Whether it’s through bariatric surgery, diet, or exercise, losing significant amounts of weight is a life-changing achievement. However, many people who undergo bariatric surgery find that the journey doesn’t end with weight loss. Excess skin and fat, as well as changes in body contours, can leave patients feeling dissatisfied with their appearance. This is where post-bariatric body contouring aesthetics comes into play.
What is post-bariatric body contouring?
Body contouring performed after bariatric surgery refers to a series of surgical and non-surgical procedures designed to address the physical changes that occur after significant weight loss.
Why is body contouring needed after bariatric surgery?
The following problems can occur after weight loss surgery:
Excess Skin: Rapid weight loss can create the appearance of loose, sagging skin, especially in areas such as the abdomen, arms, thighs, and chest.
Stubborn Excess Fat: Despite weight loss, there may be excess fat in some areas that is resistant to diet and exercise.
Contour Irregularities: Changes in body shape, such as flattening of the hips or irregular contours, can negatively affect your self-confidence.
Body shaping aesthetics aims to eliminate these problems, help patients feel confident in their new bodies, and provide a tighter, more proportionate, and more natural appearance.
What are the body shaping procedures after obesity surgery?
Body Contouring Surgery
Body contouring surgery is one of the most effective ways to address excess skin and reshape the body after weight loss. Common procedures performed in body contouring surgery include:
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): Removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles for a flatter, firmer abdomen.
Brachioplasty (Arm Lift): Creates a tighter appearance by eliminating sagging skin in the upper arms.
Thigh Lift: Improves the shape and contour of the thighs by removing loose skin and fat.
Lower Body Contouring/Lift: Addresses excess skin and fat in the abdomen, hips, buttocks, and thighs in a single procedure.
Breast Lift or Reduction: Restores the shape and firmness of breasts that may have sagged or lost volume after weight loss.
Liposuction
Liposuction is ideal for removing stubborn fat deposits that remain after weight loss. It can be used to sculpt areas such as the abdomen, flanks, back, thighs and arms. Modern techniques such as VASER liposuction and laser-assisted liposuction offer more precise results with minimal recovery time.
BBL (Butt Augmentation)
Weight loss can lead to loss of volume in the buttocks. Procedures such as the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) or implants can restore a fuller, more youthful appearance.
What are Non-Surgical Body Contouring methods?
For patients who prefer non-invasive options, non-surgical treatments can help improve body contours:
CoolSculpting: Freezes and destroys fat cells without surgery.
Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments: Tightens loose skin and stimulates collagen production for a firmer appearance.
Laser Skin Tightening: Uses laser energy to improve skin elasticity and reduce sagging.
What are the benefits of body shaping after bariatric surgery?
Improved Physical Appearance: Body shaping procedures remove excess skin and fat, creating a more toned and proportionate silhouette.
Increased Self-Confidence: Having a body that reflects your hard work can increase your self-esteem and mental well-being.
Physical Comfort: Excess skin can cause discomfort, redness, and difficulty with physical activities. Body shaping eliminates these problems.
Long-Term Results: With proper care, the results of body shaping procedures can last for years.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Body Shaping
At Pendik Regional Hospital, we believe that body shaping after obesity is not just about aesthetics; it requires a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team for body contouring includes Plastic Surgeons as well as the following specialists:
Dietician: Provides nutritional guidance to help patients maintain weight loss and support their recovery.
Psychologist: Provides emotional support to help patients adjust to their new bodies and develop a positive outlook.
Physiotherapist: Assists in post-operative recovery and helps patients regain strength and mobility.
This approach ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs and goals.
How does the body shaping process proceed after obesity surgery?
Consultation and Evaluation
The journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where our experts evaluate your medical history, current health, and aesthetic goals. This is when we evaluate the procedures that are most appropriate for you and create a personalized treatment plan.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Before surgery, patients may need to:
- Maintain a stable weight for several months
- Quit smoking to promote healing
- Embrace a healthy diet to optimize healing
Procedure
Depending on the treatments chosen, procedures can take several hours or longer. Most body contouring surgeries are performed under general anesthesia. Nonsurgical options may not require any recovery time.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. Your doctor may ask you to:
- Wear compression garments to reduce swelling and promote healing
- Avoid strenuous activity for several weeks
- Keep up with follow-up appointments to monitor your progress
Sources:
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Yale Medicine
- Oxford Academic