Plastic Surgery after Weight Loss

Dramatic Weight Loss and Plastic Surgery FAQ

Will I need plastic surgery after my weight loss surgery?

You will no doubt want to maintain the dramatic results after losing a considerable amount of weight. A post weight loss diet and exercise routine will help to maintain your new figure. You may want to consider plastic surgery if there is a fair amount of loose skin present after you have reached your maximum level of weight loss.

Plastic surgery is not an easy option. As always, seek advice from your primary care physician or your physician at Columbia St. Mary’s Bariatric Center before making a decision.

When should I consider plastic surgery after weight loss surgery?

The best candidates for plastic surgery after weight loss surgery are:

• Patients who have achieved their maximum level of weight loss
• Patients who have large amounts of excess skin with multiple loose skin rolls and folds
• Patients who wish to enhance body image, but not wanting to lose additional weight
• Patients who do not smoke

Will health insurance approve these procedures?

Plastic surgery that is required for medical reasons is typically covered by health insurance. Cosmetic plastic surgeries, which are operations solely performed to improve the patient's appearance, are typically not covered.

You will have a better idea of the full cost of your plastic surgery procedure after your initial consultation with a plastic surgeon and your individual needs have been assessed. Sometimes, follow-up procedures are required after a plastic surgery procedure. The principal cost of plastic surgery is comprised of a surgeon’s fee, anesthesiologist’s fee, operation room fee and hospital costs.

What are the most common procedures for post weight loss surgery patients?

• Arm lift (brachioplasty)
• Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
• Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty)
• Belt lipectomy (removal of tissue around the waistline)
• Face lift/neck lift
• Full body lift (circumferential panniculectomy)
• Inner thigh lift
• Liposuction
• Mastopexy (breast lift)