Benefits of Body Re-contouring

Surgical re-contouring after massive weight loss can significantly improve a patient's psychological and physical health. The positive effects are often as profound as the effects of bariatric surgery itself.^1,2

After massive weight loss, many patients are left with loose, hanging skin that can give an irregular or misshapen appearance to the body contour.^3,4 This skin can also cause musculoskeletal strain and impose limitations on walking, maintaining adequate hygiene, bowel and bladder habits, and sexual activity, which can compound the psychosocial challenges inherent to massive weight loss.³

Because many patients opt for a series of plastic surgery procedures - with waiting periods of varying lengths between surgeries - an additional two- to three-year commitment after the initial bariatric procedure may be required.³

References

1. Menderes A, Baytekin C, Haciyanli M, Yilmaz M. Dermalipectomy for body contouring after bariatric surgery in Aegean region of Turkey. Obes Surg 2003;13:637-641.
2. Rubin JP, Nguyen V, Schwentker A. Perioperative management of the post-gastric-bypass patient presenting for body contour surgery. Clin Plast Surg 2004;31:601-10, vi.
3. Chandawarkar RY. Body contouring following massive weight loss resulting from bariatric surgery. Adv Psychosom Med 2006;27:61-72.
4. Zuelzer HB, Baugh NG. Bariatric and body-contouring surgery: a continuum of care for excess and lax skin. Plast Surg Nurs 2007;27:3-13.