Sometimes weight loss is not enough. I see many patients who have lost hundreds of pounds, who still are not happy with their shape. If you were overweight, and lost 100 pounds, you should be very proud of yourself. It is not easily done. Whether accomplished with diet and exercise or bariatric surgery, it takes a lot of effort to change one’s lifestyle dramatically. Most patients are very happy with the weight loss. Often, however, more improvement is desired.
Where did all this skin come from?
After weight loss, the problem is no longer excess fat, but excess skin. Rolls of skin that bind at the waist. Redundant skin that drapes on the inner thighs. Flaps of skin that keep moving after the arm has stopped waving. Loose skin that can no longer support the breast and keep it on the chest.
The skin is an amazing organ. It is our greatest barrier to the outside world. It keeps us warm. It cools us down. It protects us from the elements and infection. When we gain weight, it grows, and continues to protect us. When we lose weight, it can shrink too, but there are limits. With weight gain, the skin can be stretched too far, and it cannot shrink back to its original size.
Post-Bariatric Plastic Surgery
Post-Bariatric Plastic Surgery can help. As a member of The American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, I am able to assist my patients in their transition to a happier, healthier lifestyle. By removing excess skin, an tailoring what remains, I can help complete the transformation in ways that weight loss alone cannot.
Below is part two of a discussion about post weight loss plastic surgery that originally aired on KRON4’s Body Beautiful.
This segment shows before and after pictures for liposuction, mini-tummy-tuck and tummy tuck. While most tummy tuck have only a horizontal scar that runs below the bikini line, I have included a fleur-de-leis tummy tuck. This type of tummy tuck is most often used after massive weight loss. A fleur-de-leis tummy tuck has a vertical incision in the midline in addition to the lower incision, which is used to further reduce the excess skin left after massive weight loss.
Please note, the 800 number appearing on the video is only for the live show. For more information, or to schedule a consultation appointment, please call me at (925) 943-6353, or contact me via the form on the lower left side of this web page.
Massive weight loss can lead to massive skin excess. Whether from diet and exercise, or after weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery), excess skin can mask your hard work, and still make it difficult to find clothes that fit. Post bariatric surgery can help remove and tighten excess skin and reveal your true shape after weight loss.
What is Post-Bariatric Surgery?
Post bariatric plastic surgery is a collection of modified cosmetic plastic surgery procedures designed to remove and tailor the excess skin that weight loss leaves behind. While removing extra skin also means removing extra weight, the real strength of these procedures tightening the skin to reveal your new shape.
In my San Francisco post-bariatric plastic surgery practice, I use modified cosmetic plastic surgery procedures and specialized procedures to achieve optimal results. All post-bariatric plastic surgery requires careful, in-office, consultations and planning. Safety and predictability are paramount.
Video presentations for most post-bariatric procedures can be viewed by clicking on the list below. The back and buttock lifts have many variations, and are best discussed on an individual basis. More video presentations on cosmetic plastic surgery after massive weight loss, can be viewed on the post-bariatric page of DrMele.com.
I have had the opportunity to discuss post weight loss surgery on KRON4’s Body Beautiful. Since the show is broadcast live, it allows you to call in with your questions during the show, and get them answered. Below is part 1 of 4 videos. You can find more videos on post-bariatric surgery (plastic surgery after massive weight loss) posted on the San Francisco Plastic Surgery Blog, or they may be viewed on my YouTube channel.
The 800 number appearing on the video was only for the live show, to contact my office for additional information, or to schedule a private consultation appointment, please call (925) 943-6353, or use the contact form on the lower left side of this web page.
After bariatric surgery, it is best to wait a year to allow your weight loss to stabilize. The body has time to adjust to its new physiological state, and the skin can tighten to the best of its ability. Post bariatric plastic surgery can then be tailored to the areas where the excess skin remains.
This video describes:
The differences between post-bariatric and other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures.
Why it is important to wait a year after bariatric surgery before having cosmetic plastic surgery.
Where stretch marks can be removed on the body.
How many pounds can be removed with liposuction.
Post-Bariatric Surgery (Plastic Surgery after Massive Weight Loss) Links:
Breast Augmentation Revision Surgery, has become an important area of specialization in my Walnut Creek plastic surgery practice. As many as 25% of women undergoing breast augmentation, will require a second surgery in the ten years after surgery.
Breast augmentation revision surgery may be elective, and may be performed to increase or decrease the size of your breast implants. Increasing breast implant size is one of the most common, and simplest forms of breast implant revision.
Breast implant revision surgery may be needed to replace a deflated implant or to revise the scar around the implant (capsular contracture). The major US breast implant manufacturers offer lifetime replacement of their breast implants if a breast implant deflation occurs. They also provide financial support if the breast implant leaks occur within ten years of the primary breast augmentation.
You will find videos on breast augmentation and breast augmentation revision surgery posted on the San Francisco Plastic Surgery Blog. They can be viewed here or on my YouTube channel. Please remember, the 800 number appearing on the video was only for the live show, to contact my office for additional information or to schedule a private consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
This video comes from a segment of KRON’s Body Beautiful. You can hear:
What is Breast Augmentation Revision surgery?
Who needs Breast Implant Revision surgery?
Do your silicone breast implants or saline breast implants come with a warranty?
Is there an expiration date on my breast implants?
Before and after pictures of Breast Implant Deflation Replacement Surgery?
Can breast implant asymmetry be improved?
How does Capsular Contracture present?
Can breast surgery be performed for a diabetic (a person with diabetes)?
If you are considering Breast Implant Revision Surgery in the San Francisco Bay Area, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon can help. This first step is a consultation appointment so that existing problems can be defined and achievable goals can be set.
Breast Augmentation Revision Surgery, has become a specialty unto itself. While most women will never require breast augmentation revision, a large minority will. The exact number is difficult to pin down; however, studies have indicated that in the ten years after breast augmentation, as many as 25%, will undergo a second breast augmentation related surgery.
Many times there is no complication, and the primary motivation for breast augmentation revision surgery is to change the size of the implants. Perhaps the most common breast implant revision surgery is to replace breast implants with a larger pair. This is the reason I place so much emphasis on defining the goal size for breast augmentation before surgery. Even so, minds and goals can change with time.
Other times breast implant revision surgery is less volitional, and may be due to gravity (requiring a breast lift), breast implant failure (breast implant deflation or breast implant rupture) or capsular contracture (tightening of the nature scar that surrounds the implant causing movement or firmness of the breast implants).
Other videos on this subject have been posted on the San Francisco Plastic Surgery Blog and they can be viewed here (see bottom of article for links) or on my YouTube channel. When you are watching this video, please note, the 800 number on the video was for the live show, to contact my office for additional information or to schedule a private consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
On this episode of KRON’s Body Beautiful you can learn:
What are the main reasons for Breast Augmentation Revision surgery
Do breast implants wear out?
What is the capsule around the breast implants?
What is Capsular Contracture?
How long is the Breast Implant Warranty?
How many Breast Augmentations are performed each year?
How is Breast Implant Revision Surgery performed?
What is the recovery like after Breast Augmentation Revision?
Breast Augmentation Revision Surgery requires a careful analysis of the existing problem, a thoughtful discussion about the good (and bad) aspects of all available treatments, the ability to adapt the plan to any new findings found during surgery, and a careful recovery, to speed you return to daily life. The first step is a private consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.
Considering Eyelid Surgery? It is one of the most popular cosmetic plastic surgery procedures, but in some cases, an Eyelid Lift also improves peripheral vision, by removing the excess skin which blocks sight. This video discusses the Eyelid Lift, also know as Blepharoplasty.
I have included Blepharoplasty Before and After pictures, and a discussion of what can be helped; how the procedure is performed; and what sort of recovery period is involved.
This blog entry is part 2 of a recent appearance on KRON4’s Body Beautiful with Vicki Liviakis discussing Eyelid Lift Surgery or Blepharoplasty. For part 1 click here: Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty) San Francisco – Part 1 of 2, The 800 number on the video was for the live show, to contact my office for additional information or to schedule a private consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
This segment covers:
The difference between surgical Eyelid Rejuvenation and other complementary procedures both surgical (Brow Lift) and non-surgical (Laser, Chemical Peel, Dermabrasion, and Topicals)
How do dry eyes effect Blepharoplasty?
Can Upper Eyelid Lifts and Lower Eyelid Lifts be combined?
When should Upper Eyelid Lifts and Lower Eyelid Lifts be staged?
What is the Tear Film?
Can Eyelid Surgery be performed under Local Anesthesia?
What can I expect during Eyelid Surgery recovery?
Does an Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty) hurt?
How long does Blepharoplasty last?
More questions? Please let me know. I might add them to my next show. You can send your questions to me via the Contact Form on the left, or see if they are answered here: Blepharoplasty page on DrMele.com. Thanks for staying tuned.
Blepharoplasty remains one of the most popular cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. It reduces excess skin and bags around the eyes, and allows for a more rested and alert appearance. Although there are subtle differences, it works well for both men and women, and that helps keep the procedure in the top 5 year after year.
The Eyelid Lift is a quick, outpatient procedure that can be performed under local or general anesthesia. It has a short recovery period and a minimum of discomfort. I discuss Eyelid Lift Surgery in this video of a recent appearance on KRON4’s Body Beautiful with Vicki Liviakis. The 800 number on the video was for the live show, to contact my office for additional information or to schedule a private consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
This segment reviews:
What is done during an Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)?
What can be improved with Eyelid Surgery?
What are the differences between Upper Eyelid Surgery and Lower Eyelid Surgery?
How do I to treat dry eyes around the time of Blepharoplasty?
Where are the incisions in Eyelid Rejuvenation?
Why get Eyelid Surgery?
Will insurance cover an Eyelid Lift?
Can my dog have Blepharoplasty?
Many other questions are also answered in this segment, and there is more to come. If you have additional questions, feel free use the Contact Form to the left, or check out the Blepharoplasty page on DrMele.com.
While the information here, and on my main website, DrMele.com, is provided to give you some general background information, no course of treatment can be recommended without a careful medical history, and targeted physical examination. If you are interested in rejuvenating your face, and would like to take the next step, scheduling a consultation appointment is as easy as calling (925) 943-6353. I am located in the San Francisco Bay Area, in the East Bay community of Walnut Creek.
Part 2 will follow shortly, and includes eyelid lift before and after pictures.
This is the third installment of three videos about tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) San Francisco. The original post is here just click: Common Questions About Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty). This video is from my recent appearance on KRON’s Body Beautiful, with host Vicki Liviakis.
The 800 number on the video was for the live show, to contact my office for a consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
This segment answers questions about:
How long is the recovery after a tummy tuck?
When can I lift my child?
What are the limitations on lifting after abdominoplasty?
When may I return to work after a tummy tuck?
Will a tummy tuck help low back pain?
Can a mini tummy tuck or liposuction substitute for a tummy tuck?
Do I need to wear special garments after surgery, and if so for how long?
More tummy tuck videos and general information on the abdominal rejuvination can be found on this blog by clicking on the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) link under Categories (to the left), or click here to get to the abdominoplasty page on my main web site: DrMele.com.
If you are considering a tummy tuck, or any cosmetic plastic surgery, be certain your surgeon is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. I am certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. You can check my, or any other physicians certification here: The American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Here is the second installment of three videos about tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) San Francisco. In the previous post, Common Questions About Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty), I promised to post my recent appearance on KRON’s Body Beautiful, with host Vicki Liviakis. Below is the second of three videos with information on tummy tucks, and viewer questions and answers.
The 800 number on the video was for the live show, to contact my office for a consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
This segment includes viewer questions about:
How long to wait after childbirth and bariatric surgery before having a tummy tuck?
How old is too old for a tummy tuck?
How long does a tummy tuck take?
Can other procedures be done at the same time?
Can a tummy tuck substitute for weight loss?
Does liposuction effect health?
More abdominoplasty videos and general information on the tummy tuck can be found on this blog by clicking on the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) link under Categories (to the left), or click here to get to the abdominoplasty page on my main web site: DrMele.com.
As mentioned in the previous post, Common Questions About Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty), I recently had the chance to discuss Tummy Tucks, San Francisco, on KRON’s Body Beautiful, with host Vicki Liviakis. It was a half hour live show, with information on the tummy tuck, before and after pictures, and viewer question and answer.
I have divided the show into three, ten minute segments, the first of which is included here. The 800 number on the video was for the live show, to contact my office for a consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
If you have any questions about tummy tucks, abdominoplasty, mini-abdominoplasty, liposuction or any cosmetic plastic surgery procedures, please call the office or use the contact form on this page. I will respond personally to your email. More common questions will likely appear here, as future blog entries.
This video includes two segments, The first segment covers:
Who is a good candidate for abdominoplasty?
What does a tummy tuck fix?
The second segment discusses:
Overnight stay after a tummy tuck.
Before and after pictures of several abdominoplasty patients after pregnancy and bariatic surgery and massive weight loss
How the muscle and skin are tightened.
More general information on the procedure can be found by on this blog by clicking on the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) link under Categories (to the left), or click here to get to the abdominoplasty page on my main web site: DrMele.com. Even Wikipedia has an Abdominoplasty page.
Earlier this month I had the opportunity to discuss abdominoplasty, more commonly know as the tummy tuck, live in San Francisco on KRON4’s Body Beautiful. The show is half an hour long, so I will break it up into smaller themed segments. Look for it here in the near future.
Tummy tuck before and after pictures. All three layers (skin, fat and muscle) of the abdomen are improved. Click on picture for more examples.
Many common tummy tuck questions came up during the show and even more questions were raised afterwards from the audience and in the emails that followed. The most common question asked was, “Who needs a tummy tuck?” I would like to share some of the reasons people have tummy tucks here.
First the disclaimer, when I answer general questions the answers are generally true; however, sometimes specific situations arise with an individual that leads to a different answer. While what you read on the San Francisco Plastic Surgery Blog, or on my personal web site (DrMele.com) is carefully designed to provide you with the information needed to learn about plastic surgery, it is important to actually see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon before any specific course of action can be recommended. Every patient is different, and consequently every operation is different. A vital ingredient for a beautiful plastic surgery result is individualizing the plan to suit your specific needs.
Who needs a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck tightens the abdominal wall. It improves three layers: the skin, the fat, and the muscle. The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck is in good shape and not too far from their goal weight. In order to be a candidate, you should need help in at least one of the following three areas that the surgery improves.
Loose Skin
Loose skin can be caused by pregnancy and weight loss. Both stretch the abdominal skin. If the skin is stretched too much, it cannot recoil. After pregnancy or weight loss, the skin may remain stretched and begin to hang. Unfortunately, in this situation, more weight loss does not help. Instead it leads to more loose skin.
A tummy tuck removes this loose skin from the lower abdomen, and tightens the skin that remains. This results in a smoother contour and better fitting clothes.
Excess Fat and Stretch Marks
Whenever I am removing excess lower abdominal skin, I can remove two other problems: excess fat and stretch marks. Excess fat that is below the belly button, is removed along with the excess skin. Women tend to put most the excess fat between the muscle and the skin, making it easy to remove. Men more often put excess fat behind the muscle, where it is not accessible. This internal fat must be lost with diet and exercise, and cannot be surgically removed.
Any stretch marks that are in this skin, are also removed. If the stretch marks are confined to the central abdomen below the belly button, the majority, if not all of them, can be removed with a tummy tuck.
Muscle Laxity
Babies and internal fat are behind the muscle layer of the abdominal wall. Because of this, pregnancy and weight gain also stretch the muscle layer. The muscle, and its case, can become overstretched to the point that the abdomen cannot be sucked in, not matter how strong the muscle layer. Tummy tucks allow me to tighten the case of the muscle and provide a smooth flattened foundation that can support the gut and keep it contents from pushing forwards.
If someone is significantly overweight, it is the internal fat that prevents me from being able to optimally tighten the abdominal wall. If the abdominal wall cannot be maximally tightened, abdominal fullness will remain. In this situation, additional weight loss will improve the results.
