What Are the Best Methods for Body Contouring?

Dr. Eric Barker

April 9, 2025

Dr. Barker earned his medical degree at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, WI. He then completed his combined training in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Rush University Medical Center and John H. Stroger, Jr. (Cook County) Hospital in Chicago, IL. Dr. Barker was able to train under distinguished breast reconstructive surgeon Dr. Anuja Antony, and prestigious cosmetic surgeon Dr. John Q. Cook.

At Peak Plastic Surgery Center, one of the most common questions we receive is:
“What is the best modality for body contouring?”

The truth is, body contouring is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a broad category of treatments ranging from non-invasive procedures to minimally invasive techniques and full surgical procedures. The best treatment depends on your goals, body type, and specific concerns.

If you’re considering body contouring, here’s how we determine the best approach for you.

Understanding Body Contouring: A Step-Ladder Approach

At Peak Plastic Surgery, Dr. Eric Barker takes a step-ladder approach to body contouring, starting with the least invasive methods and progressing to surgical options when necessary.

Before recommending a treatment, we always ask:

  • What are your goals?
  • What is your current height and weight?
  • Have you lost weight recently?
  • Are you actively in the process of losing weight?
  • Do you have excess skin, excess fat, or both?
  • What areas of the body are your primary concern?

By gathering this information, we can create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Non-Surgical Body Contouring

For patients who want to improve skin texture, muscle tone, or reduce small fat deposits without surgery, we offer advanced non-invasive treatments, including:

EMSculpt Neo

  • Builds/tones muscle, tightens skin, and reduces a small amount of fat
  • Ideal for patients looking to enhance muscle definition
  • Uses high-intensity electromagnetic pulsation technology with radiofrequency heat to strengthen and tone

Morpheus8

  • Radiofrequency gold-plated microneedling for skin tightening and texture improvement
  • Helps eliminate fine lines, wrinkles, and mild skin laxity
  • Can treat small areas of subcutaneous fat

These non-invasive approaches are ideal for mild concerns and patients who prefer no downtime.

Minimally Invasive Body Contouring

For patients with stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, we offer awake VASER liposuction, which allows for precise fat removal without general anesthesia or large incisions.

VASER Liposuction (Performed Awake)

  • Targets stubborn fat in areas on the body like the abdomen, thighs, flanks, and arms
  • Uses ultrasound-assisted liposuction for smoother, more dramatic results
  • Tightens overlying skin on the treatment areas
  • Minimal downtime compared to traditional liposuction
  • No large scars or need for skin removal

This technique is perfect for patients who don’t require skin removal but want a more sculpted appearance.

Surgical Body Contouring for Excess Skin & Fat

For patients with significant skin laxity or excess fat, surgical procedures are often the best option.

  • Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) – Removes excess abdominal skin and tightens abdominal muscles
  • Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) – Removes excess, sagging skin from the upper arms
  • Thigh Lift – Tightens and reshapes loose skin on the upper legs
  • Mid-Back Lift – Removes excess skin in the bra roll area
  • Circumferential Tummy Tuck – Addresses skin laxity in the abdomen, lower back, and hips

Surgical body contouring is ideal for men and women.  Typically patients are post-weight loss, postpartum mothers, or individuals with significant skin laxity and excess.

How to Choose the Best Body Contouring Treatment for You

The best body contouring treatment depends on your unique body and goals. That’s why Dr. Eric Barker believes in offering a wide range of options, so you’re not limited to one or two choices that may not deliver the optimal results for your individual goals.

When choosing a provider, ask yourself:

  • Does the clinic offer a full range of body contouring options?
  • Does the surgeon take a customized approach rather than a one-size-fits-all solution?
  • Do they follow a step-ladder method, starting with less invasive treatments before recommending surgery?
  • Do they take the time to understand your goals and long-term expectations?

At Peak Plastic Surgery, we prioritize personalized care and long-term patient satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for non-invasive treatments, minimally invasive liposuction, or a full surgical transformation, we’ll help you choose the right path based on your individual needs.

Start Your Body Contouring Journey Today

If you’re ready to enhance your shape and achieve your body goals, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation at Peak Plastic Surgery, and let’s create a customized treatment plan designed just for you.

Contact us today to book your appointment!