Cosmetic Surgery after Weight Loss

Bariatric surgery has produced remarkable weight loss results for millions of Americans. Despite the success of these procedures, bariatric surgery patients share one common adverse side effect at the end of their weight loss journey: excess skin. For many of these men and women who have been so successful in achieving their weight loss goals, it can be disheartening to have to face the discomfort and embarrassment of loose, overhanging skin. Post-weight loss cosmetic surgery offers a solution for patients who would like to eliminate a significant amount of excess skin. Plastic surgeons can employ a variety of body contouring procedures in combination to sculpt the entire body. This treatment is commonly referred to as a complete body lift, and may include tummy tuck surgery, liposuction, breast lift, arm lift, and thigh lift.

Risks and Benefits

Post-bariatric body contouring can be extremely rewarding for patients who have lost a massive amount of weight. But it is important to keep in mind that a full body lift is an invasive treatment and will likely require significant recovery time and leave patients with visible scarring. Most surgeons will employ several plastic surgery techniques and operate on multiple areas of the body at once. For most patients who are dealing with the daily discomfort of excess skin, the scarring, cost, and recovery time are all sacrifices they are willing to make.

Choosing a Surgeon

If you have undergone bariatric surgery and are interested in pursuing plastic surgery to remove excess skin, contact an experienced plastic surgeon. To ensure the best result, be candid during your surgical consultation and make sure to follow your physician's instructions after surgery.