Weight Loss/Bariatric

Body Contouring after Bariatric Surgery

Following the significant amount of weight loss after gastric bypass or lap band surgery, a person can be permanently left with a lot of excess hanging skin, due to the lack of elasticity. The most common areas for excess skin redundancy are the face, neck, breasts, abdomen, flanks, arms and armpits, back, buttocks, thighs, legs, and calves. This excess skin also can cause hygienic problems, skin irritation, skin breakdown and pain, and infection. Facial and body contouring procedures can help a patient obtain the best possible body shape, which is hidden underneath all the excess skin. Some of the procedures Dr. Gupta performs for post-bariatric surgery patients include: Facelift, Necklift, Arm Lift, Chest Lift, Breast Lift, Back Lift, Buttock Lift, Thigh Lift, Extended Abdominoplasty, Circumferential Body Lift

Body Lift Surgery

Body lift, also known as belt lipectomy, is a procedure that raises and reshapes unsightly, sagging body contours. During the aging process, skin loses some elasticity, causing the mid-section to lose its natural shape and firmness. This procedure is designed to remove loose skin and related fat deposits, thus providing a more youthful appearance. A body lift can be applied to the lower torso and upper legs, including the abdomen, waist, inner/outer thighs, buttocks, and/or hips. Liposuction may also be completed in conjunction with a body lift.

Reasons for Considering a Body Lift:

• Reshape mid-body contour
• Correct sagging skin and fat due to aging or excessive weight loss
• Remedy weight gain and stretched skin caused by multiple pregnancies

General Procedure

The procedure varies with each patient, depending on his or her body type and desired surgical outcome. Generally speaking, the body lift procedure entails making an incision that follows the upper and/or inner thigh, to the waistline. In more extensive surgeries, the incision goes completely around the waist and lower back. Adjustments to the buttocks and thighs require an incision at the crease of the buttocks. Excess skin is then removed, followed by the underlying fat deposits. Finally, the skin is pulled taught and sutured into the new configuration. The entire procedure can last from three to seven hours. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions require plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. Bandages are applied right after surgery to minimize swelling and provide support. Tubes are often placed to drain excess fluids. The scars resulting from the incisions are permanent but are carefully placed so as to minimize visibility. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery, which can be treated with oral medication. Recovery time varies with the extent of the procedure. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions that are given after the surgery.

Extended Abdominoplasty

An extended abdominoplasty and full body lift is a procedure that raises and reshapes unsightly, sagging body contours. During the aging process or significant weight gain, skin loses some elasticity, causing the mid-section to lose its natural shape and firmness. This procedure is designed to remove loose skin and related fat deposits, thus providing a more youthful appearance. A body lift can be applied to the lower torso and upper legs, including the abdomen, waist, inner/outer thighs, buttocks, and/or hips. Liposuction may also be completed in conjunction with a body lift.

Reasons for Considering a Body Lift:

• Reshape mid-body contour
• Correct sagging skin and fat due to aging or excessive weight loss
• Remedy weight gain and stretched skin caused by multiple pregnancies

General Procedure

The procedure varies with each patient, depending on his or her body type and desired surgical outcome. Generally speaking, the body lift procedure entails making an incision that follows the upper and/or inner thigh, to the waistline. In more extensive surgeries, the incision goes completely around the waist and lower back. Adjustments to the buttocks and thighs require an incision at the crease of the buttocks. Excess skin is then removed, followed by the underlying fat deposits. Finally, the skin is pulled taught and sutured into the new configuration. The entire procedure can last from three to seven hours. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions require plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. Bandages are applied right after surgery to minimize swelling and provide support. Tubes are often placed to drain excess fluids. The scars resulting from the incisions are permanent but are carefully placed so as to minimize visibility. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery, which can be treated with oral medication. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the procedure. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions that are given after the surgery.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Dr. Abhay Gupta is a plastic surgeon San Diego patients trust to provide comprehensive care and beautiful aesthetic results. Because he is skilled in a number of body contouring surgeries, including abdominoplasty and liposuction, Dr. Gupta is able to perform combination procedures such as body lift. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling (858) 408-6100.