What is body contouring?
Body contouring is a set of aesthetic treatments, both non-invasive and minimally invasive, aimed at improving the shape of the body, eliminating localized fat, firming the skin, and sculpting specific areas. These procedures can be applied to areas such as the abdomen, thighs, arms, flanks, and buttocks. It is a personalized solution that adapts to each person according to their physical needs, skin type, age, and lifestyle. It is not a weight-loss method, but rather a way to reshape the figure and recover firmness and body balance.
How does body contouring work?
Each treatment works differently on the skin, subcutaneous fat, and lymphatic circulation:
- It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for skin firmness.
- It reduces fat tissue, using techniques such as lipolytic injections, heat, or radiofrequency.
- It promotes lymphatic drainage, helping eliminate toxins and reducing fluid retention.
- It shapes body contours, improving the general appearance of the body from different angles.
These procedures usually last between 30 and 60 minutes, are outpatient-based, and are performed in weekly or biweekly sessions, depending on the type of treatment.
Types of body contouring
For those seeking visible results without undergoing surgery or requiring recovery time, there are several highly effective non-invasive options. Among the most popular and widely used are carboxytherapy, body mesotherapy, pressotherapy, and radiofrequency. Each of these treatments has a specific focus to address different needs, but their true potential lies in the ability to combine them, achieving a more comprehensive effect and optimized results.
Main body treatments
Carboxytherapy
This treatment uses carbon dioxide (CO₂) injected into the dermis to improve oxygenation, circulation, and skin elasticity. It is particularly effective in areas affected by cellulite, skin laxity, or stretch marks.
Body Mesotherapy
Involves microinjections of lipolytic substances, antioxidants, and vitamins directly into the middle layer of the skin (mesoderm). It helps dissolve localized fat and improve skin tone and firmness.
Pressotherapy
This treatment applies sequential air pressure to stimulate lymphatic drainage, eliminate retained fluids, and enhance blood circulation. It is especially useful for reducing swelling, relieving tired legs, and complementing fat-reduction therapies.
What causes the issues that body contouring treatments address?
- Rapid weight loss: leaves loose skin that does not adapt to the body's new volume.
- Postpartum: stretched skin and distended muscles do not always recover on their own.
- Aging: naturally reduces collagen production and skin elasticity.
- Genetics and lifestyle: influence the accumulation of fat and fluid retention.
Frequently asked questions
Which body treatment is best for reducing fat without surgery?
There is no single “best” treatment for everyone, as it depends on your goals, the area of the body you want to treat, and your skin condition. However, mesotherapy and carboxytherapy are highly effective for eliminating localized fat in the abdomen, flanks, or outer thighs (saddlebags). If your main concern is skin laxity, radiofrequency might be a more suitable option.
How long do the results of body contouring last?
The results can last for several months or even years, as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Many professionals recommend maintenance sessions every 3 to 6 months, especially if you’re undergoing carboxytherapy or mesotherapy.
Can I undergo body contouring treatments after pregnancy?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, many women choose these treatments during the postpartum period to restore muscle tone, improve abdominal skin, and reduce fat accumulated during pregnancy.
Which areas of the body can be treated with body contouring?
Treatments are adapted to target areas with localized fat or skin laxity. The most common areas include:
- Abdomen
- Thighs (inner and outer)
- Buttocks
- Arms
- Double chin
- Flanks or “love handles”
- Lower back
There are also 360° body contouring plans, which combine several areas in a single session to achieve a more balanced and harmonious result.