Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss in NYC

Patients who have experienced dramatic weight loss and stabilized their body mass may still be distressed by the cosmetic issues that remain afterward. One common consequence is the stretched and inelastic skin. It might be unsightly and cause painful chafing, rashes, and infections. Fortunately, plastic surgery can reduce the remaining skin folds and fat pockets. It helps patients complete their transformation by recontouring their face, neck, upper arms, breasts, abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. Our triple board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sabry, can create an attractive figure that enhances confidence and body image.

Preparation for Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

At the initial consultation, Dr. Sabry reviews the patient’s complete medical history and performs a physical exam to determine whether the person is eligible for surgical or less invasive procedures. He evaluates their face, neck, abdomen, and lower body, the quality of their skin, the location of any existing scars, and the amount of excess skin and fat. 
Dr. Sabry also asks if the patient has established a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and a steady exercise regimen following their post-bariatric surgery or weight loss program. He photographs the body for a before-and-after comparison, takes detailed measurements, and records the body mass. The doctor discusses the patient’s motivations, possible risks and complications, and realistic expectations. After that, Dr. Sabry creates a specific treatment plan. Patients who smoke will be asked to quit nicotine consumption for at least 4 weeks before their procedure.

As we approach the surgery date, the patient has a comprehensive pre-operative visit in our office. A complete list of instructions is reviewed, and any remaining questions are answered. The patient is asked to avoid anything with a blood-thinning effect (aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, etc.) for two weeks before surgery and minimize alcohol intake. Blood work and other essential tests are ordered.

Body Contouring Procedures After Weight Loss

Post-bariatric plastic surgery includes reconstructive and cosmetic techniques to tighten, lift, and remove excess skin in the abdomen, back, face, neck, breasts, arms, buttocks, and thighs for a more attractive and youthful appearance. These treatments may be combined for a total or partial correction. Body contouring surgery can address various areas and be performed in stages. Here are the most common procedures:

Panniculectomy

Panniculectomy removes hanging skin and fat in the lower abdomen, known as the panniculus (apron), that remains after major weight loss. This tissue is eliminated, making the belly look youthful and fit. Panniculectomy does not involve muscle tightening.

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, removes excess fat and skin in the midsection while tightening the belly muscles (rectus abdominis). This helps to flatten and tone the stomach area after weight loss. An abdominoplasty may be combined with other body contouring procedures.

Belt Lipectomy (Lower Body Lift)

A belt lipectomy, also called a lower body lift, reshapes the lower torso, including the belly, hips, outer thighs, and buttocks, in one procedure. Excess skin and fat deposits are removed, the underlying tissue is tightened, and the remaining skin is draped for a smoother contour. This operation can refine the patient’s figure after massive weight loss.

Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Arm lift surgery, known as brachioplasty, removes loose skin that causes the upper arms to have a batwing shape. Depending on the level of sagging in the area, it may involve a longer incision from the elbow to the chest or a small one in the armpit. This surgery helps tone and shape the upper arms.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

Breast lift surgery, also known as a mastopexy, raises the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new contours. It can also reposition and reduce the size of the areolas. Mastopexy is a popular post-weight-loss plastic surgery.

Buttock Lift

A buttock lift removes excess skin and fat from the backside while tightening the underlying tissue. This surgery can reshape and lift sagging buttocks by creating a perkier, rounder contour. It addresses loose tissues after weight loss and may enhance the backside through fat transfer.

Thigh Lift

This procedure eliminates excess skin and cellulite from the thighs. Dr. Sabry can perform an inner, outer, or spiral thigh lift to target specific areas. By removing unwanted tissues, the surgery creates slimmer and more toned leg contours.

Liposuction

Liposuction is a body sculpting treatment that uses suction to remove stubborn pockets of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise. Typical areas include the hips, thighs, abdomen, arms, neck, and face. The procedure may involve ultrasound and power-assisted devices to preserve the surrounding tissues and make recovery easier.

Facelift

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, improves visible signs of facial aging, such as wrinkling and sagging. It removes excess skin, tightens underlying tissues, and reshapes and contours the face for a youthful appearance. This procedure targets the mid and lower face.

Neck Lift

Neck lift surgery eliminates sagging skin and wrinkles along the neck. Excess tissue is removed, and the platysma muscle is tightened to create a smoother, more defined jawline and neck contour. A neck lift is often paired with a facelift.

Dr. Sabry will help you select the most suitable plastic surgery procedures. In many cases, the best and safest approach is to stage them at intervals. Dr. Sabry will create a comprehensive treatment plan and decide what should be done first to address your priorities and achieve the best results.

Recovery After Body Contouring Surgery

Recovery from post-weight-loss surgery will depend on the type and extent of procedures you choose to undergo. Complete healing after lower and upper body lift may take up to six months. Patients usually experience swelling, bruising, and numbness in certain areas for several weeks. Any discomfort can be managed with pain medication. The symptoms gradually improve and disappear completely after several months.

Scarring from most surgical procedures is inevitable. However, Dr. Sabry will minimize it by placing incisions where scars can be easily hidden. Their appearance will naturally fade with time. Compression garments and scar reduction treatments will be recommended.

Once the procedures are selected, you will receive more detailed recovery information. Our team will see you during post-operative visits to remove sutures, check incisions, and monitor healing. We will answer any questions about your recovery and overall well-being.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Post-Weight-Loss Body Contouring?

Benefits of Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

Improved Body Contour

Plastic surgery can help reshape the body by removing excess skin left behind after significant weight loss. Procedures like tummy tucks, breast lifts, and liposuction contour the figure by tightening loose tissues. They can create a smoother, more youthful silhouette.

Enhanced Confidence

Losing a substantial amount of weight is an impressive accomplishment. However, the excess skin left behind can negatively impact self-image and self-esteem. Plastic surgery provides a solution by removing loose tissue and creating a refined figure. Feeling more comfortable and confident in one’s body boosts self-confidence.

Better Fit for Clothing

Hanging skin can make finding clothing difficult. After plastic surgery, the improved figure allows clothing to fit better and look more flattering. Patients often feel more comfortable and attractive with their refreshed appearance.

Reduced Skin Irritation

Losing a significant amount of weight typically leaves behind sagging folds of excess skin that can chafe and rub together. This may cause skin irritation, redness, and rashes. Plastic surgery removes this loose tissue, reducing friction and discomfort.

Cost of Post-Bariatric Plastic Surgery in NYC

The cost of plastic surgery after weight loss in NYC ranges from $6,000 to $30,000, depending on the specific procedures required and their complexity. Patients may undergo multiple operations, such as tummy tucks, arm lifts, breast lifts, and liposuction. The final cost is influenced by the surgeon’s expertise, facility fees, anesthesia expenses, and the number of treated areas. During the initial consultation with Dr. Sabry, patients can receive accurate price quotes and assistance with insurance questions.

Insurance

Post-bariatric body contouring procedures may be covered by insurance when deemed medically necessary. Companies typically require documentation of health issues related to excess skin, such as chronic rashes, infections, or functional impairment that affects daily activities. Most insurance providers expect specific criteria to be met, including maintaining a stable weight for at least 6 months, a BMI under 35, and evidence of skin conditions or functional problems. Additionally, we must provide records of the patient’s weight loss journey, including bariatric surgery documentation and proof that conservative treatments for skin-related issues have been unsuccessful. We can simplify this process by submitting claims on your behalf.

Our practice operates as an out-of-network provider for most commercial insurance plans. Therefore, many patients can receive coverage for their body contouring procedures. We work closely with each individual to obtain pre-authorization and provide detailed documentation to support insurance claims. Our experienced staff will help you understand your benefits and maximize your coverage. Contact us today to learn all the details!

What Makes Us Different From Others?

Our center is a premier destination for post-weight-loss corrections due to the exceptional expertise of Dr. M. Zakir Sabry, who holds triple board certifications in plastic surgery, otolaryngology, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. This comprehensive background enables a unique understanding of aesthetic and functional body contouring after significant weight loss. Dr. Sabry’s extensive training, including specialized fellowships in plastic surgery, combined with his consistent recognition as a “Top Doctor” since 2005, ensures that patients receive sophisticated care using cutting-edge techniques. Our approach focuses on achieving excellent results while minimizing recovery time.

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