Losing weight is hard, and while it is something to be immensely proud of, many people struggle with loose, sagging skin.
This extra skin is often uncomfortable and inhibits movement, as well as a constant reminder of your former self. For this reason, many people choose to undergo plastic surgery after their weight loss.
There are several types of cosmetic surgery that can remove excess skin and improve the shape of arms, thighs, breasts, buttocks, face, and abdomen. This procedure helps you get a firmer, more toned body shape.
[Related: Weight Loss Surgery]
Body Contouring
Also known as a body lift, this surgery is one of the most common procedures used to improve appearance after weight loss. It includes a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, buttock augmentation, breast lift, and arm lift. As long as your weight remains stable after the procedure, the results are long-lasting.
To begin, the surgeon makes one cut along the abdomen and removes the excess, sagging skin. Then, the surgeon lifts and tightens the buttocks, abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, and arms in the same procedure.
Often, liposuction is used to remove fat and improve the contour of the body. You may also choose to have a buttock augmentation since extreme weight loss generally causes the buttocks to flatten.
Body lift surgery can dramatically change your appearance and the results are permanent, aside from natural changes due to aging.
However, it is not without risks. There will be scarring, and some people require to follow up procedures as well.
People with high BMI are more likely to experience complications such as bleeding, infection, tissue death, abnormal scars, and the formation of a seroma. Your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of this procedure with you.
[Related: Plastic Surgery]
Tummy Tuck
This is often part of the body lift surgery. This procedure helps flatten and tighten the stomach. Although it is different than liposuction, you may also need liposuction as part of your tummy tuck.
During a full tummy tuck, the surgeon makes a large cut around the navel that runs from hip bone to hipbone. The skin, tissues, and muscles are then manipulated, and the muscle is repaired if needed.
The surgeon may slightly move your belly button to suit your new body shape. In some cases, excess skin is removed from the upper abdomen. There will be scars but they will fade over time. This procedure results in a flatter, firmer abdomen to compliment your trimmer figure.
Breast Lift
Weight loss often results in volume loss and excess, sagging skin in the breasts. A breast lift helps to lift, firm, and reshape the breasts.
The surgeon removes excess skin and tissue and repositions the nipple higher on the chest. You may also choose to get breast implants during this procedure.
Should You Have Plastic Surgery after Weight Loss?
If your weight is stable and you are in good health, and not a smoker, you are a good candidate for plastic surgery.
It’s important that you are dedicated to your nutrition and fitness to ensure optimal results. If you are planning to become pregnant, you should consider waiting until after you are done having children.
If you are ready to get rid of your excess skin and improve your appearance, contact Dr. Faulkner Today!
