Overview
Post-bariatric surgery is indicated in cases of large amounts of excess skin following severe weight loss, either as a result of bariatric surgery (by a gastric bypass or lap-band procedure), and/or non-surgical means such as diet and exercise. In these cases, the skin is stretched, in addition to the presence of remaining areas of excess body fat. A combination of procedures is strategically designed for the needs of each particular patient, and more than one surgery is often required to achieve a complete outcome. Multiple procedures may be performed throughout different surgeries—circumferencial tummy tuck, thigh lift, arm lift, breast lift, back lift, etc. A planning for a combinatino of surgeries is therefore created during consultation. Post-bariatric surgery should only be undertaken once the patient has stablized his/her weight.
Anesthesia
Anesthesia may be general, regional (spinal), and/or intravenous sedation in combination with local anesthesia in the area being treated.
Surgery Duration
The surgical procedure takes place over an average period of 3 hours. If necessary, this period may be extended. However, the surgical procedure time should not be confused with the amount of time the patient will be in the operating room. That amount of time will also include the administering of anesthesia and postoperative recovery.