What is Post Bariatric Surgery?

Post Bariatric Surgery

Post bariatric surgery is the general name of aesthetic operations applied for excess skin sagging that occurs in the body after obesity. This condition, which occurs when the skin loses its former elasticity after excessive weight loss, can negatively affect both the physical and psychological health of people. These surgeries, which are applied with modern plastic surgery techniques, offer an important solution to improve the quality of life of patients and help them regain their self-confidence.

Today, some reasons such as city life, transportation vehicles, desk work, eating habits bring along the problem of obesity. This leads to deformities and some deformations in the body. There are non-surgical and surgical solutions to get rid of excess weight. Non-surgical solutions are usually based on the combination of diet and exercise programs with some non-invasive devices developed for this purpose. Although these methods can work in patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30-35, success rates are low in patients with high BMI. In recent years, patients with high BMI can be treated very successfully with bariatric surgery.

No matter how patients with borderline obesity lose weight, sagging may occur in some body parts. These areas include the abdomen, breast, inner thighs, arms, back, buttocks and face.

Post Bariatric Surgery Operations

Post bariatric surgeries are a series of aesthetic surgical procedures performed to correct sagging and excess tissues in the body after obesity treatment. These operations are performed to reshape the body contours of people who have experienced severe weight loss and to restore their normal appearance.

It basically includes the following procedures:

  • Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
  • Arm lift (brachioplasty)
  • Thigh lift
  • Breast lift and augmentation
  • Back stretching
  • Butt lift and shaping
  • Face and neck lift

It is not possible to perform all of the above-mentioned surgeries in a single session. Post-bariatric surgery is the general name for combined surgeries in which multiple surgeries are performed in sessions with certain combinations. The sessions are planned in consultation with the doctor and the patient, according to the priority of the patient and the surgeries are planned to be compatible with each other. When planning the sessions, one surgery is usually selected from the upper part of the body and the other from the lower part. Sessions are planned with at least 3 months between each session.

Generally preferred session combinations are as follows:

  1. Session: Starting post bariatric surgery sessions with tummy tuck surgery is usually the preferred approach. After excessive weight loss, abdominal skin sagging, abdominal muscle laxity and diastasis may occur. These deformities can be corrected with abdominoplasty. If there is sagging in the buttocks along with tummy tuck and the patient has a request in this regard, tummy tuck can be combined with butt lift. This combination is also called lower body lift, belt lipectomy or 360 lifting. The second area that can be combined with tummy tuck is the arm area. Weight gain and loss can cause sagging in the arm area and create an extremely uncomfortable appearance. Tummy tuck surgeries can be combined with arm lift in patients who do not have a demand for buttocks. Since the excess skin in the arm area cannot be hidden, especially in the summer months, patients can get rid of this discomfort with this surgery.

  2. Session: In this session, breast lift is primarily planned. One of the areas most affected by excessive weight gain and loss is the breast. Breast lift surgeries are performed to treat laxity in the breast skin and to give the breast back its lost shape. If necessary, breast augmentation surgery can also be performed together with breast lift. If there is sagging in the back area, it can be addressed in this session. Back lift is one of the surgeries that can be combined with breast surgeries. One of the areas that can be addressed in this session is the thigh area. One of the most dramatic effects of weight gain and loss is experienced in this area. Excess skin, especially in the inner thigh area, also affects the social lives of patients. With thigh lift, patients get rid of this excess skin and become more self-confident.

  3. Session: Surgeries or facelift procedures that cannot be performed in the above sessions are added to this session.

These surgeries are usually:

  • After bariatric surgery
  • After excessive weight loss by natural means
  • Applied on average 6 months after reaching the target weight

Why Post Bariatric Surgery is Preferred?

Post bariatric surgery offers solutions to many physical and psychological problems faced by people who have experienced significant weight loss. Although losing weight is a successful step, sagging skin tissues on the body can make daily life difficult and negatively affect a person's self-confidence.

The main reasons why these surgeries are preferred:

  • Prevention of hygiene problems
  • Increased mobility
  • Reduced risk of skin infections
  • Elimination of difficulties in clothing selection
  • Regaining self-confidence
  • Making body contours proportionate

Situations that need special attention:

  • Achieving the target weight
  • Stabilization of weight loss
  • General health status is appropriate
  • Smoking cessation

How Does the Process Work in Post Bariatric Surgery?

Post bariatric surgery involves a detailed planning and preparation period. In the first stage, the surgeon assesses the patient's general health and determines which areas will be intervened. Extensive tests and examinations are performed before the operations.

The stages of the process are as follows:

  • Initial Consultation
  • Detailed examination
  • Photography
  • Assessment of expectations
  • Preoperative Preparation
  • Blood tests
  • Required imaging
  • Medicines regulation
  • Operation Process
  • General anesthesia
  • Intervention in designated areas
  • Operation lasting between 3-8 hours
  • First Recovery
  • 1-3 days hospitalization
  • Drain monitoring
  • Pain control

What is the Recovery Process After Post Bariatric Surgery?

The post bariatric surgery recovery process varies according to the general health status of the patient and the extent of the operations performed. The first week begins with the patient being closely monitored in the hospital. Edema and mild pain are expected during this period and are controlled with painkillers. Patients usually wear specially designed corsets and have regular dressing changes.

Important points to be considered during the recovery process:

  • Regular medical check-ups should be made during the first month and recommended medications should be used without interruption
  • Return to daily activities should be gradual and overstrain should be avoided
  • Wound care and hygiene rules should be observed

At the end of three months, edema is greatly reduced and the body begins to take its new shape. At the end of six months, patients can start sports activities and the final results of the surgery are clearly visible. For a successful recovery, it is critical not to interrupt the doctor's controls and to follow the recommendations given.

What Should Be Considered After Post Bariatric Surgery?

After a successful post bariatric surgery, it is important to follow some rules to ensure that the results obtained are permanent and to prevent complications. First of all, healthy eating habits should be maintained and weight control should be ensured in the postoperative period. Preventing sudden weight gain and loss is critical to preserve the results of the surgery.

The main points to be aware of:

  • Stick to a regular exercise program, but avoid heavy sports for the first 6 months
  • It is important to protect the scars from sunlight and to use the recommended creams regularly
  • Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided

Adopting a healthy lifestyle in the postoperative period is the most important factor for long-term success. Regular medical check-ups should not be interrupted and in case of any unusual situation, consult a physician. In addition, one should not hesitate to seek psychological support and, if necessary, seek help from a specialist. It is important to be patient and have realistic expectations when adapting to body changes.

What are the Benefits of Post Bariatric Surgery?

Post-bariatric surgery procedures play an important role in helping a person adjust to their new body weight. These surgeries not only correct aesthetic appearance, but also contribute to physical and mental health.

  • Proportional correction of body contours
  • Facilitation of personal care and cleaning
  • Gaining freedom in clothing choice
  • Reduced risk of skin infections
  • Making physical activities more comfortable
  • Regaining self-confidence
  • Improved social life
  • Increased performance at work

Who is Post Bariatric Surgery Suitable for?

Post bariatric surgery is suitable for people who have experienced significant weight loss after a successful bariatric surgery and have excess skin on their body. Candidates should be in good general health and have the living conditions to support postoperative recovery. If weight loss has been achieved through bariatric surgery, it is common for this group of patients to have low blood values. It is very important to have blood tests done in advance, to detect conditions such as anemia and mineral deficiencies in this way and to treat them before surgery.

  • Those who have lost excessive amounts of weight and have sagging in their body
  • Stable weight for the last 6 months
  • Non-smokers or quit smokers
  • Those who adopt healthy eating habits
  • Those who exercise regularly
  • Those with chronic diseases under control
  • Patients between the ages of 18-65

Who Is Not Suitable for Post Bariatric Surgery?

Post-bariatric surgery may pose risks or reduce the chances of success for some patient groups. These operations are not recommended especially for people whose general health condition is not suitable for surgery. A detailed assessment of each patient is essential.

  • Active smokers
  • Those with uncontrolled chronic diseases
  • People with serious heart and lung problems
  • Those who continue to lose weight
  • Patients with coagulation disorders
  • Those with a weak immune system
  • Mothers planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • People with unrealistic expectations

Is Post Bariatric Surgery a Permanent Solution?

Post bariatric surgery outcomes are directly related to the patient's lifestyle and compliance with the recommended guidelines. Surgery offers a permanent solution, but the patient must fulfill their responsibilities to maintain the results in the long term. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle increase success.

  • Maintaining healthy eating habits
  • Continuing a regular exercise program
  • Maintaining ideal weight
  • Taking care of skin care
  • Adequate water consumption
  • Use of vitamin and mineral supplements
  • Continuing regular medical check-ups

What are the Prices of Post Bariatric Surgery?

Post bariatric surgery prices vary according to the scope of the procedure, the needs of the patient and the preferred health institution. Factors such as type of surgery, length of hospital stay and materials to be used are taken into consideration when pricing.

  • Surgical site and number
  • Length of hospital stay
  • Type and duration of anesthesia
  • Hospital type (private/public)
  • Surgeon's experience and expertise
  • Techniques and materials used
  • SSI coverage status
  • Private insurance agreements
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