Obesity is a serious problem for many adults in the US. Thankfully, bariatric surgery (or weight loss surgery) is available for those in need of assistance dropping excess pounds and returning to a healthier bodyweight. Bariatric surgery can save lives, but in many cases, there is still work to do for patients who want to truly stay healthy and rejuvenate their appearance after their weight loss is over. Any case of significant weight loss (surgical or otherwise) can leave a person with loose, sagging skin that can negatively affect how they look and feel. This is why I perform post-bariatric (or post-weight loss) surgery for patients who wish to achieve a trimmer, tighter, and more contoured physique following their weight loss.
Post-bariatric surgery can help people by removing the sagging skin that persists around the face, neck, abdomen, arms, breasts, buttocks, and other areas following major weight loss. To help explain the amazing effect these procedures can have, I have answered some common questions about post-bariatric surgery and who it can help.
Question #1: Will post-bariatric surgery help contribute to additional weight loss?
Yes. I have seen patients lose as much as 100 pounds as a result of post-bariatric surgery. Typically, a patient will lose at least 10 to 15 pounds, depending on their size.
Question #2: What are the most common post-bariatric surgeries performed?
According to statistics collected by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the five most commonly-performed post-bariatric surgeries are lower body lifts, thigh lifts, arm lifts, breast lifts, and tummy tucks.
Question #3: How long after bariatric surgery should I wait before a post-bariatric procedure?
Although this can vary from patient-to-patient, it’s important to give your body the time it needs to fully heal from weight loss surgery before undergoing any post-bariatric procedure. Most plastic surgeons recommend waiting at least 18 months after bariatric surgery before beginning body contouring surgery, but we can discuss a safe, appropriate timeframe during your consultation.
Undergoing bariatric weight loss surgery can be a dramatic, life-changing event. Post-bariatric surgery can help put the finishing touches on your new body contour and jump-start your new lease on life. For more information on post-bariatric surgery, please contact Southern Plastic Surgery today to schedule your complimentary plastic surgery consultation with me, Dr. David Whiteman. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Google+ for more plastic surgery tips, photos, and news.