A dramatic weight loss can result in a distorted body shape. Sagging skin around the breasts, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, upper arms, and even the face and neck, may make you self-conscious about the body you have worked so hard to achieve. If this describes you, post weight-loss surgery in Washington DC can help restore your confidence.
Post-bariatric surgery, or any kind of body sculpting surgery after losing 100 pounds or more, is a significant decision requiring patience. The payoffs include better-fitting clothing, less chaffing, fewer infections, and improved self-esteem. A consultation with Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Troy Pittman, can clarify whether this decision is right for you.
Considerations Before Choosing Post Weight-Loss Surgery
When contemplating any type of elective surgery, it is essential to be well-informed and well-prepared beforehand. There are several points to consider before opting for a local post-bariatric surgery.
Stable Weight
After losing an extreme amount of weight, it may take 18 months or more for your weight to stabilize. You must also consider if you expect to lose even more weight. A stable weight is essential for achieving the best results from any form of post weight-loss surgery.
Reasonable Expectations
A consultation with an Dr. Pittman is crucial for determining the best means to help you reach your body target. You should maintain reasonable expectations and realize that each person’s path to satisfaction will differ, and that your ideal look is not likely to appear the day after the surgery.
Healthy Lifestyle
You should be in good health before proceeding with elective surgeries. If you smoke, try to quit at least six months before having surgery. Your future lifestyle choices, weight gain, and the natural aging process can impact the final results of any enhancement procedures.
Permanent Scarring
Most surgeries that remedy excess skin over the body will leave scars behind. Many patients view this as an acceptable side-effect if the result is a tighter, more toned body. Dr. Pittman will strategically place incisions so that scars will be as hidden and unnoticeable as possible.
Your Options for Surgery After Weight Loss
Dr. Pittman will discuss with you exactly which procedures will be needed to best achieve the results you want. Post weight-loss surgical options in Washington DC may include panniculectomy, belt lipectomy, abdominoplasty, and various other procedures.
A panniculectomy will remove the hanging flap of skin, called the pannus, from the lower abdomen below the belly button. It will not, however, firm up the abdominal area. You may want to consider an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) to accompany or replace the panniculectomy if that option better suits your needs. A tummy tuck involves removing excess skin and tightening abdominal muscles. In this process, sutures are placed in the vertically-oriented ab muscles, pulling them together to appear flatter. Any remaining excess skin below the naval will be removed.
A belt lipectomy, or lower body lift, reshapes the abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, and buttocks through an incision made around the circumference of the body. Other procedures that may be combined with the lower body lift include a tummy tuck, thigh lifts, liposuction, or buttock augmentation.
More options that can enhance your body after significant weight loss include facelifts, breast lifts or reductions, and upper arm lifts. Dr. Pittman will discuss with you the best combination of procedures for your unique body.
Complete Your Journey with a Post Weight-Loss Surgery in Washington DC
It is natural to feel a little apprehensive when trying to determine the route to achieve your best look after losing a significant amount of weight. By far, the most beneficial tool at your disposal is a consultation with an experienced Washington DC post-weight loss surgeon like Dr. Troy Pittman. Be candid and open about your expectations and listen to the risks and potential complications accompanying each form of body enhancement.
You have accomplished a substantial part of your journey with your weight loss. Schedule a visit with us at our private and fully-accredited surgical suite to complete the path to a more self-confident you.
