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Can plastic surgery help me reach my goal weight?

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As summer approaches, many people feel eager to reach their “goal weight” and wonder if plastic surgery is an option. While a healthy diet and active lifestyle are fundamental to weight loss, body contouring procedures are not weight loss solutions—but they can help you achieve your ideal body shape if you are already near your goal weight. 

Here, Dr. Emily Kirby, a female plastic surgeon Fort Worth patients trust for open and honest communication, explains what body contouring procedures can and cannot realistically achieve when it comes to weight loss.

What is body contouring surgery?

Body contouring surgery, or body sculpting, includes a range of procedures that sculpt and refine your body’s shape. These procedures target specific areas where you may have unwanted fat deposits, loose skin, or both.

Popular body contouring options at our Fort Worth plastic surgery practice include:

If you are looking for non-surgical body contouring, CoolSculpting® is the gold standard treatment for non-surgical fat reduction at our Fort Worth medical spa. This treatment freezes fat cells, and over time, the body safely processes them to smooth and firm treated areas. 

Will I lose weight after body contouring procedures?

Yes; any procedure that removes fat or skin will naturally reduce weight. For example, liposuction can remove up to 11 pounds of fat, but the focus of the procedure is to remove just enough fat to smooth and tone the treatment area, rather than be a means to shed pounds. 

Female patient before and after liposuction Fort Worth
This patient chose liposuction to smooth and shape her abdomen, flanks, and inner and outer thighs. Dr. Kirby removed precise amounts of fat in these areas to define and enhance this patient’s natural contours. Removing too much fat can result in unnatural-looking outcomes and detract from a feminine silhouette.
Female patient before and after liposuction Fort Worth
This patient chose liposuction to smooth and shape her abdomen, flanks, and inner and outer thighs. Dr. Kirby removed precise amounts of fat in these areas to define and enhance this patient’s natural contours. Removing too much fat can result in unnatural-looking outcomes and detract from a feminine silhouette.
Female patient before and after liposuction Fort Worth
This patient chose liposuction to smooth and shape her abdomen, flanks, and inner and outer thighs. Dr. Kirby removed precise amounts of fat in these areas to define and enhance this patient’s natural contours. Removing too much fat can result in unnatural-looking outcomes and detract from a feminine silhouette.

Because procedures like Fort Worth mommy makeover, tummy tuck, and body lift remove fat and skin, it is common to lose several pounds after undergoing these procedures. But, similar to liposuction, the goal is to achieve balanced, natural-looking results that align with your body shape and aesthetic goals; these are not weight reduction methods. 

Female patient before and after tummy tuck Fort Worth
To improve this patient’s abdominal area, Dr. Kirby performed a full tummy tuck and liposuction. These procedures addressed fullness in her upper and lower abdomen and corrected abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), as part of her mommy makeover surgery plan. Because skin and fat were removed to contour her midsection, she likely lost several pounds, although her goal was not dramatic weight loss.
Female patient before and after tummy tuck Fort Worth
To improve this patient’s abdominal area, Dr. Kirby performed a full tummy tuck and liposuction. These procedures addressed fullness in her upper and lower abdomen and corrected abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), as part of her mommy makeover surgery plan. Because skin and fat were removed to contour her midsection, she likely lost several pounds, although her goal was not dramatic weight loss.
Female patient before and after tummy tuck Fort Worth
To improve this patient’s abdominal area, Dr. Kirby performed a full tummy tuck and liposuction. These procedures addressed fullness in her upper and lower abdomen and corrected abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), as part of her mommy makeover surgery plan. Because skin and fat were removed to contour her midsection, she likely lost several pounds, although her goal was not dramatic weight loss.

“I am here to say that Dr. Kirby is the most talented plastic surgeon around. Her precision and techniques set her apart. I’ve had several procedures with her (Blepharoplasty, tummy tuck, lipo, breast lift and augmentation) and every single experience has been so incredibly amazing. The results have exceeded my expectations and my scars are gorgeous. She is honest, patient and highly skilled. Her staff is attentive and her prices are very reasonable! 10 stars from me.”

—5-star Google review

What can body contouring plastic surgery realistically achieve?

Plastic surgery can significantly enhance your appearance by:

  • Removing stubborn fat deposits: Liposuction targets areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and flanks, where fat often remains despite diet and exercise, and is commonly paired with other contouring procedure plans to maximize results. 
  • Tightening loose skin: Tummy tucks and other body-lifting surgeries remove excess skin, making them helpful procedures after weight loss or pregnancy.
  • Improving body contours: Contouring procedures create smoother, more defined body lines and a toned appearance.

Although body contouring techniques are not a primary means of weight loss, most people find that they are motivated to preserve their results and prioritize healthier ways of eating and staying active, which can help them lose more weight post-recovery. These procedures can also make daily activities and exercise more comfortable as chafing, loose skin, or abdominal muscle separation no longer causes discomfort or limits movement. 

What can’t plastic surgery do?

Plastic surgery cannot:

  • Replace a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial for long-term weight management and overall health.
  • Address overall body weight: Body contouring is not designed for general weight loss. These procedures are most effective for patients who are near their goal weight but have localized fat deposits or loose skin.
  • Prevent future weight gain: It is essential to continue healthy lifestyle habits after surgery, as weight gain can impact the benefits of body contouring.
Body contouring options in Fort Worth

While plastic surgery does not typically result in considerable weight loss, it can be an excellent option for men and women to achieve a more sculpted physique. To learn more about how body contouring can help you achieve your best figure, schedule your consultation with Dr. Kirby at our Fort Worth plastic surgery practice to discuss your options. Please call or text (817) 292-4200, or contact us online using the form at the bottom of this page. 

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Emily J. Kirby, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Fort Worth, Texas   Award-Winning
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