Bariatric Contouring
Sometimes, no amount of exercise can eliminate stubborn pockets of fat throughout the body. SSM Health offers a wide range of body contouring procedures to help sculpt those trouble areas. Bariatric contouring is a procedure many will elect to take after dramatic weight loss or bariatric surgery. No matter what your health goals are, our experienced physicians are dedicated to partnering with you to ensure the quality of life you seek and deserve.
Dramatic weight loss can have many health and physical benefits. However, after a substantial amount of weight loss, from surgery or lifestyle changes, the skin and tissues often lack the needed elasticity to conform to the right body size.
Common Body Contouring Procedures
- Tummy tuck
- Lower body lifts
- Medial thigh lift
- Arm lift
- Facelift
- Breast lift
Candidates for Bariatric Contouring
In general, you may be a good candidate for bariatric contouring if you:
- Are an adult whose weight loss has stabilized
- Are a healthy individual without medical conditions that would impair healing or increase the risk of surgery
- Don’t smoke
- Have a positive outlook and realistic goals
- Are committed to leading a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition and a fitness routine
Ultimately, the best way to find out if you are a good candidate for surgery is to set up a consultation with an SSM Health plastic surgeon.
Preparing for Bariatric Contouring
During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your medical history and treatment goals, as well as what available options there are. We can share before-and-after photos to demonstrate the benefits of various surgical options and what you could expect. At this time, it’s important to share any medications you take with your physician. This can alter some of your available treatment options.
We will also take this time to discuss what to expect during surgery, including anesthesia, hospital care, or postoperative care.
Post-Bariatric Contouring
Depending on the procedure(s), recovery process and time will vary. It is crucial to follow your physician’s instructions for postoperative care. You may have some visible scars. Be sure to rest so that your surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, motion, swelling or abrasion while you heal. In some situations, a second surgery may be necessary.
Your SSM Health physician will give you specific instructions for your post-surgical care. These may include:
- How to care for the surgical site(s)
- Medications to apply or take orally
- Specific concerns to look out for
- When to follow up with your surgeon
The results of body contouring generally last a long time. Ultimately though, this depends on your dedication to maintaining proper nutrition and fitness and an overall healthy lifestyle. Over time you may lose some firmness during the natural ageing process, but this is completely normal.
Whether it’s to enhance, reduce, contour or renew, our experienced SSM Health plastic surgeons can help you achieve the look that’s right for you. Contact us today and we can help decide what works best for you.