Patients usually receive comprehensive support after undergoing bariatric surgery in centers with the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), and many bariatric centers offer support groups to help people adjust to life after weight loss. However, additional cosmetic procedures are often needed to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.
Arm lifts help reveal those toned and muscular arms. Individuals who lose weight often have loose skin or pesky pockets of fat that don’t respond to exercise. Brachioplasty tightens the skin on your arms and allows you to show off muscular definition.
Women who lose large amounts of weight are often left with breasts that are too large for their new frame. This can lead to daily back pain that becomes burdensome. Breast reduction may help bring your breasts into harmony with your new frame.
A breast lift, or mastopexy, is commonly included in post-weight loss surgery to restore a more youthful and elevated breast position. After significant weight loss, breasts often lose volume and firmness, leading to sagging. This procedure reshapes the breast tissue and repositions the nipple to achieve a more natural contour.
Weight loss may affect not only the body but also the face. The rapid weight loss often achieved with a successful bariatric program can accelerate the decline in skin elasticity, resulting in a prematurely aged appearance. A facelift will tighten the skin on your face and act as the first thing people see in the new you.
Post-weight loss surgery often includes other body contouring procedures like liposuction and panniculectomy. Liposuction helps refine areas with stubborn fat that remain despite significant weight loss, such as the flanks, thighs, or upper arms. Panniculectomy removes the hanging “apron” of skin and fat, known as the pannus, that may develop in the lower abdomen after significant weight loss.
Dr. Nesiba makes strategic incisions based on the treated areas and the amount of skin to remove. These incisions are typically placed in natural body folds or areas concealed by clothing. For procedures like body or arm lifts, longer incisions may be necessary to achieve the desired contour.
The core objective of post-bariatric surgery is to remove excess skin that remains after significant weight loss. Once the skin is lifted, underlying tissues may be tightened or repositioned to enhance body shape. The amount of skin removed depends on the individual’s anatomy and surgical goals.
In addition to skin removal, surgeons often contour tissue to sculpt the body more precisely. This may include tightening the muscle layer or using liposuction to eliminate small, stubborn fat deposits. These techniques help create smoother, more proportionate body lines.
After reshaping the tissues, incisions are carefully closed using layered sutures to support healing and reduce tension on the skin. Surgical drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup. The final result is a more streamlined appearance that reflects the patient’s weight loss progress.
Body contouring following weight loss is not for everyone. You should maintain a stable weight for three to six months and be nutritionally sound with no vitamin or mineral deficiencies before undergoing any procedures. Most importantly, you should understand that this is the finish line of a long and challenging journey, and you must be committed to continuing your healthy lifestyle.
Ideal candidates include:
The cost of post-bariatric surgery in Denver ranges from $6,000 to $20,000, depending on the types of procedures included and the complexity of the surgery. Factors such as the extent of excess skin removal, the surgeon’s experience, and additional treatments like liposuction or body lifts can influence the final price. Insurance may cover some aspects of the surgery if deemed medically necessary, but out-of-pocket costs can vary significantly. Patients should also consider potential follow-up care and post-operative support, which can add to the overall cost.
Dr. Nesiba provides cost estimates for each patient during the initial appointment. He needs to assess your cosmetic concerns and discuss your aesthetic goals to create a personalized treatment plan for your needs.
Flourish Surgical Arts offers a unique approach to post-bariatric surgery, guided by Dr. John R. Nesiba, our triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon. With a diverse medical background, Dr. Nesiba brings a meticulous, holistic perspective to body contouring. His expertise is further refined by a fellowship and training under renowned cosmetic surgeons, making him one of the leading providers in the Denver metro area. Known for his personalized care, Dr. Nesiba takes the time to understand each patient’s journey, tailoring treatments that address their specific needs.
With over 1,000 cosmetic procedures under his belt and a focus on precision, Flourish Surgical Arts offers expertise and empathy that ensures every patient feels heard, safe, and confident throughout their surgical transformation.