Post-weight loss body contouring

When is post-weight loss correction warranted?

After extensive weight loss the skin becomes disturbingly stretched and wrinkled. This change can not only cause a sense of aesthetic frustration but can also render sports activities uncomfortable and make fashionable dressing very difficult. Correction is possible by removing excess skin and adipose tissue.

What happens at the first consultation?

Our plastic surgeon will examine you during a personal consultation and show you, based on their references, what the expected best outcome will be if you decide to have surgery. They will inform you about the necessary alterations and surgical interventions and show you the location of the incisions.

Preparing for surgery

As with all surgeries, you will need to undergo a full examination, including lab tests and other tests (e.g., ECG, x-ray, abdominal ultrasound) if necessary, before post-weight loss body contouring. In our Private Hospital, we perform all the necessary tests at the same time, to save you time and to make your preparation for surgery more convenient. You will also receive some lifestyle tips to help you prepare for post-weight loss surgery and to speed up your recovery. These include quitting smoking, at least temporarily, as nicotine slows the healing process, consuming adequate amounts of fluids, vitamins and trace elements (vitamin C, selenium, zinc), and avoiding the use of aspirin, ginkgo biloba and other natural remedies, because these affect blood clotting.

What happens during surgery?

Post-weight loss body contouring is one of the combined plastic surgeries, which is performed under anesthesia in all cases. A surgery may include breast, belly, possibly arm and thigh surgery, and liposuction, based on an individual recommendation from a plastic surgeon. In women, a new breast shape is usually created with a breast lift and, if necessary, by inserting an implant. For breast surgery, the plastic surgeon makes three incisions, first around the areola, then vertically down, and finally along the fold beneath the breast. In men, when the chest is contoured, the plastic surgeon removes excess fat and skin tissue from the chest via an incision around the areola and towards the armpits. If necessary, the arms and thighs are also contoured. The surgical technique used here is the same as the procedures detailed for thigh and arm plastic surgery. Postoperative suction drains are inserted to drain away secretions. The average duration of the operation is 4-6 hours, during which a complete body contouring takes place.

Recovery, regeneration

After post-weight loss body contouring you will spend one or two nights, as required, in our Private Hospital, where you can relax in a pleasant and comfortable environment. The surgical site should not be exposed to water for 1 week. The natural pain associated with the surgery, the numbness, swelling and bruising of the skin, will cease after three weeks. You must wear a special compression garment, which we will provide for you, for 8 weeks after surgery. During the first two weeks of recovery, you should avoid all strenuous physical work before gradually resuming your previous lifestyle. After three weeks, light exercise can be taken. Avoid sunbathing and using the solarium and sauna for two months. The visible scars heal in approximately 6 months, while those under the skin heal within approximately 2 years. For a follow-up examination our plastic surgeon will call you back at specified intervals. Although we try to filter out all risk factors during preoperative post-weight loss body contouring examinations, unforeseen complications may occur. At the first consultation, your plastic surgeon will inform you about these and how to avoid them.