One of the hardest and most fulfilling body journeys anyone can go through is extreme weight loss. Whether weight gain was due to genetics, pregnancy, health conditions or lifestyle, losing excess weight is difficult, time-consuming and often expensive. But for those who are able to shed the excess weight, the result is typically improved confidence and self-esteem.
After losing an extreme amount of weight, patients are often left with excess skin that was stretched out and unable to retract back to its original position after weight loss. Plastic surgery can address this excess skin and any other body concerns that come along with weight loss. Below, we go over the most common plastic surgery procedures for extreme weight loss patients:
1. Tummy Tuck
Typically the first priority for weight loss patients is to get rid of excess skin around the abdomen and stomach area. A tummy tuck removes excess skin and tissue from the midsection and tightens the abdominal wall, creating a flat, washboard tummy. Often times, the abdominoplasty is done simultaneously with liposuction, which removes excess fat on the trunk and thighs outside of the abdomen.
2. Breast Lift
Another common body concern caused by excess weight loss is drooping and sagging of the breasts. A breast lift can help erase those concerns by removing excess breast tissue and reshaping the breasts to a lifted, perky position. Some patients may also benefit from an implant along with a breast lift if extra fullness is needed.
3. Arms and Thighs
Arm and leg lifts, called brachioplasty and thighplasty, are helpful procedures for eliminating excess skin on the arms and thighs. A common result of extreme weight loss, excess skin in the arms and thighs can be a source of discomfort. Arm and leg lifts eliminate excess skin and tissue in the area and discreetly place an incision on the inside of the arm or leg to reveal a slimmer physique. Both surgeries allow the patients to feel more comfortable in their skin and in more revealing clothing.
4. Facial Procedures
Sometimes, extreme weight loss can affect the face as well. Previous facial fullness can be replaced with hollow areas and sagging skin. For these types of issues, there are various treatment options, both invasive and noninvasive. For minor hollowed out areas, injectables can provide a temporary but long-lasting boost. For more intense sagging and aging, a face lift or brow lift can help create the seamless look you are looking for.
In Conclusion
There are many plastic surgery options for extreme weight loss patients to achieve the confidence and aesthetic they have always wanted. One major concern faced by weight loss patients is excess skin that is unable to retract back to its original position after weight loss. Procedures like the tummy tuck, breast lift, arm and thigh lift can help remove excess skin and tissue, revealing a slim and toned physique. Talk to your plastic surgeon to see what plastic surgery procedure(s) they recommend for your unique body goals.