Diet and exercise are key factors in helping people attain their ideal body image, but many encounter certain areas of their body where fat deposits just won’t budge. From stubborn post-pregnancy belly fat to thick thighs and larger-than-desired derrieres, these localized deposits lead many to seek out help in the form of cosmetic surgery.

Liposuction has long been one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, but recent advances in body contouring treatments have brought about a new line of nonsurgical alternatives like CoolSculpting and Body FX. With so many options out there, it can sometimes be difficult to choose between fat reduction approaches. Take a look at the information below to help you decide whether liposuction or noninvasive fat reduction is right for you.

The basics

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves inserting a small, hollow tube into the area of concern and suctioning out excess fat cells.

Nonsurgical fat reduction procedures eliminate unwanted fat through topical methods. There are many nonsurgical treatments out there that use a variety of modalities, including radiofrequency technology, and special devices that cool fat cells to the point of death without harming the surrounding tissues.

The head-to-head match up

Both liposuction and nonsurgical fat reduction are effective body contouring procedures that eliminate diet- and exercise-resistant fat cells, but there are several things to consider before deciding on a certain treatment method:

Comfort

If you are looking for a gentle treatment that causes minimal discomfort during and after the procedure, then nonsurgical fat reduction is the way to go. Since liposuction is surgical, it can cause soreness, bruising, and swelling in the treatment area.

Recovery time

As with many surgical procedures, you will have restrictions on your normal activities for up to 10 days after liposuction, and the full recovery period can last up to six weeks. There is no extended healing period with nonsurgical fat reduction, so you can get back to your busy schedule almost immediately.

Results

Liposuction results can be dramatic once the swelling goes down. The majority of swelling is typically gone within 6 weeks, although final results are not apparent until 6 months after the procedure. Noninvasive fat reduction treatments may not be as noticeable right after treatment, but results gradually become visible in the following weeks.

Making the final decision

Liposuction may be right for you if:

• You have larger deposits of excess fat or multiple areas that you would like reduced at the same time.
• You want to see more immediate dramatic results in problem areas

Noninvasive fat reduction may be right for you if:

• You are already at your ideal weight
• You have good skin elasticity
• You want to target smaller trouble spots
• You prefer less downtime

When it comes to achieving your ideal body shape, you can count on the expert services of the certified cosmetic surgeons at Island Plastic Surgery. Our professional team will walk you through each of our body contouring procedures until you find the method that suits you best.

Contrary to popular belief, having large breasts is not always a good thing. While some women dream of enhancing their physical appearance by increasing the shape and size of their breasts, others want nothing more than to go down a few cup sizes. Overly large breasts can cause a number of problems that span from poor posture and chronic back pain to self-esteem issues and physical limitations. If you are on the fence about whether breast reduction surgery is right for you, take a look at some of these little-known benefits that may help you live a fuller, more comfortable life.

Say goodbye to pain

Overly large breasts can do a number on your body, and not in a good way. All of that weight can put a great deal of stress on your back, shoulders, neck, and joints, pulling your body out of alignment and increasing your risk for developing arthritis. Breast reduction surgery can help alleviate all of these symptoms and reduce skin irritation, abrasions, and rashes caused by bra straps digging into your shoulders.

Feel comfortable in your own skin

There is a strong correlation between overly large breasts and negative self-image. Feelings of social anxiety, embarrassment, or self-consciousness are common. Whether your breasts are overly large or asymmetrical, breast reduction surgery is an effective solution for enhancing your body image, giving you lighter, firmer, and more proportionate breasts. Not only will your clothes fit better, but your posture and muscles will change over time, allowing you to stand up straighter and face the world with confidence.

Breathe easier

The excess weight placed on your chest cavity by overly large breasts can be overwhelming, often exacerbating asthma and other breathing problems. To find relief, you may want to consider breast reduction surgery. Reducing the pressure on your airways can decrease the risks of respiratory complications and help you live a more comfortable life.

Get active

Have you ever wanted to play a sport, but your large breasts prevented you from doing so? With breast reduction surgery, you may have an opportunity to live the active lifestyle you have always wanted as well as the ability to try new things that you never thought possible. Whether you want to run a marathon, go for a hike, join a sports team, or simply get in shape – all of these activities are now more comfortably within your reach.

Don’t forget to check your health insurance policy

Unlike cosmetic plastic surgery to enlarge your breasts, health insurance can often help cover the cost of your breast reduction. Overly large breasts are actually a medical condition known as macromastia . Since macromastia can cause many health-related problems, your surgery may be covered if it is considered a medical necessity.

The benefits associated with breast reduction surgery are tremendous, so don’t hesitate to take the crucial first step towards a new, more active life by contacting the professional team at Island Plastic Surgery . We look forward to helping you live the life you have always wanted!