Improved Contouring Techniques Target Soaring Obese Population

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The number of post-bariatric plastic surgery patients has skyrocketed in recent years – up 22 percent from 2004 to 2005 alone. However, patients who experience significant weight loss after bariatric surgery often require special contouring techniques to remove excess skin.

An article published in the June 2006 issue of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery details how improved mid-body lift techniques effectively remove the massive amounts of excess skin in formerly obese patients.

“A traditional abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is insufficient for these patients, who after this kind of extreme weight loss require a special operation called a circumferential abdominoplasty, a type of complicated, mid-body lift, which we have modified,” said Dr. Berish Strauch, author of the article.

More extensive than a traditional tummy tuck, circumferential abdominoplasty requires a staged approach.

During the first surgery, excess skin is removed from the stomach, thighs, and buttocks. Approximately three months later, a second surgery is performed to contour other areas including underarm “wings,” face, neck, breast, and back.

“This staged approach improves the patients' quality of life, has wonderful aesthetic results, and has proven to be safe and effective,” Dr. Strauch said. “It is truly gratifying to be able to give these patients the body they have dreamed of having.”

According to the article, circumferential abdominoplasty requires additional operating room time as well as increased recovery time. Still, these special procedures have a remarkably low incidence of complications, he noted.

To learn more about post-bariatric plastic surgery procedures or to locate a board certified plastic surgeon near you, please contact us .


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