Body Contouring After Weight Loss
"After a quick and substantial weight loss, I chose to have body contouring procedures. Asked if I would do it again, my response is: 'In a heartbeat.'"
You've done the hardest part-- you've lost a substantial amount of weight. Now, you're eating well and exercising to maintain your healthier look. But if you're like others who have lost 50 to 100 pounds or more in a short period of time, your skin may not conform to your new shape.
You may be a candidate for body contouring procedures if you have:
• Loose, hanging folds of skin
• Skin irritation or rash
• Hygiene problems
• Trouble getting clothes to fit well
• Difficulty exercising and performing daily activities
• Back pain
• Hernia
• A poor self-image
Our board-certified plastic surgeons have years of experience in body contouring procedures after weight loss, refining traditional techniques to achieve dramatic results.
"After a lifetime of struggle, I finally have the body I've always wanted."
OUR UNIQUE APPROACH
Just as no two people lose weight in the same way, our approach to body contouring is as individual as you are. Achieving optimum results often requires us to address the contour of your entire body, not just an isolated problem area.
We will determine the most appropriate procedures for you through an extensive, confidential consultation. Together, we will choose body and facial techniques to tighten your skin and smooth stubborn areas such as the abdomen, chest, thighs, buttocks, arms and neck.
BODY CONTOURING
Your unique treatment program may involve a combination of procedures for the upper body, lower body, and face.
• Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty/ Panniculectomy)
A tummy tuck is the most common procedure performed after substantial weight loss. The surgeon removes loose skin and fat and tightens the abdominal skin. In some cases, the surgery involves both horizontal and vertical incisions or muscle tightening to achieve the desired result.
• Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) /Lower Body Lift
A lower body lift removes excess skin from the inner and outer thighs, hips, and buttocks, improving their shape. After a lower body lift, many patients find it easier to move and be active. Their clothes fit better and they feel comfortable in more attractive, tailored styles.
• Upper Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
This procedures removes sagging, unattractive skin under the upper arm between the armpit and the elbow.
• Liposuction
Liposuction may be used in combination with other procedures to remove extra fat from around the abdomen, arms, waist, hips, thighs, and inner knees.
• Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Removing excess skin in the breast area creates a more elevated, flattering contour.
• Breast Enlargement (Augmentation)
Breast enlargement adds volume and symmetry to breasts that have lost their shape.
• Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
Removing extra skin and breast tissue results in a smoother contour in the chest area in men.
FACIAL CONTOURING
• Facelift/Neck Lift (Rhytidectomy)
Rapid weight loss can affect the face and neck, leaving sagging skin under the chin and an unbalanced distribution of fat. A face and/or neck lift can improve facial contours and restore an attractive neckline.
RECOVERY AND HEALING
Each procedure has a typical recovery and healing process, but each person responds to surgery differently. After surgery, you'll receive care instructions to speed healing and enhance your comfort. Throughout the recovery process, we will follow up to answer any questions you may have and to ensure the best possible outcome.
"After a great deal of research, I decided on a surgeon from the Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. The entire experience exceeded every expectation I had."
TIMELINE AFTER SUBSTANTIAL WEIGHT LOSS
9-12 MONTHS
Follow up with bariatric surgeon or primary care physician and consultation with a plastic surgeon for body contouring
13 MONTHS
Schedule surgery and begin insurance authorization
15-16 MONTHS
First body contouring surgery performed
19+ MONTHS
Second surgery performed (may include cosmetic procedures)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How soon after weight loss should I schedule body contouring procedures?
Typically, you will have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon or primary care physician about one year after bariatric surgery or substantial weight loss. This is also an ideal time to make an appointment for an initial consultation about body contouring.
During your first consultation, we will listen to learn more about your treatment to date and goals for the future. We will explain your options in detail and give you information to take home and consider.
Does insurance cover body contouring?
Certain procedures may be covered to correct conditions such as skin irritation and rash, hygiene problems, and back pain. We will guide you through the authorization process if your insurance plan covers the procedures you choose.
Do I need to lose more weight before surgery?
Ideally, you should be within 10 to 15 pounds of your target weight before body contouring. Typically, contouring procedures can be scheduled about 1 year after your bariatric surgery and/or weight loss; other procedures can be scheduled 3 to 4 months after your first procedure.
How do I maintain my new look?
It is essential to continue your commitment to exercise and proper nutrition. Your body will continue to change and adapt, and you may experience hair loss and changes in your skin such as uneven tone and texture, dryness, and sudden breakouts. Vitamin supplements and nutritional counseling are important, as is a proper skin care regimen.
Our skilled skin care specialists can design a program of at-home and in-office services to treat common skin problems after weight loss and improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.