What is body contouring after massive weight loss?

Body contouring after major weight loss improves the shape and tone of your underlying tissue that supports fat and skin and removes excess sagging fat and skin. Dramatic weight loss has many benefits. But after weight reduction surgery, or any substantial amount of weight loss, the skin and tissues often lack the elasticity to conform to the reduced body size.

What you should know before undergoing body contouring surgery

• · You may only be considered a good candidate for body contouring if you are:
• · An adult whose weight loss has stabilized
• · A healthy individual without medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
• · A non-smoker
• · An Individual with a positive outlook and realistic goals
• · An Individual that is committed to leading a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and fitness

Be prepared to discuss:

• · Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
• · Medical conditions, drug allergies and previous medical treatments
• · Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use
• · Previous surgeries

Your surgeon may also:

• · Evaluate your general health and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• · Examine your body and take detailed measurements
• · Take photographs for your medical record
• · Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
• · Discuss likely outcomes of body contouring and any risks or potential complications

Important facts about the safety and risks of body contouring surgery

The decision to have body contouring surgery is extremely personal and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable.

Your plastic surgeon and/or staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo and any risks and potential complications.

The risks include:

• · Unfavourable scarring
• · Bleeding (hematoma)
• · Infection
• · Fluid accumulation
• · Poor wound healing
• · Skin loss
• · Blood clots
• · Numbness or other changes in skin sensation
• · Anaesthesia risks
• · Skin discoloration and/or prolonged swelling
• · Fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die (fat necrosis)
• · Major wound separation
• · Asymmetry
• · Recurrent looseness of skin
• · Pain, which may persist
• · Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
• · Persistent swelling in the legs
• · Possibility of revision surgery

Be sure to ask questions:

It’s very important to ask your plastic surgeon questions about your body contouring procedure. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.