Whether you’ve lost ten pounds or a hundred, you may have noticed that your body hasn’t returned to the shape you expected. Minor or massive weight loss can stretch skin beyond natural repair, leaving unsightly stretch marks, sagging skin, and unwanted bulges. All the exercise in the world won’t make your skin shrink again. If you are unable to trim and tighten certain areas of your body, you may want to consider some of the plastic surgery options. There are many different plastic surgery procedures available that can help sculpt your body back into shape.

Liposuction:
Liposuction is an effective procedure for those looking to smooth out small bulges, bumps, and other fatty areas that are resistant to diet and exercise. You may find that no matter how many crunches you do, you just can’t make those love handles go away. If that is the case, then you may be a good candidate for liposuction.

During the procedure, the plastic surgeon will place a hollow tube in the target area. The tube moves through the layers of fat and will act like a vacuum, sucking out excess fat cells. The process can be used on a variety of areas from the knees and chin to the stomach and thighs. It is important to remember that liposuction is not a way to lose weight, but rather a sculpting tool. The biggest advantage is that once performed, the results are usually permanent. As long as you maintain your weight, you probably won’t have to worry about accumulating fat there again.

Abdominoplasty:
Tummy tuck surgery is a very extensive procedure that should only be considered in extreme cases. It is often the only solution for those who were previously obese and massive weight loss has left them with an apron of sagging skin hanging over their bellies.

The procedure involves making a long incision just above the pubic area to make it as hidden as possible. Excess skin (including stretch marks when possible) is cut away and the muscle is sutured in place. This cosmetic surgery can transform your body, but the recovery period can be long and difficult. It also leaves very visible scars.

Elevators:
There are many different types of lifts that can be performed on various areas of the body. The most common include arm and thigh raises. A facelift can successfully tighten and sculpt skin that is sagging excessively.

These procedures vary slightly by region, but basically all involve the same process. The length of the incision will depend on the size of the area to be operated on. The entire length under the arm will require a large, visible incision, while a smaller area under the buttock will be less noticeable. Excess skin is removed and the rest is sewn firmly in place. Recovery periods will vary, depending on the extent of the surgery.

It is important to thoroughly research all cosmetic surgery options and potential surgeons before committing to any procedure. Remember that all surgery carries certain risks.