Patient Stories: Colleen
Weight loss either through bariatric surgery or diet and exercise is truly a life-changing event. After undergoing a Gastric Sleeve, Colleen lost 70-80 lbs. While most of the changes accompanying weight loss are positive, loose skin is a concern for many patients. Hanging skin can affect both comfort and self-confidence and can be a daily reminder of past obesity. The best time to consider plastic surgery is when you are as close to your goal weight as possible and are weight stable. This is usually 12-18 months after the gastric bypass surgery or gastric banding.
This lovely patient was happy to share her story after choosing to undergo a Lipoabdominoplasty with Dr. Derby. To meet with Dr. Derby, request a consultation at Sarasota Plastic Surgery Center or call (941) 366-8897.
Surgery after weight loss faqs
Typical body parts that are addressed for surgery are the abdomen, buttocks, upper thighs, breasts, arms and neck. The most common areas for improvement include the breasts and abdominal area, which can usually be done at the same time. During the course of losing weight, the areas of loose skin will become more obvious and it is usually around this time that patients begin consulting with a plastic surgeon.
Before moving forward with this procedure, patients should be at or near their goal weight. Sometimes, removing the loose skin helps accelerate weight loss. This is the case when loose skin gets in the way of the patient’s daily physical activities.
Insurance companies, for the most part, will not cover the expenses associated with cosmetic surgery.