Plastic Surgery following weight loss surgery

Gastric bypass surgery has helped many patients improve their lives through successful weight loss. Unfortunately, a large amount of lost weight often results in severe excesses of skin and fat throughout the body. This extra tissue can be unsightly and may cause problems such as back and neck pain. Poorly fitting clothing is also a common complaint.

Body reduction surgery can remove this extra tissue and restore better proportions to a person's body. Extra skin and fat can be removed from the abdomen, arms, thighs, back, breasts and neck. Patients are generally very happy with their appearance after surgery and report that clothing fits better and they are less self-conscious.

FAQs:

How much weight do I have to lose before considering surgery?
In general, patients should be at a stable weight for three to six months prior to undertaking surgery.

Does insurance pay for this type of surgery?
Insurance will sometimes cover the costs of surgery. Approvals are usually on an individual basis. We will advocate for coverage in cases where there are functional problems associated with the excess skin.

Can all the procedures be done at one time?
Because the risks associated with surgery increase with surgical time, not all procedures can be done at one time. Your doctor can discuss the safest way to achieve your goals.

How much time will I have to take off from work?
The recovery period depends on the specific surgery performed. Patients can resume normal activities usually within a week following arm lifts and breast lifts. Abdominoplasties and thigh lifts require an additional week or two of recuperation.

What do the scars look like after surgery?
The scars from body reduction surgery usually fade well with time and are well accepted by patients.