After Weight Loss Surgery

Get rid of loose skin and achieve a more contoured body after weight loss.

About the procedure

Congratulations on achieving your weight loss goals!  Many patients, like yourself, seek plastic surgery to correct the loose skin and residual fat deposits that remain following weight loss.  Although they are not physical scars, many weight loss patients believe this loose skin and fat serve as constant reminders of their past.  The group of procedures to address this concern is generally called “body contouring”.

Plastic surgery after weight loss or bariatric surgery in Tacoma and Puyallup addresses concerns with loose skin following extensive weight loss, either through diet and exercise or bariatric surgery. Despite a stable new weight, this dramatic change frequently leaves patients with loose skin and a deflated appearance. Often over-expanded by previous weight gain, excess skin usually lacks elasticity and tends to sag considerably. Even in younger patients, satisfactory tightening does not occur naturally. Sagging skin commonly develops around the face, neck, breasts, back, abdomen, buttocks, inner and outer thighs, and upper arms. Depending on the degree of weight loss and loose skin, multiple areas may require tightening procedures to eliminate skin redundancy and improve contours. And to maximize safety, your surgical plan may involve several stages to address all concerns.

Dr. Tarak Patel, is trained and experienced with numerous techniques to deliver head-to-toe rejuvenation after major weight loss.


Who is a candidate for weight loss surgery?

To determine if you are a good candidate for cosmetic surgery after weight loss, Dr. Patel will review your health history and perform an examination during your consultation. Appropriate candidates have reached a stable weight, do not smoke, and do not have medical conditions that prohibit safe surgery and proper wound healing. Dr. Patel will carefully assess your skin laxity, muscle tone, fat deposits, and existing contours.

During the consultation, He will understand your goals and desires and he will review available options and techniques with you. Your surgical plan may involve combinations of various procedures. Several common cosmetic procedures relevant to weight loss are listed below.

For more information about after weight loss surgery or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Patel, please call us or email us today!


What should I know about taking care of myself after the procedure?

Aftercare is determined based on the procedures selected. Typically recovery is 2-3 weeks. You will likely be driving by 7-10 days once you are off pain medication. There will be lifting and exercise restrictions for 4-6 weeks.