Surgery After Massive Weight Loss
If you have lost a significant amount of weight — 100 pounds or more — you may have loose, sagging skin on various parts of your body. This is common in those who have undergone bariatric surgery, such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or gastric banding surgery, but it also happens when weight loss is achieved through diet and exercise. If you are considering surgery after massive weight loss and live in South Jersey or along the shore, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Bidic and Dr. Vinay Gundlapalli of American Surgical Arts can greatly improve the appearance of your skin and the shape of your body.
Contact us Today!
If you are considering body contouring surgery such as liposuction or a tummy tuck after weight loss in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, choose a surgeon with experience and results that exceed your expectations. Request your consultation online, or call (856) 362-8898 to schedule your appointment.
A Consultation That's All About You
One Patient's Experience With Body Contouring After Weight Loss
Surgery after massive weight loss involves a number of body contouring procedures. At American Surgical Arts in New Jersey, these include tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), face and neck lift, breast lift (sometimes combined with breast augmentation), arm lift (brachioplasty), buttock lift, and lower body lift (buttocks, hips, and thighs). The lower body lift after weight loss is a signature procedure of our surgeons.
The surgeon will listen to your concerns and goals, assess your aesthetic and physical needs, and develop a thorough plan with the procedures that will give you the appearance you desire. To gain a clearer understanding of the procedure and results, patients can view many pre- and post-operative photos of satisfied patients and speak with other patients who have had these procedures.
Your Body Contouring Procedure
Body contouring after massive weight loss often involves several stages, depending on the procedure or procedures you and the surgeon determine are best for you. In general, these surgeries involve removing excess skin and lifting and tightening remaining tissues. Incisions are usually made in natural folds or creases so that they are well-concealed. Most post-bariatric cosmetic surgery procedures require general anesthesia, and they often require an overnight stay.
What Is a Lower Body Lift?
Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli specializes in lower body lifts for men and women who have excess skin after losing a significant amount of weight. It is a complicated procedure that requires a plastic surgeon with Dr. Bidic's and Dr. Gundlapalli's experience to get the desired results. Candidates for this procedure should be at a stable weight for several months before undergoing surgery.
The benefits of a lower body lift include that it addresses the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli customizes each lower body lift to meet the individual patient's needs, but the procedure generally includes the steps listed below:
- The surgeon makes a circumferential incision. Essentially, this is a tummy tuck incision that extends around the lower torso. The apron of excess skin and fat below the incision is removed.
- Tissue is repositioned and tightened, followed by pulling up the skin of the buttocks and thighs. Patients are lying on their side or face-down during this portion of the procedure.
- To address the abdominal area and front of the thighs, the surgeon performs a tummy tuck if needed. The other option is an inner thigh lift, which includes a vertical incision. These decisions are made during the consultation. The surgeon closes incisions in multiple layers to support the lifted skin and tissue.
Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli may use liposuction during the lower body lift to improve the contours and remove excess fat. Incisions are made as inconspicuous as possible and are usually below the bikini line. Surgical drains remove fluid from within the incisions during the early stages of the recovery and compression garments help control swelling and support the repositioned tissue and skin.
What Is an Upper Arm Lift?
Another area that is often left with loose skin after losing a significant amount of weight is the upper arms. The excess skin can resemble "bat wings" when holding your arms straight out, earning this condition that unappealing nickname. Men and women who believed they would have more clothing choices after losing weight are often self-conscious about the appearance of their upper arms and avoid sleeveless clothing and swimwear.
An upper arm lift, also called brachioplasty, results in toned arms by surgically removing excess skin. The plastic surgeon makes incisions that extend down the inside of the arm from the area of the armpit to the elbow. The surgeon makes incisions as short and inconspicuous as possible, depending on your needs.
Advanced 3D imaging lets you see the possibilities.
We use VECTRA to help evaluate your needs and better assess the expectations that are possible with surgery. You and Dr. Bidic or Dr. Gundlapalli will be able to review the 3D outcomes for the same procedure you seek.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovering from body contouring surgery requires preparation prior to the surgery and diligently following the postoperative instructions the doctor provides. The duration of the healing process depends on the extent of surgery involved. For example, a patient who undergoes multiple body contouring procedures, such as a tummy tuck with upper arm and breast lifts, may need to remain in the hospital for a couple of days after the procedure.
In all cases of extensive body contouring, patients require rest and should avoid any strenuous activity for several weeks. That doesn't mean patients should remain completely bed-ridden throughout the day, though. Getting up occasionally and gently moving around is a good idea to decrease the chances of complications such as blood clots.
After body contouring to remove loose skin, patients typically experience significant improvements in the way they look and the way they feel, although everyone is different. With your newly streamlined appearance, you may enjoy more confidence and feel more comfortable in and out of clothing.
The Cost of Surgery After Weight Loss
Surgery after weight loss costs vary depending on the type and extent of the procedures performed. If a number of procedures are performed at the same time, rather than separately, the costs will be lower because many of the fees related to surgery are paid only once. That includes:
- Anesthesiologist fee
- Operating room fee
- Medications
Safety is the primary concern, however, when scheduling your body contouring procedure. In many cases, the surgeon recommends staging the body contouring procedures associated with surgery after weight loss because it's a safer treatment plan.
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Recovery After Body Contouring Procedures
Your recovery depends on the types of procedures you have and how many, but all will require rest, limited activity, and compression garments to control swelling. Short walks help circulation, but strenuous activity should be avoided until cleared. Here is what to expect for each procedure.
- Lower Body Lift: This procedure requires an overnight stay, surgical drains, and compression garments. Most patients take four to six weeks off from work and should avoid bending or lifting. Swelling can take months to fully resolve.
- Tummy Tuck: You will need to stay in a bent position at first to reduce tension on the incision. Surgical drains may be placed, and compression garments are required. Light activity resumes in two to three weeks, but heavy lifting is restricted for six weeks.
- Arm Lift: Keeping your arms elevated helps reduce swelling. Avoid lifting or overhead movement for at least four weeks. Most people return to work in two weeks, but full healing takes longer.
- Thigh Lift: Leg elevation and limited movement are key in the first few weeks. A compression garment supports healing, and normal activity resumes in four to six weeks.
- Breast Lift (With or Without Augmentation): A supportive surgical bra is required. Avoid raising your arms above your shoulders for the first few weeks. Most patients return to light activity in one to two weeks, with exercise restricted for six weeks.
We will monitor your healing and guide you through each stage of recovery. Let us know if you have any concerns along the way.
Candidates for Body Contouring
If you have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with loose, excess skin, body contouring may be right for you. The best candidates are at a stable weight, in good health, and have realistic expectations about what surgery can accomplish. Smoking and certain medical conditions can slow healing, so you may need to make some changes before moving forward with surgery.
The best way to find out if body contouring is right for you is to meet with us for a consultation. We will evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and recommend a plan that fits your needs. If you need multiple procedures, we may stage them over time to ensure the safest approach.
Why Choose American Surgical Arts?
Dr. Sean Bidic and Dr. Vinay Gundlapalli are double board-certified surgeons with extensive training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. They perform only well-researched procedures and FDA-approved treatments to ensure reliable outcomes. Their experience includes a range of body contouring procedures that help patients refine their shape after massive weight loss. Every surgical plan is based on proven techniques.
Dr. Bidic and Dr. Gundlapalli also prioritize patient care beyond the operating room. Dr. Bidic, a member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, has been involved with organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the Bidic Family Foundation. Dr. Gundlapalli, a recognized plastic surgeon in South Jersey, takes time to understand each patient’s needs and goals. Their expertise makes American Surgical Arts a trusted option for body rejuvenation in Mullica Hill and Gloucester County.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should You Wait Before Surgery After Massive Weight Loss?
We recommend waiting at least six months to a year after reaching a stable weight before having body contouring surgery. This allows your body to adjust and ensures that your weight loss is complete. Being at a steady weight will help you get the best surgical results.
What Are the Scarring Expectations for Body Contouring Procedures?
Scarring is unavoidable, but surgeons place incisions in areas that can be concealed by clothing or natural folds. Over time, scars fade and become less noticeable, though their final appearance varies by individual. Proper wound care, avoiding sun exposure, and using recommended scar treatments can improve healing.
How Does Liposuction Fit Into Body Rejuvenation After Weight Loss?
Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits but does not tighten loose skin. It is often combined with body contouring procedures like a tummy tuck or lower body lift to refine results. In post-weight loss patients, liposuction can smooth areas where you still have excess fat.
What Are the Risks of Body Contouring?
Like any surgery, body contouring carries risks, including infection, poor wound healing, scarring, and changes in sensation. More extensive procedures may also increase the risk of complications like fluid buildup or blood clots. Choosing a board-certified surgeon and following post-operative care instructions help reduce risks.
How Do You Maintain Your Results After Post-Weight Loss Surgery?
Maintaining a stable weight through healthy eating and regular exercise is key to preserving your results. Significant weight fluctuations can cause new skin laxity or changes in body shape. Staying hydrated and taking care of your skin can also help maintain firmness over time.
Does Insurance Cover Surgery for Excess Skin Removal?
Insurance may cover excess skin removal if it is deemed medically necessary, such as when loose skin causes rashes, infections, or mobility issues. Procedures performed solely for cosmetic reasons are usually not covered. It is best to check with your provider to understand your coverage and any required documentation.
Can Body Contouring Help With Loose Skin From Pregnancy?
Yes, body contouring can remove excess skin and restore a firmer shape after pregnancy, which is usually referred to as a “Mommy Makeover.” Procedures like a tummy tuck, breast lift, or liposuction can address stretched skin and changes in body shape. It is recommended to wait until you are finished having children for the longest-lasting results.
Schedule a Consultation at American Surgical Arts!
If you are unsatisfied with your appearance after losing weight, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Sean Bidic and Dr. Vinay Gundlapalli for a Post-Weight Loss Surgery consultation! Call (856) 362-8898 or fill out the email contact form below. Our practice looks forward to serving you!