Surgery after Massive Weight Loss

Despite new diets and exercise fads, sustained weight loss continues to elude most people. There are nearly 79 million obese people in the US. Gastric bypass surgery has helped many shed weight permanently, though diet and exercise can work too. No matter how the weight is lost, the post weight loss changes have left patients with new problems to deal with in spite of the newfound health gains.
Massive weight loss patients often have loose, saggy skin. The skin has lost its elasticity from being stretched and will not rebound and tighten up as before. Stretch marks are often present, which form when the skin has stretched faster than it can handle.
There are surgeries to correct the skin changes after weight loss anywhere from head to toe. Usually the abdomen is a primary concern due to the excess skin present after the weight loss. Removing this excess skin is beneficial as patients find their clothes fit better, and it can correct the unwanted side effects of excess skin such as rashes or odor. In some patients, their buttocks have deflated with the weight loss and will require a body lift or other augmentation to correct. Breast lifts in women, or gynecomastia surgery in men, can be done in conjunction with the abdominal surgery.
In older patients, facelifts or neck lifts are required to remove the excess skin and tighten the underlying musculature. The massive weight loss can make patients look older than they actually are. Thigh lifts and arm lifts to remove sagging skin and tissue are also performed.
Good candidates for surgery are non-smokers who have been at a stable weight for a year or more with control of any underlying medical problems. Patients after surgery find they have an improved quality of life, mood and self-esteem.
Call us today at 661-253-2211 to discuss your options. Dr. Tran is a board-certified plastic surgeon trained at the Mayo Clinic. Visit us at www.paultranmd.com.