After Weight Loss Surgery

Could Post-Weight Loss Surgery Be Right For You?

Las Vegas plastic surgeon, Dr. Marvin Spann, is a body contouring and skin removal surgeon who specializes in After Weight Loss Surgery. Individuals who lose a significant amount of weight are often left with loose and hanging skin. Many will consider this surgery to complete their transformation. This surgery is a combination of procedures that removes loose skin in the arms, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and flanks. The focus is to remove the loose skin while tightening the underlying tissue and muscles. It is a common surgery for individuals who lose 100 pounds or more and is especially common among bariatric weight loss patients. Patients should be near their goal weight and the weight loss should be stabilized to ensure their safety and health.

What You Should Know About Post-Weight Loss Surgery

What Is Post-Weight Loss Surgery?

Post-weight loss surgery, also known as body contouring surgery or post-bariatric surgery, is a set of procedures designed to remove excess skin and fat that may remain after significant weight loss. While weight loss improves overall health and body function, the skin often cannot adjust to the body's new shape. This can lead to sagging or loose skin, which may cause discomfort, limit mobility, and affect self-confidence.

Common procedures included in post-weight loss surgery are:

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck): Removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal area.
Brachioplasty (arm lift): Removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms.
Thigh lift: Tightens and removes excess skin from the thighs.
Body lift: A comprehensive procedure that addresses the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.
Breast lift or reduction: Restores shape and firmness to the breasts after weight loss.

Post-Weight Loss Surgery Benefits:

Improved body contours: By removing excess skin and fat, body contouring procedures help restore natural body shape and improve proportions.
Enhanced comfort: Many patients experience significant relief from the physical discomfort caused by loose skin, including irritation, chafing, and pain during movement or exercise.
Increased confidence: Post-weight loss surgery can help you feel more confident about your appearance, making it easier to fully embrace your new body.
Better skin appearance: Excess skin can lead to skin folds that may cause rashes, infections, or other skin conditions. Removing the excess skin improves overall skin health and hygiene.
Improved quality of life: Post-weight loss surgery can improve your mobility, allow you to wear a wider variety of clothing, and enhance your overall physical and emotional well-being.

What to Expect?

Conditions Treated: Weight loss patients will consider After Weight Loss Surgery to correct or enhance one or more of the following conditions:
- Deflated and sagging breasts with nipples that point downward
- Loose and hanging skin on the abdomen
- Excess skin and pockets of fat on the hips
- Excess and deflated skin on and under the buttocks
- Loose and hanging skin around the knees and inner thighs
- Hanging skin on the underside of the arms (“bat wings”)
- Loose and hanging skin on the neck (“turkey neck”)
Combinations Surgery: The goal of After Weight Loss Surgery is to reduce the amount of loose skin that collects and hangs on the body and to lift the body part, so it appears tighter. Multiple areas of the body may need to be addressed, depending on the needs of each patient. Depending on your specific needs, Dr. Marvin Spann may group body parts together and stage them in multiple surgeries. Doing so helps reduce the risk of complications, such as blood loss and infection. Examples of this grouping include:
- Upper body (Liposuction, breast lift, tummy tuck, arm lift)
- Lower body (Liposuction, butt lift, thigh lift, lower body lift)

During/After Surgery: After Weight Loss Surgery is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. Patients are usually required to spend the night in the hospital so they can be monitored. The recovery following this surgery can be a slow process. While the post-surgical results can be life-changing for many weight loss patients, scarring is an unfortunate part of this process. Every attempt is made during surgery to minimize scarring as much as possible. Patients should adhere to a healthy lifestyle so that the results achieved through surgery are not compromised.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Like any surgery, post-weight loss surgery carries some risks and potential side effects, including:

Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and can take several weeks to subside.
Scarring: While the incisions are made in areas that are usually hidden by clothing, scarring is inevitable. However, modern techniques minimize scarring, and scars generally fade over time.
Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection. This risk can be minimized by following your surgeon's post-operative care instructions.
Blood clots: There is a risk of developing blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) after surgery, especially if you remain inactive for long periods. Early mobilization and wearing compression garments can help reduce this risk.
Changes in sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or, rarely, permanent changes in sensation in the surgical area due to nerve disruption.
Asymmetry: In some cases, there may be minor differences between the sides of the body after surgery. These are often subtle and may be corrected in follow-up procedures if necessary.

PLAN YOUR PROCEDURE

Here’s what you need to know as you plan your post-weight loss surgery:

Consultation: During your initial consultation, your surgeon will assess your weight loss journey and discuss which procedures are appropriate based on the amount of excess skin, your body goals, and your overall health.
Pre-surgery preparation: You may be asked to follow a pre-surgery protocol, which may include stopping certain medications (such as blood thinners), quitting smoking, and adhering to a healthy diet. These steps will help ensure the best surgical outcome.
Surgical procedure: Post-weight loss surgery is typically performed in stages. Depending on the areas being addressed, you may undergo one or multiple procedures over the course of several months.
Post-surgery care: After surgery, you will need to follow specific care instructions, including wearing compression garments, taking prescribed medications, and avoiding strenuous activities. You may also need help at home during the first few weeks of recovery.
Follow-up appointments: Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing, remove stitches if needed, and assess the overall results. You will be closely monitored for any complications or issues that may arise during recovery.

After Weight Loss Surgery PROCEDURE REVIEWS

The Couture Medical team is very efficient, professional and kind. Dr. Spann was extremely knowledgeable, professional and compassionate.

Jenny Kleinbaum | November 2024

Am I a good candidate for After Weight Loss Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for post-weight loss surgery if:

You have lost a significant amount of weight, either through bariatric surgery, diet, or exercise, and are left with loose or sagging skin.
You have reached a stable weight and are no longer actively losing weight, as weight fluctuations can affect healing and final results.
You are in overall good health and do not have any underlying conditions that would interfere with healing or increase surgical risks.
You are committed to a healthy lifestyle and understand the importance of maintaining weight loss to preserve your surgical results.
You are emotionally prepared for the surgery and recovery process, which may involve a lengthy healing time and multiple procedures.
You have realistic expectations about the results of post-weight loss surgery, understanding that it can significantly improve your body contour but may not result in perfection.

Why choose Couture for post-weight loss surgery procedures? Our team is known for delivering exceptional results with a focus on both aesthetics and safety. With years of experience helping patients after weight loss, we understand the challenges you may face and provide compassionate, individualized care. At Couture, we’re committed to helping you fully embrace your new body and reach your transformation goals. Schedule your consultation today, and take the next step in refining your body after weight loss.

RELATED PROCEDURES

After Weight Loss Surgery Procedure

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does recovery take after post-weight loss surgery?

Recovery time depends on the specific procedure and the extent of surgery. Most patients can return to light activities within 4-6 weeks, but full recovery can take several months. The final results may not be fully visible until after 6-12 months.

Will I have visible scars after post-weight loss surgery?

Scarring is an inevitable part of the procedure, but your surgeon will place the incisions in discreet locations to minimize visibility. Over time, scars will fade and become less noticeable.

Is post-weight loss surgery covered by insurance?

In many cases, post-weight loss surgery is considered cosmetic and may not be covered by insurance. However, if you have physical symptoms such as skin infections, rashes, or mobility issues, some of the surgery may be covered. Check with your insurance provider for details.

Can I combine post-weight loss surgery with other procedures?

Yes, in some cases, body contouring procedures can be combined with other cosmetic treatments (such as liposuction, breast augmentation, or facial surgery) to achieve comprehensive results. Your surgeon will discuss whether this is appropriate for you.

Will I be able to maintain my results?

Maintaining your results depends on keeping a stable weight and following a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight fluctuations after surgery can affect your results, so it’s important to continue healthy eating and regular exercise.

How much does post-weight loss surgery cost?

The cost varies depending on the extent of the surgery, the areas treated, and your location. During your consultation, your surgeon will provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss financing options.

THE CARE YOU DESERVE

The Results You Desire

Couture Medical is where exceptional care meets exceptional results. Our patient-centered approach ensures that every treatment is designed to not only enhance your appearance but also to boost your confidence and well-being. With us, you receive the care you deserve and the results you’ve always envisioned.