Figure modelling
Body contouring, also known as figure modelling, encompasses aesthetic medicine procedures that specifically target stubborn pockets of fat and loss of skin firmness.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
The path to achieving your ideal figure often involves discipline, exercise and a healthy diet. However, some pockets of fat can be stubborn, or the skin may lose its firmness. This is where the Figure modelling (also known as body contouring or body shaping). Today, modern aesthetic medicine offers far more than just the scalpel when it comes to specifically optimising the body’s contours.
Definition: What is figure modelling?
Figure modelling (Body contouring) refers to all aesthetic medical procedures aimed at improving the body’s silhouette, harmonising its proportions and treating specific problem areas.
The aim is not weight loss (treatment of obesity), but rather the Fine modelling in areas such as the stomach, hips, thighs or upper arms, through fat reduction, skin tightening or muscle building.
Non-invasive methods: Shaping without surgery
For patients who wish to avoid downtime and the risks associated with anaesthesia, innovative technologies have become established that destroy fat cells from the outside or stimulate muscles.
Cryolipolysis (cold)
Known as „fat freezing“. Applicators cool the fatty tissue in a controlled manner to as low as -11 °C. The fat cells, which are sensitive to the cold, die off (apoptosis) and are broken down by the body over a period of weeks. Ideal for: Stubborn, small pockets of fat (e.g. love handles).
Injection lipolysis (fat-dissolving injections)
An active ingredient (usually phosphatidylcholine, often derived from soya, frequently in combination with deoxycholic acid) is injected directly into the fat deposit, where it causes the fat cells to dissolve; in Germany, this treatment is generally carried out for off-label use. Ideal for: A slight double chin, chubby cheeks.
Radio Frequency & Ultrasound (Heat)
Energy is directed deep into the skin to heat fat cells whilst simultaneously stimulating the collagen fibres to Skin tightening to encourage. Ideal for: Cellulite treatment and sagging skin.
EMS / Magnetic Field Therapy (Muscle Building)
High-intensity electromagnetic pulses cause the muscle to contract thousands of times in just a few minutes. This builds muscle and burns fat. Ideal for: Definition of abdominal muscles or a bum lift.
Invasive methods: The surgical approach
If large amounts of fat need to be removed or significant excess skin needs to be tightened, surgical procedures are often the only option.
Liposuction (fat removal)
The preferred method for precise body contouring. Cannulas are inserted through small incisions to suction out the fat. Modern techniques (e.g. water-jet or laser-assisted) are gentle on the tissue.
Body contouring surgery
Following significant weight loss, a tummy tuck, upper arm lift or thigh lift may be necessary to remove excess skin.
Comparison: Which method is right for me?
| Characteristic | Non-invasive (e.g. cryolipolysis) | Invasive (e.g. liposuction) |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Minor corrections, fine-tuning | Significant change in shape |
| Anaesthesia | None | Twilight sleep or general anaesthesia |
| Downtime | Instantly socially acceptable | Several days to weeks |
| Result | Visible after 2–3 months | Visible straight away (once the swelling has gone down) |
| Risks | Mild (redness, numbness) | Moderate (surgical risks, dimpling) |
Risks and safety in figure modelling
Even „gentle“ methods are medical procedures that interfere with the body’s metabolism or structure. In addition to the specific risks associated with individual procedures (such as the paradoxical increase in fat following cryolipolysis), there are general complications that may arise.
- Haematomas (bruises) and severe swelling
- Wound-healing disorders and infections (particularly in the case of invasive procedures)
- Denting, asymmetries or irregularities the skin’s surface
- Temporary or permanent sensory disturbances (Numbness)
- Pigment changes (Skin discolouration)
- Seroma (Accumulation of wound fluid)
- Necrosis (Tissue necrosis, rare)
- Risk of thrombosis and embolism (in the case of surgical procedures)
- Allergic reactions on narcotics or materials
- Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia (PAH) (rare proliferation of fat cells during cold therapy)
Safety first
For any type of body contouring – whether using cold therapy or a scalpel – always choose a qualified specialist. Should complications arise following an invasive procedure, a Consequential Costs Insurance protect against unexpected financial burdens arising from necessary corrective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In principle, yes: the fat cells that have been removed or destroyed do not usually regenerate; however, the remaining fat cells may enlarge again if you put on weight, which means that the visible result may change.
No. These procedures are designed to reshape the body, not to reduce weight. They are ideal for patients of normal weight with localised problem areas.
Non-invasive procedures are usually relatively painless (a sensation of cold or warmth). Surgical procedures are carried out under anaesthesia, after which pain similar to that experienced with muscle soreness may occur.
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