Obesity is a growing issue in the U.S., impacting more than 40 percent of the population. For many morbidly obese Americans struggling with weight-loss, bariatric surgery is the only effective solution. Unfortunately, though bariatric procedures help patients reach and maintain healthier weights and lifestyles, the initial rapid weight loss leaves them in need of additional surgery to remove excess skin.
Am I a Candidate for Post-Bariatric Surgery Cosmetic Procedures?
If you have lost massive amounts of weight quickly, resulting in sagging skin that hinders your mobility, comfort, and self-esteem, you may be a candidate for cosmetic surgery to address these issues. It is important that your weight loss be stabilized for three to six months before pursuing this surgical option.
These procedures can be physically taxing, so the ideal candidate should be relatively healthy and free of medical conditions that would raise your surgical and recovery risks. Bad habits, like smoking, must be abandoned, and a commitment to healthy eating and physical fitness are optimal. A positive attitude with realistic surgical expectations also makes for a good candidate.
What Types of Plastic Surgery Can Help With My Appearance after Massive Weight Loss?
The surgical removal of excess skin and related cosmetic body surgeries after a bariatric procedure is called body contouring. Our plastic surgeon, Robert Wald, MD, removes loose skin and fat from trouble areas, including your abdomen, groin, arms, legs, and back.
Dr. Wald may also need to perform other techniques to achieve the results that you and he decide on during your consultation:
- Breast lift surgery to restore lift, tightness, and fullness
- Tummy tuck surgery to remove the excess skin apron hanging over the stomach and groin area
- Facelift surgery to tighten sagging skin around the neck, jowls, cheeks, and jawline
- Other lifts for the arms, lower torso, bottom, and thighs
How Is Post-Bariatric Surgery Body Contouring Surgery Performed?
Post-weight loss body contouring surgeries are performed under anesthesia in a surgical suite. Some are in-patient procedures requiring a hospital stay. It is common to spread these surgeries out over several months as two or three separate surgical procedures.
These surgeries may vary greatly depending upon the types of procedure being performed, the patient’s unique needs, and the amount of skin and tissue removed.
What Is Recovery From Plastic Surgery After Massive Weight Loss Like?
These types of surgeries typically require large incisions to remove the surplus skin and tissue. There will be scarring, some of which fade over time. Sometimes, liposuction accompanies the surgery. Recovery time may range from one week to several weeks. Dr. Wald will describe what to expect after your procedure during your pre-surgery consultation.
What Results Can I Expect from Post-Bariatric Surgery Plastic Surgery?
Patients who have had post-bariatric surgery body contouring procedures report great satisfaction with their “new” bodies. You may enjoy better mobility, find it easier to exercise and experience more satisfaction with your weight loss. Setting realistic goals and expectations with our doctor before surgery can help with your post-body contouring surgery contentment.
Interested in Plastic Surgery After Massive Weight Loss in Orange County, CA?
Reach out to the Aesthetic Institute at 714-312-3549 for an appointment to discuss your bariatric surgery journey. You can also fill out our online contact form. Call now to learn more about your post-bariatric surgery body contouring options.