Following weight reduction surgery, or any substantial amount of weight loss, the skin and tissues often lack elasticity and cannot conform to the reduced body size. As a result, skin that has been severely stretched now is unsupported:
- Upper arms may sag and appear loose and full
- Breasts may flatten and hang with nipples pointed downward
- Abdominal area may extend around the sides and into the lower back area, resulting in a an apron-like overhang
- Buttocks, groin and thighs can sag and cause hanging pockets of skin
Surgical body contouring following major weight loss improves the shape and tone of your underlying tissue that supports fat and skin, and removes excess sagging fat and skin. The result is a more normal appearance to the body with smoother contours. This is, in essence, the final phase of your total weight loss experience. Surgeries that can be considered in body contouring are an arm lift, abdominoplasty, panniculectomy, thigh lift, breast lift, or body lift, among others.
At your initial consultation, Dr. Hawner will have an in depth discussion with you to review your medical history and listen to your plastic surgery desires and goals. He will also conduct a thorough examination to determine amount of excess skin in the problem areas. By the end of your consultation, Dr. Hawner will have developed a plan tailored for your specific body requirements and your desired goals for the outcome.
To learn more about these procedures, visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website at http://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures.html.
