Why consider Body Contouring?
Patients who have experienced significant weight loss that has resulted in excess sagging skin may consider body contouring, which reduces excess fat and skin in multiple areas of the body. This surgery can be a rewarding procedure following dramatic weight loss, providing a more proportionate appearance and smoother contours.
How it's done
The surgery will be customized to the individual patient's needs and is often performed in stages. Additionally, the incision length and patterns will depend on the amount and location of the excess skin to be removed. A general overview:
- Lower body - incisions to correct sagging buttocks, abdomen, waist, hips and outer thighs will vary, but may include a circumferential incision around the belly and additional incisions that may resemble a bikini bottom pattern.
- Breasts - incisions to correct sagging breasts may include one or a combination in a circular pattern around the areola, vertically to the breast crease and horizontally along the breast crease. An implant may be recommended.
- Upper arms - incisions to correct sagging skin begin at the armpit and extend along the inside the upper arm to the elbow.
Side Effects & Risks
The risks associated with this surgery include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulations, delayed or poor wound healing, skin loss, blood clots, excessive or widened scars, numbness and other changes in skin sensation and irregular contours or scars. There are always risks associated with the anesthesia.
Healing Process
Following surgery, swelling and discomfort are common and can be managed with pain medication. Patients will be instructed to engage in light walking as soon as possible to minimize the potential for blood clots. Patients may be directed to avoid bending, straining or lifting for several days to weeks. Initial wound healing is approximately 7 to 14 days, at which time any sutures will be removed. Healing will then continue for several weeks. Any numbness should resolve over time.
Scheduling Your Body Contouring Consultation
Please call Profiles Cosmetic Surgery in Tucson at (520) 888-4540 for more information on body contouring after weight loss or to schedule a consultation.
Patient results may vary