The term non-invasive body contouring refers to a range of body contouring alternatives to traditional liposuction procedures. Liposuction has been around since the 1970s and it has been primarily used to remove fat from people's abdomens, thighs, hips, buttocks, and chins. However, liposuction surgery is not without risks. As in most surgeries, anesthesia must be administered and there is a long recovery period.

Another reason why people have sought out alternatives to liposuction is that the results of liposuction surgery are not always perfect. The procedure can result in loose skin and abnormal flesh indentations and other unwanted marks. Non-invasive body contouring methods, on the other hand, tend to have a lot less negative side effects and produce more natural looking results. Here is a brief description of some of the most common non-invasive body contouring procedures.

Thermage

Thermage is a procedure that uses heated lasers to tighten-up loose skin and make the treated area of the patient's body more firm and nicely shaped. In addition to being used to remove fatty cells from the tummy, arms, and buttocks, thermage also works as an alternative to traditional facelifts. The procedure is relatively pain free and recovery time is short. Patients can usually return to normal activity the next day, and the blemishes caused by the laser hear usually go away in a few days.

Lipodissolve

This procedure involves injecting mild doses of medication and specialized fat-burning enzymes into the treated areas of the patient's body. The chemicals dissolve the fat, which then gets flushed away naturally through the patient's urinary tract. It is especially efficient in toning the chin and neck and in helping to reduce cellulite.

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy has been a highly popular alternative to liposuction in Europe and South America for many years. This procedure is as effective as liposuction in removing fat and, additionally, it reduces cellulite. Mesotherapy involves the use of tiny injections of amino acids and medications that dissolve fatty tissue in the desired areas of the body. The needles used are so small, that there is virtually no pain involved in the procedure. Results are visible after only one session and there is no danger of bruising or tissue damage like there is with more invasive body contouring surgeries.