Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Dr. Berry Fairchild is a renowned board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston, TX, who is dedicated to providing personalized care to her patients who have worked hard to lose large amounts of weight. She works closely with each patient, listening to their concerns and goals, to develop a tailored treatment plan that achieves the best possible outcome. Dr. Fairchild’s expertise in post-weight loss procedures coupled with compassionate care allows patients to regain confidence in their appearance and enjoy a more contoured silhouette.

What Is Post-Weight Loss Surgery?

Cosmetic surgery after massive weight loss, also known as skin removal surgery, aims to eliminate excess skin and fat from the body. Individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, often through bariatric procedures such as gastric bypass surgery, may experience difficulty in achieving their desired body shape due to stubborn fat deposits and Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Body Contouring Skin Removal After Major Weight Loss ASPS Go to Source loose skin . Moreover, excess skin left after weight loss can cause health problems such as chafing and other discomforts. Removing this extra skin can help patients attain a more streamlined physique that reflects their healthy lifestyle and weight loss efforts.

Post-weight loss surgery treatment plans are surgical procedures that aim to remove excess skin and fat from the body after a significant weight loss and can help patients achieve a more toned and proportional appearance. This excess skin can cause discomfort, difficulty fitting into clothing, and self-consciousness. Common post-weight loss surgeries include body lifts, tummy tucks, arm lifts, and thigh lifts, among others. The specific procedures recommended by Dr. Fairchild will depend on your individual needs and the areas of your body where excess skin and fat are present.

Curvy woman posing in bodysuit

Benefits of Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Post-weight loss surgery offers several benefits to patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and have excess skin and fat that cannot be eliminated through diet and exercise. Some of the benefits of post-weight loss surgery include:

  • Improved Appearance: Post-weight loss surgery can remove excess skin and fat, resulting in a more toned and proportional appearance. This can improve self-esteem and body image, leading to increased confidence.
  • Enhanced Mobility: Excess skin and fat can make it difficult to move around comfortably. Post-weight loss surgery can eliminate these challenges, making it easier to perform physical activities and exercise.
  • Improved Hygiene: Excess skin folds can be challenging to keep clean, leading to skin irritation and infections. Post-weight loss surgery can remove the excess skin, making it easier to maintain proper hygiene.
  • Improved Health: Excess skin and fat can cause health problems, including skin infections, rashes, and back pain.
  • Long-Term Results: Post-weight loss surgery provides long-term results, as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Post-Weight Loss Body Contouring Options

Dr. Fairchild takes each weight loss patient’s unique needs into account when customizing post-weight loss surgical procedures, which may include:

Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightens the abdominal muscles. This procedure is often sought by individuals who have excess skin and fat in their abdominal area due to significant weight loss.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that combines a traditional tummy tuck with the removal of excess skin and fat from the hips, flanks, and lower back. This procedure is often recommended for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and have excess skin and fat in their abdominal area and surrounding areas.

Panniculectomy

A panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess sagging skin and fat from the lower abdomen, known as the pannus. The pannus is the apron of skin that hangs down over the pubic area and is often seen in individuals who have undergone significant weight loss or bariatric surgery. Unlike a tummy tuck, which involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the entire abdomen, a panniculectomy focuses only on the lower abdomen. This procedure can alleviate skin irritation, infections, and other complications caused by the excess hanging skin.

Liposuction

After major weight loss, some individuals may have excess fat deposits in certain areas that cannot be eliminated through diet and exercise. Liposuction can help remove these stubborn fat deposits from specific areas of the body, including the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms, and neck, and improve the overall contour of the body, which can help individuals achieve a more toned and proportional appearance.

Neck Lift

A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the neck by tightening the skin and underlying muscles. This procedure is often sought by individuals who are experiencing sagging or loose skin in the neck area due to aging or weight loss.

Arm Lift

After major weight loss, some individuals may have excess skin and fat in their upper arms that can cause discomfort, irritation, and self-consciousness. An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms and tightens the underlying tissues to create a more toned and proportionate appearance. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, an arm lift can also help individuals to improve their range of motion and reduce discomfort caused by excess skin and fat in the upper arms.

Thigh Lift

After significant weight loss, excess skin and fat in their inner and outer thighs can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and difficulty fitting into clothing. A thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the thighs and tightens the underlying tissues to create a smoother, more toned appearance. In addition to improving the appearance of the thighs, a thigh lift can also improve mobility and reduce discomfort caused by excess skin and fat in the thigh area.

Lower Body Lift

After major weight loss, it’s common to have excess skin and fat in the lower back, buttocks, and outer and inner thighs, which can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and difficulty fitting into clothing. A lower body lift is a surgical procedure that targets these areas and removes excess skin and fat to create a smoother, more contoured appearance. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, a lower body lift can also improve mobility and reduce discomfort caused by excess skin and fat in the lower back, buttocks, and thighs.

Breast Lift

Significant weight loss can often lead to changes in the appearance of their breasts, including sagging, loss of volume, and stretched skin. This can cause discomfort, self-consciousness, and difficulty finding clothing that fits well. A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, can be combined with breast reduction, and are surgical procedures that aim to restore a more youthful, lifted appearance to the breasts.

Preparing For Post-Weight Loss Body Contouring Surgery

Preparing for weight loss body contouring surgery involves a few key steps to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize potential risks. First, it’s important to reach and maintain a stable weight for at least several months prior to surgery to ensure that any excess weight has been lost and the body has had time to adjust. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen will support your overall health and help you prepare for surgery. It is also important to quit smoking and avoid alcohol consumption in the weeks leading up to surgery, as these substances can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. Finally, you should follow Dr. Fairchild’s instructions regarding medications to avoid, preoperative testing, and other preoperative preparations to ensure a safe and successful surgery. By taking these steps, you can help ensure the best possible outcome and a smooth recovery following weight loss body contouring surgery.

Recovery After Post-Weight Loss Surgery

The recovery period after weight loss body contouring surgery can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and your overall health. Patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days and weeks following surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and rest. You can expect to wear compression garments to support the healing tissues and reduce swelling. In addition, it’s important to avoid strenuous activity and exercise for several weeks or longer, depending on Dr. Fairchild’s recommendations. You should also plan to take time off work and arrange for help with daily tasks during the initial recovery period. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Fairchild so she can monitor your healing progress and ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. While recovery can be a challenging process, patients who follow Dr. Fairchild’s instructions and take care of themselves can expect to see Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Does Body Contouring After Bariatric Weight Loss Enhance Quality of Life? Obesity Surgery Go to Source significant improvements in their body shape and overall quality of life over time.

FAQs About Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Who is a good candidate for post-weight loss surgery?

Good candidates for post-weight loss surgery are individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight, either through bariatric surgery or other means, and have excess skin and sagging tissue in various areas of the body. Candidates should also be in good overall health and have a stable weight for several months prior to surgery. They should also have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure and be committed to maintaining a Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Body Lift Candidates ASPS Go to Source healthy lifestyle , including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to optimize the results of the surgery. It is important to discuss candidacy for post-weight loss surgery with Dr. Fairchild to determine whether the procedure is appropriate for your specific needs and goals.

How do I know what post-weight loss procedure is right for me?

Choosing the right post-weight loss surgery body contouring option can depend on several factors, including your overall health, body type, and the areas of the body that are of most concern. Dr. Fairchild will take into account your goals when recommending the most appropriate procedure or combination of procedures to achieve your desired outcome.

Ultimately, the decision of which procedure to undergo will be made in collaboration between you and Dr. Fairchild, taking into consideration your preferences, medical history, and Dr. Fairchild’s recommendations. You should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing any concerns they may have to ensure that you are well-informed and confident in your decision.

How long does the recovery period last after post-weight loss surgery?

The recovery period after post-weight loss surgery can vary depending on the specific procedure performed, as well as the individual’s overall health and the extent of the surgery. In general, patients can expect to need several weeks to several months to fully recover and see the final results of the surgery.

Immediately after surgery, it’s common to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, as well as limited mobility and discomfort in the treated areas. Dr. Fairchild will provide instructions for post-operative care, including medications, wound care, and activity restrictions. It’s important to plan for time off work and other activities to allow the body to heal and recover properly.

During the first few weeks after surgery, patients should avoid strenuous activity and follow Dr. Fairchild’s instructions for gradually increasing physical activity. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet, get plenty of rest, and attend follow-up appointments with Dr. Fairchild to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.

Overall, the recovery period after post-weight loss surgery can be a significant commitment, but patients can expect to see noticeable improvements in their body contours and self-confidence over time.

Will post-weight loss surgery leave visible scars?

Post-weight loss surgery can leave visible scars, as incisions are typically made in order to remove excess skin and reshape the body. However, Dr. Fairchild is a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who will take great care to minimize scarring and ensure that scars are placed in locations that can be easily hidden by clothing.

The extent and visibility of scarring can vary depending on the specific procedure performed, as well as individual factors such as the patient’s skin type and the size of the area treated. Some procedures, such as a tummy tuck or arm lift, may leave more noticeable scars than others.

During the initial consultation, Dr. Fairchild will discuss scarring with you and provide detailed information about the expected location, size, and appearance of scars based on the specific procedure. She will also explain post-operative scar care and provide recommendations for minimizing scarring, such as keeping the incision sites clean and moisturized and avoiding direct sun exposure.

While some scarring may be inevitable with post-weight loss surgery, many patients find that the benefits of the procedure and improved body confidence far outweigh any visible scarring.

What are the risks and potential complications associated with post-weight loss surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, post-weight loss surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. These can vary depending on the specific procedure performed, as well as individual factors such as your overall health and medical history. Possible risks and complications associated with post-weight loss surgery include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, blood clots, seroma or hematoma, delayed wound healing, nerve damage, and Trusetd Source Checkbox Trusted Source Body Contouring After Weight Loss: What You Need to Know Johns Hopkins Medicine Go to Source anesthesia risks.

Will insurance cover the cost of post-weight loss surgery?

In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of post-weight loss surgery, but it depends on the specific circumstances and insurance policy. Insurance companies may consider post-weight loss surgery to be cosmetic and therefore not medically necessary, and therefore not covered. However, if you can demonstrate that the surgery is medically necessary to treat a health condition caused by excess skin, such as chronic skin irritation or infections, then your insurance may provide coverage.

You should check with their insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for post-weight loss surgery and under what circumstances. In cases where insurance does not cover the cost of the procedure, Dr. Fairchild is proud to offer financing options to help make your surgery more affordable.

How much weight can be lost with post-weight loss surgery?

Post-weight loss surgery is not intended as a weight loss tool and does not directly result in weight loss. Rather, it is a body contouring procedure that removes excess skin and fat to improve the appearance and shape of the body after significant weight loss. The amount of weight that can be lost through post-weight loss surgery can vary depending on the patient and the specific procedure performed.

While post-weight loss surgery may remove a significant amount of excess skin and fat, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to ensure long-term weight maintenance and overall health.

What kind of results can I expect from post-weight loss surgery?

The results of post-weight loss surgery can be dramatic and life-changing for many patients. In addition to removing excess skin and fat, the procedure is designed to tighten and tone the remaining tissue, and create a smoother, more contoured body shape.

After post-weight loss surgery, you can expect to see a significant improvement in the appearance of your body. Clothes may fit better, and many patients feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. In addition to the cosmetic benefits, post-weight loss surgery can also help alleviate physical symptoms associated with excess skin, such as chafing and skin irritation.

However, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand that the results of post-weight loss surgery can vary depending on the individual patient and the specific procedure performed. Factors such as age, overall health, and the amount of excess skin and fat being removed can all affect the final outcome. It is important to discuss your goals and expectations with Dr. Fairchild to ensure that you have a clear understanding of what can realistically be achieved through post-weight loss surgery.

How can I maintain the results of post-weight loss surgery?

Maintaining the results of post-weight loss surgery can require a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet. While post-weight loss surgery can remove excess skin and fat, it is not a substitute for healthy habits.

To maintain the results of post-weight loss surgery, patients should aim to maintain a stable weight through a combination of regular exercise and a healthy diet. This can help prevent the accumulation of new fat deposits and minimize the risk of excess skin returning.

In addition to a healthy lifestyle, patients may also benefit from regular skin care and hydration, which can help improve the texture and tone of the skin. It is also important to follow Dr. Fairchild’s post-operative instructions, including any recommendations for follow-up appointments and ongoing care.

Schedule A Consultation For Post Weight Loss Surgery

If excess skin after significant weight loss is affecting your comfort and confidence, Dr. Fairchild can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for post-weight loss surgery at our Houston-based practice.

1 ASPS. Body Contouring Skin Removal After Major Weight Loss. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/body-contouring. Accessed March 15, 2023.
2 Obesity Surgery. Does Body Contouring After Bariatric Weight Loss Enhance Quality of Life? A Systematic Review of QOL Studies. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30069862/. Accessed March 15, 2023.
3 ASPS. Body Lift Candidates. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/body-lift/candidates. Accessed March 15, 2023.
4 Johns Hopkins Medicine. Body Contouring After Weight Loss: What You Need to Know. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/body-contouring-after-weight-loss-what-you-need-to-know#. Accessed March 15, 2023.