Remove Loose Skin with a Tummy Tuck After Bariatric Surgery

Tummy Tuck After Bariatric Surgery for Flat Abs

Embarking on the journey of weight loss through bariatric surgery is a significant and exciting step towards a healthier lifestyle and a more attractive body. However, one common consequence of substantial weight loss is excess skin, particularly around the abdomen. Sadly, large amounts of loose skin after bariatric surgery weight loss can be frustrating and discouraging, hiding your achievement of a slimmer body.

Fortunately, for those who have undergone bariatric surgery and are facing this challenge, a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, offers a safe and permanent solution to remove excess skin and tighten and tone the abdominal area – for a smoother and more contoured silhouette.

In this article, top Troy, MI area plastic surgeon Dr. Ali explains how tummy tuck surgery can remove excess skin after bariatric surgery weight loss – so that you can feel confident in your new, slimmer, trimmer body.

Why Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Leaves Sagging Skin

Bariatric surgery facilitates weight loss by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold or by reducing the absorption of nutrients in the digestive system. While this leads to significant weight reduction, the skin often struggles to retract fully to accommodate the reduced body size.

This results in loose, sagging skin, particularly in areas like the abdomen, which is unable to snap back to its former shape. Factors such as age, genetics, and the duration and extent of weight loss can influence the degree of skin laxity experienced after bariatric surgery.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average weight loss after bariatric surgery typically ranges from 50 to 80 pounds within the first six months to a year post-surgery, depending on the type of procedure and individual factors such as starting weight and adherence to lifestyle changes.

As a result, while the amount of excess skin left after significant weight loss can vary widely among patients, it generally amounts to several pounds. A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in 2013 found that the average amount of excess skin removed during a body contouring procedure after massive weight loss was approximately 5.6 pounds.

The percentage of bariatric weight loss patients requiring skin tightening surgery after significant weight loss is estimated to be as high as 70% to 75%. This figure can vary based on factors such as age, genetics, amount of weight lost, and skin elasticity. However, a systematic review published in the Obesity Surgery journal in 2018 reported that up to three-quarters of patients who undergo bariatric surgery will eventually seek body contouring procedures to address excess skin.

What is Tummy Tuck Surgery?

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin (and fat if necessary) from the abdominal area while also tightening the underlying muscles (when needed) to create a firmer and smoother abdominal contour. During the procedure, an incision is made along the lower abdomen, allowing the surgeon to access and remove excess tissue.

If they have been stretched, the abdominal muscles are also tightened during tummy tuck surgery. The remaining skin is carefully repositioned and sutured into place for a more toned appearance. Depending on the extent of correction needed, different types of tummy tucks, such as full, mini, or extended tummy tucks, may be recommended.

Additionally, during tummy tuck surgery, the belly button is typically repositioned by making an incision around it and creating a new opening in the tightened abdominal skin, allowing it to emerge in a more natural and aesthetically pleasing position. This step is crucial for achieving natural-looking results and ensuring that the belly button retains its normal appearance despite the removal of excess skin and tissue during the procedure.

How Tummy Tuck Surgery Tightens Skin After Bariatric Surgery

Tummy tuck surgery addresses the issue of excess skin left behind after significant weight loss from bariatric surgery, by removing the surplus tissue and tightening the remaining skin. By eliminating the loose, sagging skin, the abdominal area becomes smoother and more contoured, restoring a sleek, proportionate, and aesthetically pleasing silhouette.

Additionally, the tightening of the underlying muscles during the procedure further enhances the abdominal contour, providing a firmer and more toned appearance.

It’s essential to have skin tightening after bariatric surgery performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali in the Troy, MI area in order to minimize and hide scarring, ensure natural repositioning of the belly button, and customize the procedure to address individual needs, resulting in a smoother, more proportionate contour.

Other Considerations for Tummy Tuck Surgery After Bariatric Surgery

Before undergoing tummy tuck surgery after bariatric surgery, patients should ensure they have reached a stable weight and have maintained it for several months. This is important to minimize the risk of regaining weight and compromising the results of the tummy tuck surgery. Additionally, patients should be in good overall health and have quit smoking prior to tummy tuck surgery.

Recovery, Scarring & Results After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Following tummy tuck surgery, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the abdominal area, which gradually subsides over time. A compression garment is typically worn to support the abdomen and help reduce swelling during the initial healing phase.

While some scarring is unavoidable with any surgical procedure, Dr. Ali is an expert at placing incisions strategically along the lower abdomen where they can often be concealed beneath clothing or swimsuits. With proper care and scar management techniques, the scars typically fade and become considerably less noticeable over time.

And while nothing can completely stop the aging process, tummy tuck results are permanent, so patients can enjoy long-lasting results from their tummy tuck surgery, provided they maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight.

Tummy Tuck Surgery | Troy, MI

Tummy tuck surgery at AMAE Plastic Surgery in the Troy, MI area offers a transformative solution for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery and are left with excess skin around their abdomen. By removing the surplus tissue, tightening the abdominal muscles, and repositioning the remaining skin, tummy tuck surgery can give patients a smoother, flatter and more contoured abdomen, showing off your incredible weight loss to enhance your appearance and self-confidence.

If you have undergone dramatic weight loss with bariatric surgery, renowned Troy, MI area plastic surgeon Dr. Ali is here to help you take the final step to enjoying your weight loss with tummy tuck skin tightening surgery.