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.
When to Consider Body Contouring
The body contouring procedures that Dr. Mosiello offers may include the following:
- Breast lifts/Mastopexy
- Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty
- Liposuction
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.
FAQ
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 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 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, 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.
