A Reconstructive Procedure in the Treatment of Obesity
Losing a significant amount of weight, whether from bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, takes a lot of hard work and dedication, and keeping it off can sometimes be even more difficult. In addition, many who have lost considerable weight are still unhappy with their bodies because of the stretched, sagging skin that remains. Not only can excess skin detract from a person’s appearance and confidence, it can also hinder performance and cause pain during physical activities.
Body contouring procedures, such as tummy tuck surgery and arm lift surgery, are designed to remove this excess skin, and research indicates that these procedures serve more than just cosmetic purposes.
Improves Long-Term Weight Control
According to a study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, bariatric patients who had excess skin removed through body contouring surgery were less likely to gain significant weight back than those who didn’t. This study followed two groups of patients after undergoing gastric bypass surgery. One group of approximately 100 patients underwent gastric bypass surgery, while the second group of approximately 100 patients underwent gastric bypass surgery and body contouring surgery to remove the resulting excess skin. Each group lost an average of 100 pounds following gastric bypass surgery. However, seven years later, the group that underwent body contouring surgery only gained an average of 13 pounds, while those who did not undergo any cosmetic procedure to remove the resulting excess skin gained an average of 50 pounds. These findings suggest that body contouring should be included as a reconstructive surgery to treat obesity and its related health risks.
Improves Quality of Life
Another study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® confirms the emotional and psychological improvements associated with body contouring procedures. According to an analysis of their answers on the Obesity Psychosocial State Questionnaire prior to body contouring surgery compared to their answers about seven years later, 33 post-bariatric patients experienced a moderate to large sustained improvement in their quality of life. In addition to this study, the obvious physical benefits of increased mobility and reduced chafing as a result of removing excess skin contributes to an improved quality of life for patients.
If you are considering body contouring after significant weight loss, please call 1-888-388-1616 or fill out our online consultation form to schedule your complimentary appointment with Dr. Kattash. As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Maan Kattash has the training and experience to provide his patients with the safest, most effective procedures and looks forward to helping you attain the body you deserve.
