Body contouring after significant weight loss improves the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports fat and skin, and removes excess fat and sagging skin. After weight reduction surgery or any substantial weight loss, the skin and tissues often lack elasticity and may not conform to the reduced body size. As a result, the skin, which was severely stretched, now lacks support:

• The arms become flabby,
• The breasts may flatten and point downward,
• The abdomen can extend to the sides and the lower back area, resulting in an apron-like overhang,
• The buttocks, groin, and thighs may have sagging, creating hanging pockets of skin.

The surgical intervention for body contouring after significant weight loss improves the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports fat and skin, and removes excess fat and skin sagging. The result is a more normal body appearance with smoother contours. This is essentially the final phase of the weight loss process.

Before deciding to undergo the procedure, weight loss should be stabilized.

• If you continue to lose weight, sagging will reappear.
• If the weight is rapidly regained, you will traumatize your already weakened skin, causing stretch marks and widened scars.

If you have undergone weight loss surgery, your plastic surgeon will work closely with your doctor to determine when it is appropriate to start body contouring repairs.

Source: SBCP