Body contouring after massive weight loss is an all-inclusive set of procedures primarily geared for those patients who have a history of obesity with subsequent loss of extensive weight, usually in excess of 80 lbs. Many times the patient seeking this procedure has a history of gastric bypass surgery.
Dr. Michael Kluska performs these procedures frequently and is a member of the Shaping-Futures body contouring organization sponsored by Ethicon (a Johnson & Johnson company). Because many massive-weight-loss patients experience flattening of the breast and gluteal region following their weight loss, Dr. Kluska uses a technique known as autologous tissue augmentation. This allows him to holistically build the breasts and gluteal region using the patient’s own tissues and many times forgoing the need for synthetic implants.
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Who is a candidate for body contouring after massive weight loss?
You may be a candidate for these procedures if you meet the following conditions:
- Achieved massive weight loss through dieting, exercise, or bariatric surgery
- Current weight has been stable for more than 9 months
- BMI (body mass index) that is below 30 after weight loss
Goals of Body Contouring
- Marked reduction in excess skin
- Improved self esteem
- Improved hygiene
Results are Best With:
- An experienced surgeon
- Patient compliance
- Limited abdominal fat
- Non smokers
- Controlled diabetes
- Staging of procedures
- Realistic patient expectations
The Surgery
Procedures performed for the massive-weight-loss patient involve the removal or large amounts of excess skin from the abdomen (abdominoplasty), the posterior gluteal (body lift or belt lipectomy), the upper back and arm regions (arm lift), the medial thigh regions (thighplasty) and the breast area (breast lift).
After Body Contouring Surgery
Recuperation and healing requires an overnight stay. You will be placed in compression garments that stay on for 24 hours a day except during showering or bathing. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral pain medications and an internal pain pump. You will be asked to maintain light activity for the first 3 weeks. The initial swelling and discomfort usually subsides in 10 – 14 days. All sutures are dissolvable. The final result is seen 3 – 6 months after surgery.
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