Timing Body Contouring After Weight Loss

Losing a massive amount of weight is a tremendous goal by itself. But for many individuals, reaching their ideal weight is just the first step towards restoring their confidence and quality of life as they are left with excess skin and tissue that hang off the body and obscure their thinner, smaller post-weight-loss shape.

If you find yourself in this position, body contouring may be right for you. Procedures like tummy tuck, body lift, arm lift and thigh lift remove excess, stretched out skin and tighten the remaining skin and tissues for a flatter, firmer and more attractive contour.

The timing of your body contouring procedure plays a critical role in the success of your results. Dr. Carlos Chacon of Divino Plastic Surgery explains the factors you need to consider when planning your procedure.

Your Weight Must Be Stable

Your weight must be stable before undergoing body contouring. This is important because weight fluctuations can affect the cosmetic results of your procedure, not to mention put you at risk of a complication. Dr. Chacon recommends that you postpone body contouring until you have reached a healthy weight and maintained it for several months (most general doctors recommend between three and six months).

You Must Be In Good Overall Health

You must get a clean bill of health from your primary doctor before undergoing body contouring. This means being free of health conditions (e.g., heart disease and diabetes) that can increase the possibility of a complication, and risk factors such as smoking that can impair your ability to heal. If you underwent bariatric surgery, you must wait to have plastic surgery until you are fully healed from your first operation.

You Must Be Able to Take Time Off to Recover

All surgical body contouring procedures require downtime during which normal activities like work and exercise will be off limits. This can range from several days to weeks depending on the specific procedure and extent of surgery. If you cannot commit to the recovery period, it is best that you postpone body contouring.

To learn more about body contouring after massive weight loss, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Chacon. Contact Divino Plastic Surgery by calling (858) 633-7546 today.