Post-Massive Weight Loss Surgery

What is Post-Massive Weight Loss Surgery?

After undergoing significant weight loss, whether through bariatric surgery, diet, exercise, or other methods, many individuals are left with excess, sagging skin. This skin does not always ‘snap back’ due to factors like age, genetics, and the length of time someone was overweight. Post-massive weight loss surgery, often termed body contouring, involves a range of surgical procedures designed to remove this excess skin, tighten the remaining tissue, and improve the overall shape and tone of the underlying tissue. It’s the finishing touch on a person’s transformative weight loss journey, helping to match their outer appearance with their inner achievement.

Post-Massive Weight Loss Surgery Real Results

How It’s Done

Post-massive weight loss surgery is not a single procedure, but rather an umbrella term that encompasses several surgical interventions to address the diverse needs of individuals who have undergone significant weight loss. The drastic reduction in body weight often leads to excess skin in multiple areas of the body. To address this, there are several types of excess skin removal procedures tailored to specific regions of the body. Here are the common procedures:
This procedure, aimed at the “bat wings” or saggy skin on the underside of the upper arm, involves incisions from the armpit to the elbow. It trims away excess skin and is typically done discreetly, so scars are well hidden.
Designed to lift the breasts by reshaping them, it may require multiple incisions, especially if there’s significant drooping. The nipple and areola get repositioned, enhancing the breast’s overall appearance.
Incisions are made around the areola and down each breast. Excess tissue and skin are removed, the breast is reshaped, and the nipple is repositioned.
This targets fat pockets and loose skin on the upper/middle back. An incision, hidden under the bra line, is made to sculpt the back.
Excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen are removed through a hip-to-hip incision. The skin around the belly button is repositioned, and the abdominal muscles can be tightened.
Beyond the traditional tummy tuck, this procedure includes an additional vertical incision for enhanced contouring, especially beneficial after massive weight loss.
This targets the skin on the back, with incisions across the back, enhancing its toned appearance.
A comprehensive procedure, it might encompass various lifts like tummy tucks, butt lifts, and more.
Combining a tummy tuck with a thigh lift, it removes sagging skin through incisions from the back to the front thighs.
It focuses on the upper back and sides, with scars typically concealed under the bra line.
This involves an incision along the lower back, lifting the buttocks by pulling up the skin below the incision and removing extra tissue.
A BBL augments the buttocks using fat from other body parts, typically the abdomen, thighs, or hips.
To achieve smoother thighs, incisions are made on both inner and outer thighs, allowing the removal of excess skin and fat.
Specifically focusing on the removal of the ‘pannus’ or the hanging skin and tissue from the lower abdomen, this surgery is beneficial for those with significant overhanging skin after weight loss.
By combining these procedures, a Mommy Makeover addresses multiple concerns in one or a few surgical sessions, offering a comprehensive rejuvenation tailored to each woman’s vision of her post-childbirth body.

Why Plano Plastic Surgery?

At Plano Plastic Surgery, excellence is our standard. Both Dr. Haidenberg, with his 16 years of experience in cosmetic surgery, and Dr. Yaker, the celebrated force behind Plano Plastic Surgery, have dedicated years to perfecting aesthetic surgeries—from breast augmentations to rhinoplasties and liposuctions. With them, you’re not just opting for transformative results but also genuine care and understanding. Our approach is personal—tailored to every patient’s concerns and desires.

When Is the Best Time to Start Get Post-Massive Weight Loss Surgery?

Ideally, one’s weight should remain stable for at least three months before undergoing any plastic surgery procedure. It’s essential to ensure that there aren’t any significant fluctuations, either weight loss or gain, during this period. Immediate surgical intervention may be considered in specific situations where excess skin leads to mobility challenges, persistent irritations, or other medical complications. 

Nonetheless, each individual’s journey and needs are unique. A consultation with a our surgeons, board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Yaker, can provide clarity on whether immediate post-bariatric surgery is suitable or if a waiting period would yield the best outcomes.

Who is a Good Candidate?

If you’ve lost a significant amount of weight and now have excess, saggy skin, you might be a candidate for post-massive weight loss surgery. It’s essential to be in good health and have a stable weight for a few months. Non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after the procedure heal better. Before deciding, discuss with a plastic surgeon to see if this surgery is right for you.

Recovery and What to Expect

Post-massive weight loss surgery is a significant procedure, and the recovery process is multi-faceted:

Immediate Post-Operative Phase (1-2 weeks):

The immediate period after surgery will involve some pain, swelling, and discomfort. Surgical dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. Small, thin tubes might also be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.

Mid Recovery Phase (3-8 weeks):

As the days progress, mobility will increase, but patients will need to avoid strenuous activity. Compression garments might be required to reduce swelling and support the affected areas.

Long-Term Recovery:

Over the ensuing weeks and months, the body will continue to heal. While most of the significant healing occurs within the first few months, some minor swelling or changes might continue for up to a year.

Final Results:

The body will settle into its new shape over time. Most patients can see their final results between 6 to 12 months post-operation. Scars, while permanent, will fade considerably over time, especially with proper care.
Post-massive weight loss surgery is a significant procedure, and the recovery process is multi-faceted: