Post Weight Loss Surgery

Post Weight Loss Surgery Newcastle

Managing Excess Skin and Reduced Skin Tone Following Weight Loss

Surgical approaches may include removal of excess fat and skin, implants, or lift procedures, depending on individual anatomy.

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 have potential changes that can be done with surgery.
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?

Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Significant weight loss, whether achieved through lifestyle changes or bariatric surgery, can change the body’s proportions. In some cases, the skin and soft tissues may not reduce in the same way as body weight, and areas of tissue may remain. Post-weight loss surgery refers to a range of procedures that may be considered to address these changes.

What is Post-Weight Loss Surgery?

Post-weight loss surgery involves procedures that remove or reposition skin and tissue following substantial weight reduction. These may focus on areas such as:

  • Abdomen and waist (abdominoplasty)
  • Upper arms (brachioplasty)
  • Thighs (thigh lift)
  • Chest or breasts (male chest reduction or breast lift/mastopexy)
  • Back (back lift)

Each procedure is planned according to the individual’s needs and overall health.

Who Might Consider This Surgery?

A person may consider post-weight loss surgery if they:

  • Have changes in skin or tissue distribution after weight loss
  • Experience discomfort or difficulty with clothing fit due to these changes
  • Have maintained a stable weight for at least 6–12 months
  • Are in good general health and understand the potential recovery process and risks

What to Expect During the Consultation

Your consultation with Dr Mistry will include:

  • A review of medical history and weight loss background
  • An examination to assess skin and tissue distribution, and overall health
  • Discussion of potential surgical options, risks, benefits, and alternatives
  • Development of a treatment plan that is specific to the individual

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery will vary depending on the procedure performed. In general:

  • Compression garments may be recommended during the recovery period
  • Physical activity may need to be limited in the initial stages of healing
  • Time away from work will depend on the nature of the procedure and occupation
  • Scarring will occur with any surgery; incisions are placed where possible to be less visible

Risks and Complications of Post-Weight-Loss Surgery

All surgical procedures carry risks. For post–weight-loss surgery, these can include:

  • Infection or bleeding after surgery, which may require further treatment
  • Scarring, which may be more prominent in some individuals
  • Delayed wound healing, particularly in areas under tension or following extensive surgery
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma) under the skin, which may need to be drained
  • Changes in skin sensation, such as numbness or tingling, which may be temporary or permanent
  • Asymmetry or contour irregularities
  • Anaesthesia-related risks
  • Need for revisional surgery to address specific concerns or outcomes

Your individual risk profile will be discussed during your consultation, along with strategies to help reduce complications.

If you are looking at your cosmetic surgery options post weight loss, be sure to get in touch with us by calling ​​02 40627888 or contacting us by using the form below!

Dr Mistry Explains: Body Lifting

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for post weight loss plastic surgery?

Determining candidacy for body lifting 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 could I get 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.

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 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, 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, including maintaining a healthy lifestyle for long-term well-being.

What are the different body lift procedures?

Body lift procedures, encompassing various surgical techniques, by removing excess skin and fat. 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.

Will I have scars?

Yes, it’s likely that you will have scars after undergoing post-weight loss surgery, 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. 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. 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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