Top Procedures for Post Weight Loss
Weight loss surgery can help you lose pounds and get closer to your body goals, but you may consider additional procedures to address the excess fat pockets or loose, sagging skin that comes from drastic weight loss. Getting informed about the types of post-weight-loss surgeries available can help you choose the right procedures to achieve your desired shape.
Common Plastic Surgery Procedures Done After Significant Weight Loss
Consult with your doctor about which of the following procedures may be best for your situation:
- Tummy tuck: Also known as an abdominoplasty, a post-weight-loss tummy tuck is a common option for individuals looking to remove stubborn fat in this area. This procedure flattens your stomach while tightening the abdominal muscles.
- Panniculectomy: This procedure involves removing of the pannus of tissue overhanging the pubic and groin areas which often causes irritation, rashes, open wounds, and even infections. At times, when certain criteria are met, insurance plans may cover the cost of a panniculectomy.
- Skin removal: Skin removal consists of several types of lifting procedures, such as arm lifts and thigh and buttock lifts. These surgeries involve removing excess skin and fat and lifting the remaining tissue for a smoother appearance.
- Liposuction: Liposuction removes fat deposits and is often combined with a body lift so that your rejuvenated skin will conform to your body without extra pockets of fat.
- Breast lift: A breast lift provides a firmer appearance and creates more symmetry by removing sagging skin and reshaping the breast tissue. Breast augmentation can be combined with this type of surgery.
- Body contouring: This term describes any procedure that reshapes a part of the body, though it can also refer to a combination of various surgeries — such as the previously mentioned procedures — to improve the appearance of multiple areas of the body at once.
How Long to Wait for Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss
Before receiving weight loss plastic surgery, you should give your body adequate time to heal from the initial procedure. This wait time is typically anywhere from six to 12 months, but it can change depending on your individual case. You should be at a point where you have reached your goal weight and your weight has stabilized, as large fluctuations can affect your results. Giving your skin and tissues time to settle makes it easier for your surgeon to produce a more precise surgical plan.
It’s also important that you have adjusted to your new diet and lifestyle so that your results will be better maintained after plastic surgery. Additionally, a lower BMI is associated with a reduced risk of complications after surgery and may make recovery easier, so be sure that you’re at or near your goal BMI.
How Long Is Plastic Surgery Recovery Time?
Your recovery time will depend on which surgery you get and whether you decide to receive multiple surgeries. Recovery usually takes weeks or months and will likely require you to take time away from work and other responsibilities for the first few weeks. Because body contouring often combines several procedures, your total recovery time will be consolidated compared to getting multiple surgeries at separate times.
Choose Southern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgical Institute for Surgery After Weight Loss
If you’re considering plastic surgery after hitting your weight loss goals, contact SPRSI to schedule a consultation and see if you’re a good candidate. We specialize in various plastic surgery types and use advanced techniques to help patients boost their confidence and achieve the appearance they’ve been dreaming of.
