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Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Losing a vast amount of weight is a wonderful accomplishment. However, it comes with excess sagging skin which can present a new challenge which can keep an individual from fully enjoying the benefits of their weight loss.

Post-weight loss surgery involves the removal of excess skin and restoring a more aesthetically pleasing body contour. Candidates typically choose post weight loss surgery if they suffer from loose, inelastic skin after extreme weight loss due to diet, exercise or bariatric surgery.

Post-Weight Loss Surgery Technique Options

Post-weight loss surgery includes a range of various body contouring procedures that address excess skin folds on the arms, legs, torso and buttocks thus helping individuals achieve a more natural, and aesthetically pleasing shape. The techniques involved are:

  • Lower body lift: This involves the tightening of the tissues on the abdomen, buttocks and thighs.
  • Panniculectomy: This procedure involves the removal of the apron of skin called the pannus, which hangs from below the belly button.
  • Thigh and buttock lift: A thigh and buttock lift get rid of excess skin gathered around the buttocks and thighs.
  • Upper body lift procedures: A number of procedures are done on the upper body targeting various issues like bra rolls, sagging breasts or loose hanging skin on the upper arms.

Our Commitment To You

Our highly trained and experienced staff will guide you smoothly and comfortably along the entire process of Post-weight loss surgery in Dubai, which will allow you to make the best decision. At Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery, our experts have more than 20 years of experience in plastic and cosmetic procedures and have helped more than 10,000 patients safely achieve their dream of beauty and confidence. We will identify the most suitable expert for you, will listen to you, understand and identify your individual and detailed requirements in a tailor-made consultation, advise you on what you expect from the right treatment and ultimately develop the most suitable treatment plan with you.

The Post-Weight Loss Surgery Process

a) The Consultation

The first step of a post-weight loss surgery is having a detailed consultation and examination in the clinic with our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, to determine a tailor-made plan for each candidate.

b) The Surgery

The second step is to schedule the post weight loss surgery in Dubai with a highly qualified and experienced Plastic Surgeon who is an expert in post-weight loss surgery and other body contouring procedures. Depending on the body area, the procedure requires 1-3 hours under general anesthesia.

Prior to the surgery, each patient is screened to ensure that it is safe to proceed with the procedure. This includes a pre-anesthetic consultation, blood testing, and to ensure the patient is a fit candidate for the procedure.

The surgery is conducted in a hospital operating theatre and the patient typically spends 1 to 3 nights in the hospital after surgery to recover depending on the surgery involved. He or she can spend more time if required. The techniques involved in post-weight loss surgery include;

  • Lower body lift: This is one of the most extensive procedures. It involves an incision just above the hip bone, which runs around the circumference of the body. The surgeon tightens stretched abdominal muscles through this incision, removes excess sagging skin from the back and front of the torso then lifts the remaining tissues to restore a firmer and shapelier lower body appearance.
  • Abdominoplasty: also known as a tummy tuck, abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure which removes excess fat and skin from the midsection. It also restores separated and weakened muscles resulting in a smoother and firmer midsection. During this procedure, the surgeon cuts the abdomen from one hipbone to the other hipbone and then contours the skin, muscles and tissue as needed. If required, the belly button is placed through a new opening thereby changing and re-centering its position.
  • Panniculectomy: The incision of this technique is similar to that of a tummy tuck which is located just above the pubic bone. This procedure can dramatically improve an individual’s comfort and help clothing fit better but it however does not tighten the abdominal contours when it is performed as a standalone procedure. Once the apron of skin has been removed, a smoother and firmer torso is restored.
  • Thigh and buttock lift:  This procedure removes excess fat and skin and restores a firmer, smoother and more slender appearance to the buttocks and legs. Incisions vary depending on the location and amount of skin to be removed. However, the incisions are placed in the least conspicuous places possible such as the natural crease beneath the buttocks or lower hips, the groin or where the scars can be concealed by a swimsuit.
  • Upper body lift procedures: There are various upper body lift procedures such as an arm lift, a back lift or bra line lift and breast lift surgery. These procedures restore a firmer and more youthful appearance.

The expert Plastic Surgeon accompanies the patient throughout the entire process of recovery and healing, through scheduled follow-ups.

c) The Recovery

Recovery from post-weight loss surgery takes a few days to weeks and it varies depending on the procedure that has been done. Your doctor will however guide you through it. Upon discharge from the hospital, the patient typically has minor bandages, which are changed the following day, and new ones placed.  During the recovery period, strenuous activity should be avoided, but normal day-to-day activities can typically be resumed after 1 to 2 weeks.

Over a period of about 4 weeks, the patient would typically have several post-operation visits to the clinic to monitor the healing process.

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Before And After Results

At Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery Dubai, we do our best to protect our patients’ confidentiality. That is why all the Before & After results are not available online, however, they will be shown during a consultation in The Clinic only.

Meet Our Team

Our Board-Certified expert surgeons have over 20 years’ surgical experience and are trained at some of the world’s best medical schools with a proven track record in UAE, the USA and Brazil.

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Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Buthainah Al Shunnar is an Emirati American Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in breast surgery, body contouring, aesthetic facial surgery, hand surgery, post-cancer reconstruction and microsurgery, as well as non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as Botox, Dermal Fillers and PRP.

Dr. Buthainah Al-Shunnar

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

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Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Dr Kamal is an American Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in aesthetic facial surgery, breast surgery, reconstructive surgery, body contouring, fat transfer and non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as Botox, Dermal Fillers and PRP.

Dr. Kamal Sawan

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

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Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Claudia Machado is a Brazilian Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in aesthetic facial surgery, breast surgery, body contouring, fat transfer and minimal and non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as Botox, Dermal Fillers, PRP, Chemical peels, CO2 therapy and others.

Dr. Claudia Alves Silva Machado

Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Precautions

Although a post weight loss procedure is straightforward, it is important that the right level of intervention or treatment is determined and that the procedure, whether surgical or non-surgical be performed by a qualified and expert Plastic Surgeon. A potential candidate has to fit into certain criteria to be eligible for the procedure and should:

  • Have stable weight.
  • Be able to take several weeks to recover.
  • Understand the potential outcome of having visible scars.
  • Have realistic expectations regarding the expected results.
  • Be in good health both physically and psychologically.

What To Expect From A Post Weight Loss Surgery

The main benefit of a post-weight loss surgery is a more contoured body. Since everyone is different, the expected results of a post-weight loss surgery might vary from person to person, but benefits typically include:

  • A more contoured body
  • Increased confidence
  • Fitting well into clothes
  • Better looking body
  • A firmer body shape

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a massive weight loss?

According to the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, a massive weight loss is the loss of more than 40% of your excess weight or at least more than 100 pounds, through diet and exercise, bariatric surgery, or lap band surgery. Post-weight loss surgery involves the removal of loose, excess skin that is resistant to exercise and diet. The remaining skin in the treatment areas is tightened to help contour your body and to reflect the results of your weight loss journey.

Why won’t my skin go back to fit my thinner body without surgery?

The skin contains elastic fibers that help it to stretch, move, and adapt to weight changes. However, when there is rapid weight loss or gain, the skin loses its elasticity similar to how a rubber band loses its snap after time and use. The skin does tighten with some amount of weight loss but it does not fully recover. After a massive weight loss, there are likely to be some areas of skin laxity that can only be treated with body contouring surgery.

What body areas can be contoured after weight loss?

During your consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who is an expert in post-weight loss surgery, you will receive tailor-made recommendations according to your body’s needs. It is however advisable to concentrate on your problem areas first and then continue from there.

Some of the most popular body contouring procedures after weight loss include buttock and thigh lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, breast lift, arm lift, blepharoplasty, neck lift, and facelift.

Who is the ideal candidate for post-weight loss surgery?

Post-weight loss surgery is meant for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and their new weight has remained stable for at least 3 months. These procedures are for individuals who are committed to a healthier lifestyle and are realistic about the results of the body contouring procedures. The results of the procedures are not permanent and if you are not committed to proper fitness and nutrition after your weight loss journey, your body could go back to the way it was.

Does post-weight loss surgery leave scars?

Post-weight loss surgery is a trade-off, in that to receive the desired slim contour, the skin needs to be removed and this will result in permanent scars. Our body contouring skilled Board Certified Plastic Surgeons at Al Shunnar have been trained in techniques to tighten skin and minimize scarring by placing the incisions in discrete areas of the body. Although there are skin treatments and topical creams that can improve the appearance of scars, the scars will not disappear completely. Knowing this before the procedure can help you to be realistic about the body contouring surgery.

How long does the recovery take?

Recovery from post-weight loss surgery varies depending on the number of surgeries you have undergone, but generally, the recovery takes about 6 weeks. The surgeries are performed on different body areas and because of this, it is vital to have a support network of people who will help you out as you recover. Avoid exercising, heavy lifting, or any strenuous activity during the first 6 weeks after your surgery as your body is healing.

Patient Reviews

I always say this and will continue to say it — anyone who crosses paths with Dr. B is incredibly lucky. If you’re looking for a doctor who gives honest, thoughtful advice with your best interest at heart, she’s the one. I initially visited Dr. B to correct uneven lip filler that had been done at another clinic, and not only did she fix it beautifully, but she also offered guidance that was genuinely helpful and tailored to me. What I love most is that her work is always natural and personalized — you never feel like just another patient. I’ve recommended her to several friends, and they’ve all had the same amazing experience. I truly can’t say enough about how skilled, kind, and positive she is. Her energy is unmatched and makes every visit a pleasure.

Next Steps

Meet one of our experts at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery for a personal consultation, to develop a tailor-made plan for you. Contact us or book an appointment and our patient care coordinators will identify the most suitable expert for you.

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