Losing weight is often a healthy choice. But substantial weight loss can leave behind loose, saggy skin that might make a person feel self-conscious.
Enter body contouring surgery, also known as skin removal surgery.
Why have body contouring surgery?
Body contouring surgery is elective. If you’re content with your appearance, you don’t need it. But if you’ve lost a lot of weight in a short period of time—as can occur after weight loss surgery—the excess skin may bother you. Body contouring surgery is a way to remove excess skin.
What areas of the body can be treated?
After substantial weight loss, you can have excess skin in almost any area. Surgeons offer a variety of procedures to reduce this excess skin, including:
- Tummy tuck
- Belt lipectomy (lower abdomen and back lift)
- Brachioplasty (arm lift)
- Face and neck lift
- Inner thigh lift
- Mastopexy (breast lift)
How does body contouring surgery work?
It depends on which area of the body you’re working on, but all body contouring surgeries require an incision to remove excess skin and sutures to close the wounds. The procedures are performed under general anesthesia, so you are asleep during surgery. If you need more than one procedure, they will likely be done in stages, over a period of years to reduce complications and allow you time to heal properly.
What are the risks?
Body contouring surgery, like all surgeries, has risks. They can include infection, blood clots, scars, and anesthesia complications. There is also a chance you may not be happy with the results. Your skin may still be loose or asymmetrical, or the results might not meet your expectations.
How much does body contouring cost?
Body contouring surgery can be expensive, and it’s commonly not covered by insurance. Costs vary widely, depending on the type of procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and your location. Make sure you understand the total cost of the procedure before you begin.
