Post-Bariatric Body Contouring

close up photo of female body

Body contouring procedures are some of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures available, and aim to sculpt the body into a slimmer and more defined shape by removing excess fat and skin that have been otherwise unresponsive to traditional diet and exercise. These procedures target problem areas such as the stomach, thighs, arms, neck and more, and let patients enjoy effective and permanent results.

Body contouring procedures are ideal for patients who are close to their ideal weight, but have one or more problem areas that do not respond to other weight loss methods. They are also commonly performed on patients after bariatric surgery, to help reduce excess fat and skin, and restore tightness and elasticity to the skin. It is important for patients of these procedures to be dedicated to maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle in order to preserve the results of these procedures.

Dr. Glasberg performs several different body contouring procedures that help patients achieve the results they desire. He meets with patients for a detailed consultation before each and every procedure, to make sure both patient and doctor agree on the goals of the procedure. Some of the body contouring procedures performed by Dr. Glasberg include:

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure performed to flatten and shape the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening muscles. Tummy tucks are effective for patients with pockets of fat or loose skin that haven’t responded well to diet and exercise, and may also be useful for women with stretched skin and muscles from pregnancy.

The tummy tuck procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes two to five hours to complete. Dr. Glasberg will make two incisions, one from hipbone to hipbone close to the pubic area, and the other around the navel to loosen the surrounding skin. The skin is then separated from the abdominal muscles, which are pulled together and stitched into place for a firmer abdomen and narrower waist. Excess skin is removed from the area and the navel is reattached into a natural position before the incision is closed with sutures.

After a tummy tuck, patients will wear compression garments to help the area heal. A temporary tube may be inserted under the skin to drain excess fluid from the area. Recovery from this procedure can take from two weeks to a few months, depending on the patient’s individual case. Although this procedure will leave a scar across the abdomen, it is placed low enough for even a bikini to conceal.

Liposuction

Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that removes localized areas of fat from the body through a small thin tube called a cannula. The fat from the targeted area is suctioned from the body through this tube to help patients achieve a slim and balanced appearance. Liposuction is most commonly performed on the thighs, abdomen, arms, back, hips and buttocks, and can also be combined with other procedures such as a facelift or tummy tuck to achieve maximum results.

During the liposuction procedure, Dr. Glasberg will inject a mixture of local anesthetic and saline solution to expand and firm the fat, making it easier to remove. The cannula is then inserted through a tiny incision to suction out the fat, with no stitches need to close the area. Patients may experience mild swelling, bruising and discomfort after the liposuction procedure, but can return to work and other normal activities as soon as they feel comfortable doing so.

Thigh Lift

A thigh lift is performed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper legs for patients with loose, inelastic skin after extreme weight loss. This procedure is usually performed on both legs and can involve the inner or outer thigh, depending on which area of the thigh the patient wishes to improve. A thigh lift is often combined with other procedures such as a buttock lift or liposuction.

During a thigh lift procedure, an incision will be made in the inner thigh where the leg meets the groin (medial thigh lift) or from the groin around to the back of the body (lateral thigh lift). Dr. Glasberg will remove and reshape the underlying tissue and skin is redraped over the area for a more flattering appearance. The incisions are then closed with sutures. After the thigh lift procedure, patients can usually return to work and other normal activities within one to two weeks.

Arm Lift

Also known as brachioplasty, an arm lift removes loose, hanging skin from the upper arms that is often caused by aging or significant weight loss. An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia and involves zigzag incisions across the skin of the upper arm to remove the excess fat and skin. The remaining skin is then redraped to create a slimmer, firmer appearance. The incisions are made in a way that will promote better healing and be easily concealed after surgery.

After an arm lift, patients are advised to keep their arms elevated and wear a compression garment to help facilitate the healing process. Patients can usually return to work after a week or two, but should avoid physical activity for three or four weeks.

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