BODY CONTOURING PROCEDURES 

Sometimes diet and exercise are not enough. At Palmetto Plastic Surgery in North Charleston, South Carolina, we know that liposuction can put an end to unsightly bulges and stubborn fatty deposits. It can improve body shape and contour specific areas that do not respond to diet and exercise. Target areas include the neck, chin, upper arm, abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, knees, calves, and ankles. It can also be used as a treatment for gynecomastia (large male breasts). The ideal patient is one who practices a healthy lifestyle, near ideal weight, eats well-balanced meals, and has realistic expectations for results.

Tumescent liposuction involves the use of a diluted solution of local anesthetic and other medications to fill the fatty layer of the skin prior to removing excess fat. The procedure involves infiltrating the problem area with a fluid that functions to numb the area and loosen the fat. The fat is then drawn out by the use of a micro cannula attached to a syringe. This method allows for less direct trauma, with minimal blood loss, and a smoother, more attractive contour. The procedure may be tolerated easily with oral medication for relaxation. In some cases, intravenous sedation is used. For cost containment and convenience, liposuction is done on an outpatient basis in our office operating suite.

SmartLipo® is a minimally invasive fat removal procedure which uses the focused power of laser energy to break up and dissolve fatty tissue trapped beneath the skin. By directing the energy to the area beneath the surface of the skin, the technique also encourages the development of collagen, which results in a tighter, more toned appearance overall. Laser -assisted lipolysis usually requires only local anesthesia. This procedure is ideal for treating localized fatty deposits on the face and body.

An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess wrinkled skin and fatty tissue from the upper, middle, and lower abdomen, as well as tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. This results in a firmer and flatter abdominal area and, in most cases, a narrower waistline. Loss of skin elasticity, which can occur with repeated weight loss, or in older adult who is slightly overweight, can be improved with abdominoplasty. The surgery is especially helpful to women who through multiple pregnancies have stretched their abdominal skin and muscles beyond the point where they can return to normal.



A mini-abdominoplasty can be performed on patients with only localized fullness of the lower abdomen, typically resulting in decreased scarring and shorter surgery and recovery times.

Brazilian Butt Lift surgery involves using fat grafting to transfer fat from one area of the body to the buttocks. This procedure is right for someone who does not like the shape of their buttock or is looking to balance their body. Brazilian Butt Lift surgery increases fullness, roundness, and projection of your buttock. In most cases, liposuction is used to harvest fat from the back region, which allows for additional contouring near the buttocks. This fat is then processed and injected into the buttocks. The results are immediately visible; however, projection may decrease over time as some of the fat will be absorbed back into your body. On average 60-80% of transferred fat will be retained. Call today to inquire how to improve the balance of your figure and enhance your self-image and self-confidence.

The need for a procedure to lift the buttocks and thighs has been present for quite a while. Most surgical procedures trade visible scars to accomplish the lift. Although this may be necessary for some patients who require large amounts of skin to be removed, it's not optimal for everyone.

This procedure lifts the buttocks and tightens the thighs without any visible scarring. The Tongol Lift incisions are all concealed within the cleft of the buttocks. A more youthful buttock and tighter thighs can be had and the scars are hidden even in the most revealing of clothing.

A Tongol lift is often used in conjunction with liposculpting for skin that has lost some of its elasticity. Skin may be damaged by large weight gains, aging and environmental factors. Liposuction can remove excess fat but does not address the lax skin. One of the advantages of liposuction is small incisions and now there is a procedure to tighten the skin without obvious incisions.

Pectoral implants may be useful when this muscle is not developed to the patient's satisfaction. They may also be used to reconstruct congenital or acquired defects.

Gluteal Implants (Buttock Augmentation) 

Buttock implants have become more popular recently. The gluteal region can be augmented with fat grafts, "Brazilian butt lift" or with silicone implants. A consultation with the surgeon will help you decide what is best for you.

Lower Leg Implants (Calf Augmentation) 

Calf implants are often used when the patient is not satisfied with the shape or size of their lower legs. The implants can also be used for asymmetries caused by congenital or acquired conditions.

CoolSculpting® is a revolutionary non-surgical contouring treatment that freezes stubborn fat, which then is naturally eliminated from your body. No needles, no special diets, no supplements, no surgery. And most importantly, no downtime.

Say goodbye to muffin tops and love handles.

CoolSculpting® is the coolest, most innovative, non-surgical way to lose those annoying bumps and bulges of stubborn fat. This revolutionary technology targets and cools unwanted fat cells in the selected area to induce a noticeable, natural-looking reduction in fat bulges. Unlike most other methods of fat reduction, CoolSculpting® involves no needles, surgery, or downtime. Patients often spend procedure time reading, working on their laptops, or simply relaxing. It’s safe, FDA-cleared and effective.¬¬ Results look natural and can be seen as early as three weeks following treatment, with the most dramatic results after one to three months. Call us today to schedule your consultation, to find out if CoolSculpting® is right for you.