What is body contouring after major weight loss?
Achieving massive weight loss is a life-changing accomplishment—whether through bariatric surgery or lifestyle transformation. But many patients are left with excess skin, loose tissue, and stubborn fat deposits. At Thomassen Plastic Surgery in Fort Lauderdale, we offer body contouring after major weight loss to help you complete your transformation.
What Procedures Form Part of Body Contouring?
After significant weight loss, the skin often fails to conform to the body’s new shape. Body contouring refers to a series of surgical procedures designed to remove excess skin and sculpt a firmer, more proportionate physique.
Common procedures include:
- Lower body lift (belt lipectomy)
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
- Arm lift (brachioplasty)
- Thigh lift
- Breast lift (mastopexy)
- Back lift
These procedures are often performed in stages based on your anatomy and recovery goals.
Why do People Choose to Undergo These Procedures?
Loose, hanging skin can lead to:
- Chafing and skin irritation
- Difficulty exercising
- Poor fit of clothing
- Emotional or body image concerns
Body contouring improves physical comfort and enhances self-confidence by creating smoother, more defined body contours.
Am I a Good Candidate for Body Contouring?
Ideal candidates for post-weight loss body contouring in Fort Lauderdale:
- Have lost 20 lbs or more and maintained a stable weight for at least 3 months
- Are in good general health
- Do not smoke (or are willing to stop)
- Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
Dr. Thomassen will evaluate your goals, medical history, and skin quality to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Details of Most Common Procedures involved in Body Contouring
Body contouring surgery usually combines multiple procedures to achieve a comprehensive result. Dr. Thomassen will recommend the procedures needed. Often these will need to be staged, or performed at separate times, usually with 4-6 week recovery period in between. The most commonly performed procedures include:
- Lower body lift: to correct sagging of the abdomen, buttocks, groin and outer thighs. Incision patterns vary. A technique includes a circumferential incision around the body. This removes the “belt” of excess skin and fat. This is also called a circumferential abdominoplasty.
- Breast lift: to correct sagging, flattened breasts. A breast implant also is recommended to enhance breast shape and size.
- Arm lift: to correct sagging of the upper arms. Extra incisions into the axilla and flank be necessary to handle excess skin in these areas.
- Thigh lift: to correct sagging of the inner, outer and mid thigh. Surgeons reshape the thighs through incisions in the groin. These incisions can extend downward to the knee along the inner part of the thigh.
What to Expect During Surgery
Your body contouring journey begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. John Thomassen, a Georgetown fellowship-trained, board-certified plastic surgeon.
Surgical procedures are performed in a state-of-the-art accredited facility with safety as the top priority. Depending on the extent of correction needed, surgeries may be staged over several months for optimal outcomes.
These procedures are all performed under IV sedation and local anesthesia. Occasionally, general anesthesia is used.
Recovery & Results
- Initial recovery takes 1–3 weeks, depending on the procedure.
- Most patients return to normal activity within 4–6 weeks.
- Results are long-lasting when paired with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Scars will fade over time and are strategically placed to be hidden by clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is body contouring covered by insurance?
A: In some cases, if skin removal is deemed medically necessary (e.g., due to rashes or infections), partial insurance coverage may apply.
Q: Will I need drains after surgery?
A: Some procedures may require drains temporarily to reduce fluid buildup.
Q: Can I combine multiple procedures?
A: Yes, combination surgery is common and can reduce overall recovery time, depending on your health and surgical goals.
Schedule Your Consultation
Complete your weight loss journey with expert body contouring by Dr. John Thomassen. Serving patients across Fort Lauderdale, and surrounding South Florida communities.
📞 Call us at (954) 771-0200 to book your consultation
Or Book your Consultation Online.
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