Major Weight Loss Tummy Tuck

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills and Greater Los Angeles

It is common for individuals who have undergone major weight loss to be left with excess skin and stubborn pockets of fat in the abdominal area. This can be frustrating and prevent those who have worked so hard to lose weight from fully enjoying their new body.

At Zarrabi Plastic Surgery, we specialize in helping patients achieve their desired body contour after massive weight loss from bariatric surgery or weight loss medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus). We do so through a comprehensive approach that includes tummy tuck procedures. Also known as abdominoplasty, this surgical procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles for a firmer and more toned appearance.

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Contents

1 Before and After Photos
2 About the Major Weight Loss Tummy Tuck
3 How is a Major Weight Loss Tummy Tuck Different?
4 Benefits of a Major Weight Loss Tummy Tuck
5 Candidates for a Tummy Tuck After Massive Weight Loss
6 Personal Consultation
7 Preparation
8 Recovery & Results
9 Cost of a Tummy Tuck After Massive Weight Loss in Beverly Hills
10 FAQ
11 References

Our skilled plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael Zarrabi, has extensive experience in body contouring surgery specifically tailored to address the unique needs of weight loss patients. If you are ready to take the next step towards achieving a more contoured and toned abdomen, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery. Contact our office today at (310) 584-9990 or visit our contact page to learn more about the transformative possibilities that await you. Entrust your body transformation to an experienced plastic surgeon who is dedicated to helping you look and feel your absolute best.

About the Major Weight Loss Tummy Tuck

For the past several decades, the United States has faced an obesity epidemic. According to statistics, one in three American adults is obese. ⁽¹⁾ However, an increasing percentage of men and women are taking control of their excess weight through procedures like sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve), gastric bypass, and medications like Ozempic. The journey of massive weight loss is a remarkable achievement that brings about significant changes in both physical and emotional well-being. However, one common challenge that individuals face after such an accomplishment is excess skin and tissue in the abdominal area. This excess skin not only hinders the body’s contour but also serves as a constant reminder of the past.

Excess skin removal is a critical component of post-bariatric surgery because the skin has often lost elasticity and cannot naturally conform to the body’s new contours. Additionally, weakened and separated abdominal muscles can occur, a condition known as diastasis recti. During a tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon makes an incision along the lower abdomen, carefully concealing it within the bikini line. Through this incision, they remove the unwanted excess skin and fat, while also addressing any separated or weakened abdominal muscles. By tightening these muscles, he restores a firmer and more defined abdominal contour.

How is a Major Weight Loss Tummy Tuck Different?

If you have undergone massive weight loss and desire to complete your transformation with a tummy tuck, you may want to know what makes this procedure different from a standard abdominoplasty. In general, in massive weight loss patients, the surgeon makes a longer horizontal incision that extends further than the standard tummy tuck. The abdominal muscles may or may not be repaired. They may also remove more excess skin, particularly the pannus – an apron-like area of skin that can develop in overweight individuals. The removal of a significant amount of tissue in this area may be referred to as a panniculectomy. ⁽²⁾Additionally, a 360-Degree Body Lift is an option for comprehensive results throughout the entire midsection.

Benefits of a Major Weight Loss Tummy Tuck

Improved body contour: After significant weight loss, excess skin and tissue can remain, obscuring the true extent of your accomplishment. A tummy tuck removes this excess skin and tightens the underlying abdominal muscles, resulting in a more toned and sculpted appearance.
Alleviated discomfort: Excessive skin folds and tissue can cause discomfort, irritation, and even painful rashes. A tummy tuck eliminates these issues, providing relief and allowing you to live a more comfortable and pain-free lifestyle.
Increased mobility: Excess skin around the midsection can restrict movement and hinder physical activities. By removing this excess tissue, a tummy tuck can enhance your mobility, allowing you to engage in exercise and other activities without limitations. You’ll be able to fully enjoy an active lifestyle.
Reduced risk of infections: Loose skin folds can create an environment prone to bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infections. Tummy tuck surgery removes this excess skin, reducing the likelihood of infections and associated complications. You’ll enjoy improved overall health and well-being as a result.
Enhanced self-confidence: Excess loose skin and fat in the abdomen can significantly impact your self-esteem and body image. By eliminating this excess tissue, a tummy tuck can boost your self-confidence and help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. You’ll be able to embrace your new body shape and fully enjoy the results of your weight loss journey.
Clothing fits better: Excess skin around the abdomen can make it challenging to find clothing that fits properly. After a tummy tuck, clothes tend to fit better and look more flattering on your newly contoured body. This benefit can greatly improve your shopping experience and allow you to confidently wear the clothes you love.
Long-lasting results: The benefits of a tummy tuck after massive weight loss are long-lasting, as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle. By adopting a nutritious diet and engaging in regular exercise, you can preserve the results of your tummy tuck for years to come.

Candidates for a Tummy Tuck After Massive Weight Loss

Candidates for a tummy tuck after massive weight loss are individuals who have successfully shed a significant amount of weight, have kept the weight off, and are now faced with loose, excess skin in the abdominal area. Patients should not be obese and should have a healthy BMI to be considered.

The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck after massive weight loss is someone who is in good overall health, has maintained a stable weight for at least six months, and has realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery. Candidates must be non-smokers or are willing to quit smoking before the procedure, as smoking can impair the healing process.

Personal Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Zarrabi will perform a thorough evaluation of your medical history and current physical condition. This evaluation allows him to determine your eligibility for a tummy tuck and assess any potential risks or complications. Dr. Zarrabi will explain the tummy tuck procedure in detail, addressing any questions or concerns you may have. He will discuss the surgical techniques involved, including the removal of excess skin and the tightening of abdominal muscles, to help you understand the transformative effects of this procedure.

Preparation

Achieving stable weight is paramount before undergoing a tummy tuck after significant weight loss. Our team will work closely with you to ensure that your weight has stabilized for a certain period, guaranteeing optimal results and reducing the chances of complications during and after the surgery. Assessing your skin elasticity is another critical aspect of the preparation process. By evaluating the quality and resilience of your skin, we can determine the extent of excess skin removal required and manage your expectations regarding the outcome.

We will recommend certain lifestyle adjustments in preparation for the surgery. These may include maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, avoiding certain medications and supplements, and refraining from smoking. By adopting these positive changes, you can enhance your long-term success and overall well-being.

Recovery & Results

Following your tummy tuck surgery, it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the abdominal area. Dr. Zarrabi will provide you with specific post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. He will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort you may experience. You will be required to wear a compression garment to support the healing tissues and minimize swelling. Most patients can expect to return to work in 7-10 days, with full recovery taking place after 6-8 weeks

The results of a tummy tuck after massive weight loss can be long-lasting, as long as patients maintain a stable weight and continue to adopt a healthy lifestyle. While the natural aging process will continue, the improvements made during surgery will remain significant. It is essential to follow post-operative instructions, including proper diet and exercise, to optimize and maintain the results over time.

Cost of a Tummy Tuck After Massive Weight Loss in Beverly Hills

The cost of a tummy tuck after major weight loss will vary depending on several factors. At Zarrabi Plastic Surgery, we understand that each patient has unique needs and goals. Therefore, the cost of your procedure will be determined by factors such as the extent of the surgery required, the techniques utilized, anesthesia fees, and other associated expenses.

If you are ready to take the next step towards achieving a beautifully contoured abdomen after massive weight loss, we invite you to contact Zarrabi Plastic Surgery. Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through the process and provide you with the information you need. Call us at (310) 584-9990 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Michael Zarrabi at our Beverly Hills location.

If the major weight loss tummy tuck and other plastic surgery procedures at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery are of interest to you, consider reading Dr. Zarrabi’s blog.

FAQ

Will there be significant scarring after a major weight loss tummy tuck?

While surgeons make every effort to minimize scarring, it is important to understand that some degree of scarring is inevitable. Surgeons strategically place incisions in inconspicuous areas to ensure that any scarring is easily concealable. Over time, scars generally fade and become less noticeable.

Are there any non-surgical alternatives to a tummy tuck after massive weight loss?

While non-surgical alternatives may help improve the appearance of the abdomen to some extent, they cannot provide the same transformative results as a tummy tuck after massive weight loss. Procedures such as CoolSculpting or laser treatments may reduce small pockets of fat or improve skin texture, but they cannot address loose skin or repair abdominal muscle separation. A tummy tuck remains the gold standard for achieving a firmer and more contoured abdomen after significant weight loss.

Can I combine other procedures with a tummy tuck after massive weight loss?

Yes, it is possible to combine other procedures with a tummy tuck after massive weight loss to achieve more comprehensive results. Popular combination procedures include liposuction to contour other areas of the body, breast lift or augmentation, and thigh or arm lift. During your consultation, we can discuss your goals and determine the most suitable treatment plan for you.