Body Contouring After Major Weight Loss
Overview
The popularity of gastric bypass surgery has skyrocketed in recent years as Orange County, like the rest of America, wages war on obesity. The procedure is intended to induce a high volume of weight loss in a short length of time, usually over 100 pounds in 12 to 18 months. The skin has slowly stretched and increased in volume to accommodate the extra weight, and it typically cannot regain elasticity that quickly.Many people find that, after extreme weight loss, their skin quite literally no longer fits. Like their clothing, it is too large, and hangs in bags or wrinkles. Patients often feel extremely disappointed and self-conscious, often believing that they are no more attractive than they were before weight loss. Depending on the volume of excess skin, it can also cause hygiene problems, inhibit normal movement, and make it all but impossible to find clothing that fits properly. Fortunately, these problems can be corrected with surgical body contouring. You will be ready to consult with Dr. Nguyen once your weight has stabilized with no more than 5 lbs. lost per month over the last 3-6 months.
The procedure
Post-weight loss has become an important focus of our practice due to the growing demand in Orange County. It is advisable to see a plastic surgeon who is experienced in these techniques, because the situation is very different from standard body contouring. Due to the large volume of skin to be removed, along with the loss of elasticity in that skin, a multi-faceted, highly customized approach is needed. What works well for an individual with sagging skin caused by aging may return very disappointing results for a gastric bypass patient.Dr. Nguyen has developed a unique approach for overall body contouring, designed to address the many aspects of post-gastric bypass body contouring. The treatment is tailored to each patient's individual needs. The amount and location of excess skin can vary greatly, depending on factors such as a person's health, age, and most importantly, the amount of weight that was shed.
During your initial consultation, we will discuss your goals, and your treatment priorities. Gastric bypass surgery affects multiple areas of the body, and multiple techniques are typically combined for optimal results. We will address the areas of greatest concern first. Often several areas can be treated at once. For example, a breast lift and arm lift are often combined. The doctor will work with your coordinator to determine what portion, if any, of the treatment plan may be covered by your insurance.
Results
Patients are generally extremely happy with their new, firm, shapely bodies. Many say that surgical body contouring gave them the beautiful results they were envisioning when they embarked on their quest for thinner waistlines. We use the latest techniques and innovative technology to help you feel more comfortable in your own skin.Related Articles
A Magna cum Laude graduate from Millsaps College, Dr. Thomas T. Nguyen is a board certified plastic surgeon. He brings with him a plethora of skill, expertise and knowledge given his 20 plus years of experience in the field.Dr. Nguyen is presently the medical director of Orange County Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery Center. He has engaged in research and contributed to many medical publications and continues to be deeply passionate about providing the best possible treatment for his patients.
