Post Weight Loss Surgery

Post Weight Loss Surgery Newcastle

Massive weight loss can often be associated with an excess of skin, and loss of skin tone.

Surgical methods range from removal of fat and/or excess skin to surgical implants and lifts to change skin tone and increase definition.

Post Weight Loss Surgery at a Glance

Procedure Duration: Varies depending on the number of areas addressed.
Ideal Candidates: Individuals who have undergone significant weight loss and are left with excess skin and tissue.
Recovery Time: 2-4 weeks initial recovery, full recovery 6-8 weeks.
Medicare Item Number: May be covered if medically necessary (e.g., removal of excess skin causing rashes or infections).
Cosmetic or Reconstructive: Both
Prices (Starting at): Discussed at Consultation

Note: Prices include Surgeon fee Garments (2); Initial post-operative appointments for the first 6 weeks following surgery; Hospital fee is additional; Anaesthetic fee is additional; (Procedures that are deemed cosmetic will incur additional charges for GST)

Is post weight loss surgery right for you?

For most patients, the significant weight loss can leave the skin loose, sometimes with excess folds. In these cases, Dr Mistry is able to perform a variety of body contouring procedures for patients to restore skin tone and shape. 

When it comes to excess skin, however, plastic surgery may not always be necessary in all areas. In some cases, a person may only have a small amount of excess skin that can be improved through other methods, such as strength training. 

Nonetheless, if a person has a significant amount of excess skin, particularly in areas with stretch marks, then surgery may be the only effective method for removing and tightening the skin.

In this scenario, booking a consultation with Dr Mistry is the best move. As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, he will work with you to evaluate the best course of action for addressing any excess skin concerns you might have.

Why cosmetic surgery may be needed after extreme weight loss

Achieving significant weight loss is an accomplishment that should be celebrated, regardless of the method used to achieve it. Whether through diet and exercise or with the assistance of bariatric surgery, the journey to a successful outcome can be extremely challenging. It requires discipline, hard work, and a commitment to living a healthier lifestyle.

If you have lost weight, then we would like to say congratulations! Any individual who has achieved their weight loss goals should be proud of themselves for it, and it’s important to acknowledge.

Celebrating success in weight loss is important not only for the individual but also for their support system, such as family and friends, who have likely played a role in their journey. Encouragement and recognition of the success achieved thus far should be celebrated as a significant accomplishment and a step towards a healthier life.

Ultimately, regardless of the method used to achieve weight loss, the journey does not end with the loss of weight. At this stage, it may be necessary to address excess skin or other cosmetic concerns.

Often, the loss of weight is accompanied by a loss of skin tone and an excess of skin. The amount of excess skin after weight loss will depend on the degree of skin retraction during the process. In some cases, skin retraction is sufficient, resulting in little need for corrective surgery. 

It is essential to understand that achieving body contouring after massive weight loss is not a quick fix, even with surgery. The physical and psychological benefits of any course of action will take time.

Just as it takes several months to achieve the desired weight, it can take a similar period to remove all the excess skin, particularly if it is in multiple areas.

If you are looking at your cosmetic surgery options post weight loss, be sure to get in touch with us by calling ​​02 4002 4198 or contacting us by using the form below!

Dr Mistry Explains: Body Contouring

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for post weight loss plastic surgery?

Determining candidacy for body contouring surgery after weight loss in Newcastle is a complex process that requires careful consideration from both the patient and the plastic surgeon.

Technical factors aside, it is essential that you can meet certain requirements before undergoing any form of cosmetic surgery after weight loss. These requirements include:

– Achieving and maintaining the goal weight for at least 3 to 6 months prior to surgery.

– Being in good overall health with no major medical issues.

– Obtaining clearance from a GP to undergo a large cosmetic surgery operation.

– Being a non-smoker, or the cessation of smoking for at least 12 weeks before and after surgery (including nicotine of any kind, and e-cigarettes or vapes).

– Maintaining a healthy diet and good nutrition, with particular attention paid to protein levels, iron, B12, and folate.

– This will optimise post-operative wound healing.

– Having a strong support system in place throughout the post surgery recovery process.

Dr Mistry and his team can assist patients in meeting these requirements, and optimising their health to ensure that the surgery and recovery process go as smoothly as possible.

What cosmetic surgery procedures would I need after massive weight loss?

The exact plastic surgery procedures you may require, if any, will be determined in a consultation with Dr Yezdi Mistry as the true answer is unique for every patient.

The amount or type of procedures required will depend on a variety of factors, for example your body and skin’s appearance after weight loss, the amount of weight you have lost, holding a stable weight, and your general lifestyle.

In any case, there are a variety of surgical procedures which may be considered for you in various areas of the body. These include arm lifts (brachioplasty), breast reductions, breast lift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), mummy makeover, excess skin removal surgery, liposuction and thigh lifts in addition to other body contouring procedures.

If you require multiple procedures, the operations may be split into different stages over a longer period of time, to allow the body to heal from each procedure performed.

Does Medicare cover plastic surgery after weight loss?

Most cosmetic surgeries are not covered under Medicare, though there are a few exceptions.

In some cases where you require an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery, you may be eligible for Medicare item number 30177, which is related to skin removal after massive weight loss. Additionally, you may be eligible under Medicare item number 30175 if you are suffering from separated tummy muscles after pregnancy. Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any benefits from Medicare if it is purely for cosmetic reasons.

Nonetheless, it is likely that Medicare will not cover your entire surgical fee. It is important to check with your surgeon regarding any fees you may be liable for.

What is recovery like after post-weight loss surgery?

Recovery after post-weight loss surgery, or body contouring surgery, varies based on the extent of the procedures performed but generally involves several weeks to months of healing. Patients can expect post-operative pain and discomfort, with prescribed pain medications to manage it, as well as swelling and bruising that may take time to diminish. Activities are often restricted during the initial recovery period, and proper wound care and follow-up appointments are crucial for minimising scarring and monitoring healing progress. Patients should also maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and follow dietary recommendations. Emotional adjustments may occur, and support from loved ones or mental health professionals can be valuable during this period. Following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions is essential for optimal recovery and achieving desired results, including maintaining a healthy lifestyle for long-term well-being.

What are the different body lift procedures?

Body lift procedures, encompassing various surgical techniques, aim to enhance body contours by removing excess skin and fat, typically after significant weight loss. These include the lower body lift (belt lipectomy) addressing the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs; abdominoplasty focusing on the abdominal area; thigh lifts for the thighs; arm lifts for the upper arms; buttock lifts for the buttocks; and breast lifts for breast rejuvenation. Depending on individual needs and preferences, patients may undergo a combination of these procedures or opt for a full body lift, which targets multiple areas simultaneously. Consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine the most suitable body lift procedures to achieve desired results and improve overall body aesthetics while minimising scarring and recovery time.

Will I have scars?

Yes, it’s likely that you will have scars after undergoing post-weight loss surgery or body contouring procedures, as scarring is a natural part of the healing process following surgery. The visibility and extent of scars can vary depending on the type of procedure, surgical techniques, individual skin characteristics, and adherence to post-operative scar care instructions. Plastic surgeons aim to minimise scarring by employing strategic incision placement and suturing methods. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable, and topical treatments may be recommended to further manage their appearance. While scarring is common, many individuals find that the improvements in body contour and self-confidence achieved through these procedures outweigh the presence of scars. Discussing scarring expectations and care with your surgeon before the surgery is essential.

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Please Note: Information provided on Dr Mistry’s website is provided as a basic guide, it does not constitute a diagnosis and should not be taken as medical advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.

A Newcastle Surgeon That Cares

“I care because it’s my job as a surgeon, as a plastic surgeon, to do the appropriate thing and to give you a good outcome. I want to leave knowing that I can tell a patient, hand on heart, that I did the very best I could and that I looked after them, so when I see them post op later that day or the next morning, that they feel they were in good hands.”

– Dr Yezdi Mistry

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