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Abdominoplasty After Weight Loss at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington

While weight loss is an amazing achievement that one should feel proud of, it can come with some unpleasant side effects. One of them is the sagging skin that’s left behind. While we may feel excited about showing off our new physiques, loose, hanging skin can make us apprehensive about revealing ourselves.

Thankfully, there are now surgical procedures that can address this accumulation of excess skin in the abdominal region after weight loss. These treatments can completely redefine the midsection by tightening the underlying muscles.

What is post weight loss surgery?

Whether the resulsat of a healthy diet and exercise or bariatric surgery, extensive weight loss often leaves patients with excess skin. While patients are happy with their new, stable weight, the presence of excess skin can often make them feel less than ideal. After being overexpanded by weight gain, excess skin has lower elasticity, making it more prone to sagging. Even for younger patients, the skin does not always tighten up the way they expect it to.

A tummy tuck is an effective means of addressing these issues in the midsection. The procedure involves making an incision across the public area, keeping it hidden from vision when wearing clothes. The belly button stays intact in its natural position.

Who is a candidate for post-weight loss surgery?

Good candidates for post weight loss surgery in Washington, DC are those who:

  • Are at a stable weight
  • Do not smoke
  • Are in good mental and physical health
  • Do not have medical conditions that can cause complications during surgery and the healing process

Prior to the treatment, the patient’s skin laxity, muscle tone, fat deposits, and existing contours are thoroughly assessed.

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  • What are the benefits of post weight loss surgery?

    It is difficult for patients who were once obese to reverse the effects of skin sagging and restore firmness to the stomach without employing tightening techniques to the fascia around the abdominal wall. These patients are ideal candidates for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).

    Some other benefits include:

    • A stronger core
    • A lower chance of developing certain medical conditions
    • A lower likelihood of hernias
    • Better control over bodily functions
    • Stress urinary incontinence is much less likely to occur

  • The consultation process

    The consultation process for abdominoplasty is similar to most other surgical procedures. It can be broken down into the following steps:

    • The patient’s overall health status and health history are thoroughly assessed to check for risk factors
    • Photographs are taken to have references for the results
    • All treatment options are explained to the patient in careful detail
    • A course of treatment is recommended
    • The outcomes and potential risks of the operation are all discussed with the patient

  • What is the procedure like?

    The procedure is carried out either in our accredited outpatient center or in a hospital, depending on the needs of the patient. Some patients choose to undergo other procedures at the same time for a more dramatic transformation. The first step involves marking all of the incision sites to ensure that the correct areas are treated to address the patient’s concerns. Depending on the extent of treatment, patients are given either local anesthesia in the treatment areas or an IV infusion to keep them comfortable throughout the procedure.

    Following the procedure, drains are placed under the patient’s skin to ensure proper drainage of the treated areas. In some cases, may need to be fitted with a urinary catheter overnight.

  • What happens following the procedure?

    Following post weight loss surgery in Washington, DC, treatment areas are wrapped in an abdominal compression garment. The bandages and drains are then removed at the first appointment following the operation. The compression garment must stay on for a month following the operation.

    The recovery period following a tummy tuck procedure can last anywhere from three to six weeks, depending on the extent of the treatment. It is vital that patients stay bent at the waist for at least 5 days. They must also refrain from driving for at least two weeks.

    While no two patients are the same, patients are generally able to get back to their normal routines by the 6-week mark. They can resume exercise and other vigorous activity around 8 to 10 weeks. It is vital that patients wear the compression garment for the first two months once they begin exercising.

How Much Does Post Weight Loss Surgery Cost?

The costs of this procedure will vary depending on what state it is performed in, the fees of medical supplies and anesthesia, and surgeon fees. A tummy tuck can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000.

Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss FAQ's

What can be done to reduce the appearance of scars?

Patients can begin massaging their scars about three to four weeks after the surgery. While they initially appear red and raised, they gradually flatten and fade away over time. If any touch-ups are needed, they are usually carried out about nine to twelve months after the surgery.

Are there any risks that come with post weight loss surgery?

While risks are relatively uncommon, they can occur. Some of these risks include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Asymmetrical results
  • Separation of wounds
  • Loss of the umbilicus
  • Skin loss
  • Numbness or swelling for a prolonged amount of time
  • Various forms of scarring
  • Potential need for a revision surgery down the line
  • Accumulation of fluid under the skin, which requires drainage

Why choose the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington for Post Weight Loss Surgery?

The Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington provides the D.C. Metropolitan area with some of the most innovative surgical procedures available today. With techniques that are based in the latest science, their facility has become renowned as one of the east coast’s best destinations for cosmetic care. The board-certified team at PSIW are leaders in the field of cosmetology, always striving for excellence and customer satisfaction. Beyond that, they prioritize respect and open communication with all of their patients. These values have helped them garner long-lasting relationships with their patients.

Post Weight Loss Surgery Washington DC

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