Losing a significant amount of weight is a remarkable achievement, and hard work deserves celebration! At the Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis, we know that the weight loss journey does not stop after a target weight has been met. In fact, the target weight can often come with its own challenges. 

Despite the incredible health benefits of their weight loss, many individuals find themselves struggling with feelings of insecurity and dissatisfaction with their appearance, the way clothes fit, and the way their skin hangs on their bodies or faces. Plastic surgery with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons can play a pivotal role in helping you regain your confidence, feel comfortable in your skin, and celebrate your transformed body with a more proportionate, toned, and youthful appearance. 

In this blog, we share five plastic surgery procedures with a proven track record of enhancing the appearance and confidence of individuals who have undergone substantial weight loss, along with tips for maintaining long-lasting results.  

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. After significant weight loss, the skin often loses its elasticity and may sag, resulting in a protruding stomach and the appearance of a “belly pooch.” A tummy tuck can manage these concerns by creating a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. Patients can achieve a flatter, toned midsection by eliminating excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles. If you opt for a tummy tuck, you can expect a significant boost in your appearance and self-confidence!

  

Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

Weight loss can lead to excess skin and tissue in the upper arms, commonly referred to as “bat wings.” Brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, can help resolve this issue. By addressing the excess skin and tissue in the upper arms, brachioplasty can enhance the overall proportion and contour of the body following weight loss. The procedure involves removing the excess skin and fat from the upper arms for a more sculpted and toned appearance, allowing you to wear sleeveless clothing confidently. 

Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or Augmentation

Significant weight loss can cause the breasts to lose volume and sag, resulting in ptosis (droopy breasts). A breast lift, or mastopexy, can help elevate the breasts to a more youthful position by removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue. For some individuals who have lost a considerable amount of breast volume, breast augmentation with breast implants may be recommended to restore fullness and achieve a more proportionate bustline. Sometimes, a PSG provider might recommend combining both procedures for a more natural, flattering result. Whichever you end up choosing, know both of these procedures can elevate the appearance of the breasts and improve overall body confidence. 

Lower Body Lift

A lower body lift, also known as a thigh lift, treats excess skin and tissue in the lower body, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, and thighs. This comprehensive procedure involves removing excess skin and fat while lifting and tightening the remaining tissues to improve overall body contour. By targeting multiple areas in a single surgery, a lower body lift can provide dramatic results, helping individuals achieve a smoother, more toned lower body silhouette. If you’ve lost a significant amount of weight and are left with loose, hanging skin in the lower body region, this procedure can be particularly beneficial. 

Facial Rejuvenation Procedures

Weight loss can also affect the face, leading to loss of facial volume, sagging skin, and the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelifts, neck lifts, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and dermal filler injections can help restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Let’s check them out:

• Facelift surgery involves lifting and tightening the facial tissues to reduce sagging and wrinkles.
• Eyelid surgery addresses droopy eyelids and puffiness around the eyes. 
• Dermal fillers can add volume to hollowed areas of the face, restoring youthful contours and reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. 

By rejuvenating the face, these treatments can complement the body’s transformation after weight loss and boost overall confidence. You can think of them like the finishing touches on a design; they seem “small,” but they make a huge difference!

Maintaining Surgical Outcomes 

After undergoing plastic surgery, particularly following weight loss, it’s essential to prioritize proper post-surgery care, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and a stable, healthy body weight. This is important to safeguard the results a patient has achieved and to preserve your health. 

The body’s healing process after surgery is influenced by various factors, including wearing the proper compression garments and attention to nutrition. Adequate resting, hydration, and diligently following your PSG surgeon’s instructions are imperative for a quick and safe recovery. Don’t let this scare you off or overwhelm you, though! Your surgeon will discuss all the post-care instructions beforehand, so you’ll be well-prepared on the day of surgery.

Body Weight in Recovery:

Now, let’s dive a little deeper into why maintaining a stable and healthy body weight is crucial for preserving the contours and proportions achieved through surgery. Significant fluctuations in weight can alter the results, potentially leading to sagging skin, loss of definition, or unevenness. By adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen, patients not only support their body’s healing but also contribute to long-term success in maintaining their desired appearance. Consistency in healthy habits is key to ensuring that the investment in plastic surgery yields satisfying and enduring results for a long time.

Post-Surgery Care & Lifestyle:

Achieving optimal results from plastic surgery after weight loss requires proper care and maintenance. Your commitment to post-surgery care and lifestyle choices plays a pivotal role in the longevity and effectiveness of your surgical outcomes. Here are some tips for ensuring long-lasting results: 

• Carefully follow all post-operative instructions given by your Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis plastic surgeon, including wound care, activity restrictions, and medication management. 
• Once healed, maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent weight fluctuations and preserve your surgical results. 
• Protect your skin from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and avoiding prolonged sun exposure, as UV radiation can accelerate skin aging and affect surgical scars. 
• Attend all recommended follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon for routine evaluations and progress monitoring. These check-ups are critical for your health and the upkeep of your new look.
• Consider non-invasive cosmetic treatments such as laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, and skincare products at PSG Skincare & Laser Center to emphasize and maintain the results of your plastic surgery procedures. 

Plastic surgery is not a substitute for exercise or healthy living choices, but it does offer transformative solutions for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and are seeking to address excess skin, sagging tissues, and changes in body contour. With proper care and maintenance, these surgical results can be long-lasting, allowing individuals to fully enjoy the benefits of their weight loss journey. 

 

Level Up Your Weight Loss Journey With Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis!

It’s important to remember that a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to discover what procedures would be best for your body, lifestyle and long-term goals. To book your consultation with one of our five board-certified surgeons at the Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis, call 901-761-9030. We can’t wait to help you create a personalized treatment plan and achieve the best you possible!