Understanding body contouring can be overwhelming, especially with so many techniques, technologies, and medical terms. This Body Contouring Glossary breaks down the most commonly used terms and procedures in the body sculpting space — from liposuction to tummy tucks — to help you make informed decisions on your journey to a sculpted body. Whether you’re exploring surgical options or non-invasive treatments, this guide is your go-to reference.
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
A surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms, resulting in a more toned and contoured appearance.
Body Contouring
An umbrella term for a range of surgical and non-surgical procedures that reshape and redefine body areas after weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing.
Body Lift
A comprehensive surgical procedure that targets multiple areas of the body — including the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks — to remove excess skin and fat.
CoolSculpting
A non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling (cryolipolysis) to eliminate stubborn fat cells without surgery.
Fat Freezing
Another term for cryolipolysis or CoolSculpting, where fat cells are frozen and naturally eliminated by the body.
Liposuction
A popular surgical procedure that removes localized fat deposits through suction, commonly used on the abdomen, thighs, and flanks.
Lower Body Lift
Targets the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks in one surgical procedure, typically for patients with significant skin laxity after major weight loss.
Mommy Makeover
A customised combination of procedures — often including tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast surgery — designed to restore a woman’s body post-pregnancy.
Non-Surgical Body Contouring
Includes techniques like CoolSculpting, radiofrequency, and ultrasound that reshape the body without incisions or downtime.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Removes excess abdominal skin and tightens muscles to create a flatter, firmer stomach — often after pregnancy or weight loss.
VASER Liposuction
An advanced form of liposuction using ultrasound energy to break down fat, allowing for more precise body sculpting with less trauma.
Helpful Body Contouring Resources
Explore our latest articles and guides on body contouring procedures to help you choose the right option for your aesthetic goals:
- What is Body Contouring? A Complete Guide
- Liposuction vs Fat Freezing: Which Is Right for You?
- Mommy Makeover: What to Expect
- Tummy Tuck in Cape Town – Cost, Recovery & Results
- Non-Surgical Body Contouring Options in Cape Town
- Is VASER Liposuction Worth It?
- Complete Guide to Lower Body Lift Surgery
- The Benefits of an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)