beauty

What on earth is a "non-surgical tummy tuck"?

The words ‘cosmetic surgery‘ usually conjure up images of needles, bandages and a hell of a lot of pain.

But Kim Kardashian just showed us otherwise.

Last week, she snapchatted her way through a curious-sounding “skin-tightening” surgery.

As photos of her recent beach frolic have been revealed, it’s been reported that the reality TV star underwent a “non-surgical tummy tuck.”

Wait, WHAT?

It caused much confusion in the office. What on earth was it? How could a tummy tuck be “non-surgical”? Did it actually do anything? Why, just why?

So we did the only logical thing we could think of, we spoke to an expert.

ADVERTISEMENT

Watch: A step by step guide to Kim Kardashian’s favourite style dutch braids. (Post continues after video.)

“A non-surgical tummy tuck or skin tightening (also known as Thermage CPT® skin tightening) effectively generates new collagen and improves texture,” says Australian Skin Clinics Helensvale franchisee and Thermage expert, Kerry-Ann Sirovs.

“A hand piece with a smooth, flat tip delivers radio-frequency energy in the form of heat onto the skin. This causes immediate tightening of existing collagen and then formation of new collagen over time, which results in further tightening of the skin.”

The procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on the area treated.

While quick, it’s not necessarily pain free.

ADVERTISEMENT

“The Thermage tip first delivers a cool sensation onto the skin, followed by a heated pulse and another cooling sensation. This cold-hot-cold sequence minimises pain,” says Sirovs.

“We work with our clients to make the treatment as comfortable as possible. We recommend two paracetamols 30 minutes before treatment. If you feel that you need stronger pain relief than this, discuss this at your initial consultation.”

There is little recovery time – Kardashian headed straight off to an event after her treatment.

According to Sirovs, it’s designed for people who are at least 25 years old, showing “laxity in their skin”. However, it may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions, which will be addressed in any initial consultation. (Post continues after gallery.)

While it seems to be relatively unheard of in mainstream circles, the treatment has actually been around for a fair while.

The original Thermage device received clearance from the FDA in America in July 2002 and has been available in Australia for more than 10 years. Australian Skin Clinics now has the current CPT model which is now enhanced and more effective than before,” says Sirovs.

Image: Instagram/@kimkardashian.