Post-Bariatric Surgery

Congratulations! You have lost a significant amount of weight and you look great — in your clothes. You may find that despite all of that weight loss, though, your body contour is still far from ideal. Now you want to take that next step and lose the excess skin. Mild skin or fat excess may be treated appropriately by procedures such as abdominoplasty or liposuction. However, more significant excess requires a more extensive body contouring procedure called a lower body lift. Reno and Carson City residents who have undergone massive weight loss may also require other procedures such as a facelift or breast lift in order to complete their desired look.

Risks of Body Contouring

Although body lift, abdominoplasty, and other contouring techniques are regularly performed by cosmetic surgeons in Reno and elsewhere, there are risks involved with these procedures, as with all surgeries. Infection and blood clots are rare. However, if an infection does occur it can be treated with antibiotics and drainage, which will prolong your recovery. The risk for developing blood clots can be minimized by moving around or walking as soon after surgery as possible. Poor wound healing may result in a conspicuous scar that could require a second revision operation. Smokers are advised to discontinue smoking three weeks prior to surgery, as smoking increases the risk of complications and delays wound healing by altering the circulation to the skin. During your preoperative visit, Dr. McCormack will discuss possible complications that may occur.

Before Your Body Contouring Procedure:

Medical History

A full medical history is required prior to surgery. This helps to ensure that anesthesia and the stress of surgery are well tolerated. If you have significant medical problems, a consultation with other specialists may be required before surgery. You may also require specific laboratory tests. A full weight loss history is also important. This includes any prior surgeries and how long your weight has been stable. If you are continuing to lose weight it may be wise to wait until your weight stabilizes for 3-6 months before embarking on body contouring surgery to maximize your results.
Who Is Not a Candidate for Body Contouring
If you are still massively obese you are not a candidate for body contouring. This is because your contour will not improve and the surgical risks are much greater. If you have significant medical problems that put you at greater risk while under general anesthesia, then this type of surgery is not safe for you.

Physical Exam

Dr. Tiffany McCormack will perform full physical exams to determine which body contouring procedures are best for patients in and around the Reno and Carson City area. Photographs are also an essential part of the process.