Ask the Experts: Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

For anyone reading this who has recently lost a substantial amount of weight, first let us say congratulations on your accomplishment. For many people in this position, the journey to achieving the body that they desire may not be quite over. This is because loose skin in areas all over the body is a very common and natural thing after significant weight loss. And unlike fat, this excess skin cannot be shed with diet, exercise, and other lifestyle adjustments. Today, our board-certified plastic surgeons wanted to address post-weight loss surgery by answering a few common questions about the incredible benefits that plastic surgery after weight loss can provide.

Question #1: How much weight do I need to lose before undergoing post-weight loss surgery?

There is no specific amount and every person’s body and weight loss journey is different. One thing we would mention is that undergoing a body contouring procedure like a tummy tuck or arm lift will not be able to address loose skin that develops after the surgery from general aging or additional weight loss. So the timing of a post-weight loss procedure is something that you need to strongly consider, but there is no specific amount of weight loss that makes someone a good candidate or not.

Question #2: Why do some people undergo both post-weight loss procedures and also liposuction?

Despite what many people believe, liposuction surgery itself is not a weight loss procedure. In fact, patients who undergo post-weight loss surgery may also choose to undergo liposuction to help remove pockets of stubborn fat that their natural weight loss and exercise simply cannot address. In these cases, liposuction is simply another tool that can complement another body contouring procedure and help provide more comprehensive and satisfying results.

Question #3: Can losing weight affect my breasts after breast augmentation surgery?

While weight loss will not have any effect on the breast implants themselves, it is possible that the breasts can be affected by significant weight loss in some cases. Some breasts naturally store a lot of fat and it is possible for weight loss to alter the breasts, specifically the shape and positioning of the breasts. However, breast lift surgery can provide an outstanding and simple solution in the case that this does occur and the patient chooses to go this direction.

There is a lot to know about plastic surgery after weight loss and we’re always happy to answer any questions our patients might have. For more information or to schedule a plastic surgery consult, please contact Atlanta Plastic Surgery at one of our Atlanta, Cumming, or Canton area locations. You can also follow along with us on Facebook for additional plastic surgery tips, news, photos, and much more.