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What is body contouring surgery?

Significant weight loss, whether achieved through weight loss surgery or lifestyle changes, offers numerous benefits. However, it often results in excess skin due to the tissues lacking elasticity. The skin, stretched around the original excess weight, is does not reduce when the underlying fat is lost. These large skin excesses can detract from the newly attained body size.

Surgical body contouring procedures following substantial weight loss aim to address this issue by removing excess sagging skin and fat, while enhancing the shape of underlying support tissues. The outcome is a more proportionate appearance with smoother contours.

Body contouring procedures may encompass:

  • Arm lift: Correcting sagging of the upper arms.
  • Breast lift: Addressing sagging and flattening of the breasts.
  • Facelift: Rectifying sagging of the mid-face, jowls, and neck.
  • Lower body lifts: Addressing sagging of the abdomen, buttocks, inner and outer thighs.
  • Medial thigh lift: Correcting sagging of the inner thigh.
  • Tummy tuck: Addressing the apron of excess skin hanging over the abdomen.

Who is a suitable candidate for body contouring surgery?

In general, ideal candidates for body contouring are:

  • Adults whose weight loss has stabilized.
  • Healthy individuals without medical conditions that hinder healing or increase surgery risks.
  • Non-smokers.
  • Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals.
  • Those committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and fitness.

What can I expect during my consultation?

During your body contouring consultation, you should be prepared to discuss various aspects of the procedure, including:

  • Your surgical objectives.
  • Medical history, including conditions, drug allergies, and prior treatments.
  • Current medications, supplements, and lifestyle habits.
  • Previous surgeries.

Your plastic surgeon will:

  • Evaluate your overall health and any preexisting conditions or risk factors.
  • Perform a thorough examination of your body and take detailed measurements.
  • Capture photographs for your medical record.
  • Discuss treatment options and recommend a suitable course of action.
  • Address potential outcomes, risks, and complications associated with body contouring.

The success and safety of the procedure depend on your openness during the consultation. Feel free to ask questions and express any concerns you may have. It’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the procedure, and your plastic surgeon is there to provide guidance and support throughout the process.

What questions should I ask my plastic surgeon about Body Contouring surgery?

  • Are you vocationally registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand as a specialist plastic surgeon?

  • Are you a member of the New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons?

  • Will the procedure be conducted in a hospital or office-based setting, and is the facility accredited for this type of surgery?

  • What type of anaesthesia is needed for this procedure?

  • Based on my medical history and condition, is surgery the best option for me? If so, am I a suitable candidate for this surgery?

  • Which surgical technique do you recommend for my case, and why?

  • What are the realistic expectations for the outcome of this procedure in my case?

  • What steps or lifestyle changes are necessary for me to get the best result from my surgery?

  • What is the anticipated duration of recovery, and what assistance will I need during this period?

  • What potential risks and complications are associated with this procedure? How would you manage these should they arise?

  • How will my results change over time?

  • If I’m unhappy with the outcome, what recourse options are available?

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Disclaimer: This website is intended to provide you with general information only. This information is not a substitute for advice from your Specialist Plastic Surgeon and does not contain all the known facts about this procedure or every possible side effect of surgery. It is important that you speak to your surgeon before deciding to undergo surgery. If you are not sure about the benefits, risks and limitations of treatment, or anything else relating to your procedure, ask your surgeon to explain. Patient information provided as part of this website is evidence-based, and sourced from a range of reputable information providers including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Better Health Channel and Mi-tec medical publishing.

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