Can I have a non-surgical tummy tuck?
A non-surgical tummy tuck or non-surgical abdominoplasty refers to a spectrum of procedures aimed at reducing fat, tightening skin and improving the contour of the abdomen without the need for lengthy incisions and a prolonged recovery period.
· They are best for patients who have:
o Mild skin laxity
o Want subtle fat reduction because they are already close to their ideal body weight
o Don’t have major abdominal muscle separation or loose skin
o Prefer minimal downtime even if results are less dramatic
The main types of treatment option include:
o Radiofrequency therapy uses energy to heat the abdominal skin deeply, stimulating collagen and tightening it. It is important to note that occasionally a course of treatments is required and the final aesthetic outcome can take time to become evident.
o This can often be combined with liposuction when for more dramatic results than purely external devices.
o Coolsculpting or cryolipolysis is a non-invasive fat reduction procedure that works by freezing subcutaneous fat cells, leading to their gradual death and elimination. It is important to note that multiple courses of treatment may be required, results are generally mild to moderate and as with all of these techniques, they are not a replacement for liposuction or abdominoplasty in many patients.
o Modalities such as laser, ultrasound and some injectables can also be used to address skin laxity and fat excess.
o However, it is important to note that these are not a replacement for surgical procedures such as liposuction or abdominoplasty.
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, a consultation with a fully qualified plastic surgeon can help you decide based on your body, goals and lifestyle.
