Body contouring
Duke plastic surgeons improve the shape and contour of all areas of your body by removing excess skin, tissue, cellulite and fat, improving skin tone and tightening weak muscles. Sagging skin, especially following significant weight loss, can be unsightly and cause medical conditions such as skin and back problems. We offer a variety of options to improve your appearance as well as your health, and work with you to determine which procedure, or combination of procedures, is right for you.
Trained in the full range of body contouring options
Body contouring procedures can help you look and feel better. Our plastic surgeons undergo advanced training, and have years of experience performing a wide range of techniques, which can improve how your arms, stomach, legs and buttocks appear. Our nationally renowned plastic surgeons work closely with you to understand what you hope to achieve through cosmetic procedures, and which approach works best for you.
Body contouring can have a significant impact if you are unhappy with your appearance following significant weight loss, multiple pregnancies, or due to the effects of aging. Procedures can remove exercise-resistant skin and fat deposits
Body contouring is also very beneficial following weight loss surgery. After the pounds come off, stretched, sagging skin remains. The heavy folds of excess skin around the abdomen, under your arms and on your thighs may prevent you from wearing regular clothing. It can also be unhealthy, causing painful skin rashes and ulcers, and lower back problems. No matter your reason for pursuing body contouring, we ensure you achieve the results that improve your appearance, as well as your self-esteem and self-confidence.
Choose Duke for your body contouring procedure because we offer:
- Advanced training and expertise. Our plastic and reconstructive surgeons undergo advanced training in surgical procedures that involve soft tissue such as skin and muscle, and hard tissue such as bone and cartilage. They have years of experience working on the intricate contours of the body and face, and are trained to perform procedures that improve your cosmetic and functional needs.
- Respected surgeons. Our plastic surgeons share their experience by teaching advanced cosmetic techniques to doctors across the country and around the world. Our combined skill and leadership means you work with some of the most knowledgeable and experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeons in the U.S.
- Experts in body contouring after weight loss surgery. Our surgeons are trained to recognize when your body is metabolically sound (typically 12 – 18 months following surgery) and create a treatment plan that suits your specific needs. Body contouring procedures are often staged, taking place over a one- or two-year time period. Our doctors work with you throughout the entire process to closely monitor your health and the results of surgery.
- Experience in all cosmetic options. Our surgeons are trained in all cosmetic surgeries, including procedures that enhance your breasts and facial features. You may also want to consider varicose vein removal, and other techniques that enhance your skin and features. We work closely with you to create a treatment plan and timeline to achieve optimal results based on what you want to achieve.
- Personalized treatment recommendations. After an extensive consultation and careful evaluation, we recommend which type of procedure, or combination of procedures, will give you the results you want.
- PATIENT STORY
Body contouring after weight loss surgery completes the journey“I feel so much better physically and mentally,” says Christina Benson. “I feel like I am at the I end of this journey.”
BODY CONTOURING
Treatments
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An incision is made across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. Excessive fatty tissue and loose skin are removed; abdominal muscles are tightened. A complete abdominoplasty is performed for the greatest effect and requires repositioning your belly button. A partial or mini-abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat only from the lower abdomen but does not require repositioning of your belly button. A firm elastic garment provides support after the operation. Full recuperation takes several months.
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Often performed following weight loss surgery. An incision is made just above the pubic area through which your surgeon removes the pannus, or “apron” -- the excess skin and tissue that may hang over the genitals and/or thighs. May be combined with a tummy tuck. The length of your incision is determined by how much skin must be removed. A firm elastic garment provides support after the operation. Full recuperation takes several months.
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Provides contour under the chin, neck, cheeks, upper arms, breasts, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves, and around the ankles. A hollow tube is placed under the skin through a small incision. High-powered suction removes excess fat deposits. The outpatient procedure may require general anesthesia. Bruising and numbness resides over several months
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Brachioplasty reduces sagging, drooping skin under the arm. An incision is made on the inside or back of the arm through which excess fat is removed. Procedure may include liposuction to improve contours. Supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped. Skin is smoothed over the new contour of your arm. Bandages may be applied and a compression garment may be worn to minimize swelling after surgery.
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Reshapes and contours the inner and/or outer thighs by reducing excess skin, and in some cases fat. Bandages may be applied and a compression garment may be worn to minimize swelling after surgery.
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A belt lipectomy removes excess, sagging buttock and thigh through incisions made under the buttock area. Typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Bandages may be applied and a compression garment may be worn to minimize swelling after surgery. Complete recovery takes several weeks.
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Combines tummy tuck with butt lift to remove excess skin and fat from the entire torso. This tightens the abdomen, groin, waist, thighs and buttocks in one procedure. Several incisions may be required. Often, liposuction is used to improve contours. Full recovery takes several months.
BODY CONTOURING
Tests
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We discuss your reasons for pursuing body contouring, your desired outcome and expected results. We conduct a thorough medical history, including your family history, general health status, previous operations, and any medications you may be taking. We examine the areas of your body being considered for contouring procedures, and take photographs for your medical record. Finally, we recommend a course of treatment that meets your needs. We discuss the potential risks and complications, and your post-operation recovery.
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Pre-surgical testing may require several blood tests to test your liver and kidney function, and to determine if you have any infection, blood disorder, or anemia, that may have gone previously undetected.