Why Skin Elasticity Is Important for Great Liposuction or CoolSculpting Results
Liposuction and CoolSculpting are excellent methods for reducing unwanted body fat and creating a leaner, sexier shape. Some of the criteria for achieving great results are: a) good general health; b) being at or close to your target body weight; and c) the ability to maintain outcomes with diet and exercise. Another factor that is essential to successful liposuction or CoolSculpting results is the quality or elasticity of the skin. In this post, Dr. Joshua Greenwald, a liposuction surgeon serving NYC and beyond, explains why.
What Is Skin Elasticity?
Skin elasticity is the ability of your skin to shrink, retract or “snap back” into place after being stretched. It is largely determined by the body’s supply of collagen and elastin, which are two proteins critical to plump, smooth skin. Normally your body has a lot of collagen and elastin while you are young, but this supply diminishes as you age. Without enough of these vital proteins, the skin gradually becomes lax and saggy, and can develop lines and creases.
Collagen and elastin aren’t the only factors that affect skin elasticity. Sun damage, weight fluctuation, pregnancy and tobacco use can also influence how elastic the skin is.
To determine how elastic your skin is, try the “pinch test.” Pinch and hold an area of skin for a few seconds and then release it. If the skin flattens quickly, it has good elasticity; if it takes longer to flatten and “snap back” into position, it has less elasticity.
Achieving Great Body Contouring Results
Optimal results with liposuction and CoolSculpting require firm, elastic skin. When Dr. Greenwald removes volume from a targeted area of the body — especially a large area of the body like the abdomen or buttocks— the skin envelope should shrink or retract over the smaller, flatter contour. If the skin envelope does not contract, it can be very noticeable. Removing unwanted fat from an area with loose skin can actually highlight the laxity and create a lumpy or “wavy” body contour.
Keep in mind that it is possible to remove fat from an area with loose, saggy skin and achieve great results — but not through liposuction or CoolSculpting. Based on an evaluation of your problem area and a discussion of your goals, Dr. Greenwald may recommend a type of lift procedure, which involves both fat reduction and skin tightening components. For example, thigh lift surgery entails removing unwanted fat pockets and tightening/lifting the skin for leaner, firmer-looking thighs.
To discuss your body contouring goals with Dr. Greenwald and find the right solution to your needs, please call or email our office today.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.