Medically reviewed by Gerard C. Mosiello, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon
Body contouring at Tampa Palms Plastic Surgery is a set of surgical procedures that remove loose, inelastic skin and stubborn fat after major weight loss, pregnancy or aging. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gerard Mosiello builds each plan around your body, often combining a tummy tuck, liposuction, and arm, thigh or breast lifts, at our Tampa Palms office in New Tampa, near Wesley Chapel.
Often major weight loss can lead to an excess of inelastic skin. This gives an unfair appearance to an otherwise healthy and fit body. It may be difficult to remove trouble areas of excess skin and stubborn fat deposits through traditional diet and targeted exercise.
In addition to weight loss, body contouring may treat the results of other conditions. These include pregnancy, weight gain, or simply natural aging. Genetics can also play a significant role in the development of excess skin and fat. Body contouring may involve multiple procedures, customized to specifically address your condition.
Because loose skin doesn’t shrink back on its own after major weight loss, Dr. Mosiello uses surgical skin removal and body contouring procedures to reshape the body. You can see real patient results in our body contouring before and after gallery or call 813-631-1500 to schedule a body contouring consultation.
When to Consider Body Contouring
You may be a good candidate for body contouring if you:
- Have reached a weight you can maintain (many plastic surgeons recommend waiting until your weight has been stable for several months)
- Have loose, hanging skin or fat pockets that haven’t responded to diet and exercise
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
- Don’t smoke, or are willing to quit before and after surgery
If you smoke, you may wish to quit before your surgery to improve your recovery. Your full medical history will be discussed during your consultation to determine if you are an ideal candidate for body contouring surgery.
Body Contouring Procedures by Area
Most body contouring plans combine two or more of these procedures. Dr. Mosiello may perform them in one surgery or stage them over several, depending on how many areas are treated.
| Area | Common concern | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Abdomen | Hanging skin, loose or separated abdominal muscles | Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), or a mini tummy tuck for skin below the navel |
| Abdomen, hips, thighs, arms, chin | Stubborn, localized fat | Liposuction or ultrasonic liposuction |
| Upper arms | Sagging skin and fat (“bat wings”) | Upper arm lift |
| Inner or outer thighs | Loose skin, dimpling | Thigh lift |
| Breasts | Deflated or sagging breasts | Breast lift (Mastopexy) |
| After pregnancy | Several areas at once | Mommy makeover |
Wondering how soon after weight-loss surgery you can start? Our article on the right time for body contouring after weight loss walks through it.
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Body Contouring FAQs
What are the steps of the body contouring procedure?
Each body contouring treatment plan is unique. The procedure may be performed in one surgical session or multiple surgical sessions. This depends on the extent and location of the procedures involved.
Typically, a general anesthetic is administered. Incisions are made in the appropriate areas for each procedure. These incisions are hidden within the natural lines of the body for minimal scarring.
The internal tissue is adjusted and excess fat deposits are removed. Liposuction is often used to remove excess fat deposits. The skin is stretched into a more natural position, and any excess skin is removed. The incisions are closed using fine sutures or surgical tape for minimal scarring.
How soon after weight loss can I have body contouring?
Most plastic surgeons recommend waiting until you have reached your goal and your weight has stayed stable for several months, whether you lost it through diet and exercise or bariatric surgery. Operating at a stable weight gives longer-lasting results. Dr. Mosiello will review your weight history and overall health at your consultation.
How long does recovery take following the procedure?
The recovery following body contouring varies from patient to patient. This depends on the number and extent of the surgeries performed. Typically, a bandage or compression garment may be applied to the area. This minimizes swelling and bruising.
Initially, swelling may obscure the results of the procedure. This should begin to fade in a few weeks and disappear in several months. Stitches can generally be removed in 1-3 weeks. Normal activity may be resumed in 7-10 days, and intense activity in 6-8 weeks.
Is there scarring from body contouring?
Scarring is dependent on the types of procedures used. It may vary from patient to patient for a number of factors. Typically, incision lines are hidden very carefully in natural body lines.
Internal sutures may be placed to limit the stress on external closures. Fine sutures and surgical tape may be used externally to give minimal scarring. This scarring should continue to fade for up to a year.
How long do body contouring results last?
Skin and fat that are surgically removed do not come back, so results are considered long-lasting. Keeping a stable weight helps maintain them. Natural aging, future pregnancy or significant weight gain can change your contours over time.
How much does body contouring cost in Tampa?
Cost depends on how many areas are treated, which procedures are combined, whether they are done in one surgery or staged, and anesthesia and facility fees. You’ll receive a personalized quote after your consultation. Ask our team about financing options for plastic surgery.
How will I feel after the procedure?
Discomfort following the procedure may vary greatly. This depends on the individual patient and the extent of their surgeries. Typically, some slight discomfort may be present due to swelling at the surgical sites. Pain or discomfort may be managed with prescription or over-the-counter medication.
Are there any possible complications?
Various procedures offer their own unique complications, which may include asymmetry, atypical skin pigmentation, scarring and pain. All surgeries pose a risk of poor wound healing, infection and bleeding. A full disclosure of potential complications will be part of your consultation with Dr. Mosiello.
Learn More About Body Contouring in Tampa
For more information about body contouring following weight loss, or to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Mosiello, contact the office at 813-631-1500. Our Tampa Palms plastic surgery office is conveniently located in New Tampa, near Wesley Chapel. Dr. Gerard Mosiello is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Tampa Palms, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and the entire Tampa Bay area. He has been in private practice in Tampa Palms since 2002 and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Request your body contouring consultation online.
