING WORK?

After your initial visit, Dr. Couvillion will create an aesthetic treatment plan for you. This might include both non-surgical and surgical treatments. Surgeries, such as liposuction, abdominoplasty, and breast lift or augmentation, typically require the use of general anesthesia. The goal during surgery is to create an incision that can be hidden behind clothing and to diminish unwanted fat and excess skin, leaving a slimmer, tighter contour. Nonsurgical treatments can usually be completed without any need for sedation. This may include laser skin tightening, injectable fillers, etc.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER BODY CONTOURING?

If you are having a surgical procedure, you can expect to be sent home to rest and recuperate afterward. Nonsurgical treatments typically do not have extended downtime. It's not uncommon for some patients to undergo procedures at once in multiple areas, which may require staying overnight in the hospital. Body contouring is meant to sculpt your body so whether you have chosen nonsurgical or surgical treatments or a little of both, you can expect a slimmer, tighter body and a more defined profile.

BODY CONTOURING FAQs

How much does body contouring surgery cost?

The cost of body contouring will be based on what's included in your treatment plan. During your initial consultation, Dr. Couvillion will talk to you to define your goals before performing an examination. He will then be able to give you suggestions and help you create your unique surgical plan. Once your plan is made, Dr. Couvillion's staff can estimate your costs and explain your options for payment. SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery takes several payment types, including low-interest medical financing.

Will insurance pay for my body contouring surgery?

Although most elective surgeries aren't usually covered by health insurance, it is possible that certain body contouring procedures might be eligible for insurance coverage. When excess skin is the cause of medical problems, like reoccurring infections, you might be able to get reimbursement from your health insurance. Coverage varies based on your insurance carrier and individual policy, but sometimes these types of surgeries are excluded.

What will be part of my body contouring surgery?

This all depends on your overall goals and current anatomy.  The combination of procedures required to reach your goal will be outlined in your initial consultation with Dr. Couvillion. Your body contouring might be scheduled in two or more stages based on your general physical health and how many areas are being treated. Generally, the stages will be grouped by combining either the upper body (arms, breasts, stomach, face, neck) or the lower body (buttocks, thighs, flanks, knees). This staging is done to decrease the possibility of complications, like infection and blood loss as well as shorten time under anesthesia.

Will I have scarring after my surgery?

Since incisions are required, a body contouring procedure will result in scars. Many patients report that when the incisions have fully healed, they no longer worry about scarring since the results are so significant. Dr. Couvillion makes an effort to minimize scarring by carefully making the incisions in areas which are usually covered by clothing or underwear. Post-surgery care is also very important. Skin creams might be recommended to help in your healing. In time, your scars will fade and blend into your normal skin.

How long will my body contouring results last?

If you take good care of yourself, the results of your body contouring surgery will last a long time. The best way to maintain your results is to maintain a steady weight. Dramatic changes in your weight or childbirth after your body contouring surgery can affect your results. Your body will continue to age naturally so you will eventually see loose skin develop, but generally patients do not return to their pre-surgery shape without large weight changes. Ask Dr. Couvillion about suggestions that can help you sustain your results.

REDEFINE YOUR SHAPE

Whether you want perkier breasts, a slimmer waist, or a tighter tummy, body contouring at SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery can help you obtain the body you desire. The impact of body contouring following significant weight loss can be visible almost immediately. We encourage you to call our Houston, TX office to arrange a consultation. Allow us to determine your aesthetic goals and create a tailored plan for you. Our team looks forward to helping you.

When it comes to aesthetic plastic surgery, it's important to choose a dedicated surgeon who is committed to your desired surgical goals. To meet with our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Ryan Couvillion, MD and his team, call our office at 713.275.9908.