Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need/want this service?
A person who has lost a significant amount of weight and is bothered by the presence of excess skin will be a good candidate for body contouring. It is important that your weight loss has stabilized before you undergo this procedure and that you are confident you can maintain your new weight going forward. Candidates should be physically healthy and not smoke.
What to expect if I get this done?
If you have had significant weight loss, your results from body contouring will be visible almost immediately. However, the healing process takes time, and it can take two years or more to see the final results. The results of this procedure are generally long-lasting, but you will likely see some subtle changes in firmness simply due to the natural aging process.
What should I expect before my procedure?
A consultation with one of our surgeons will be the best way to determine if you are a candidate for body contouring and what procedures will be needed to help obtain your desired results. You will get to review before and after pictures of other patients with similar body types to get an idea of what your result may look like. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and the time it takes will depend on the procedures in your custom package.
What should I expect after my surgery?
Your incisions will be covered in dressings or bandages, and a slim tube may be placed under the skin to provide drainage temporarily. You will receive instructions to follow at home and prescriptions for medication, and schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. You should expect to limit activity and avoid bending, straining or lifting soon after your surgery. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully.
Is an overnight stay offered?
Unique to UTMB, an overnight stay in our modern, state-of-the-art hospitals is an option that many other surgeons do not offer. An overnight stay can be added for an additional fee and can alleviate the need for transportation and hotel arrangements immediately after your procedure. Additionally, you will have trained nursing and medical staff watching over you the first night and will watch to ensure that drains are functioning, help change dressings and any pain or discomfort is professionally managed.
Can this be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Common surgeries combined with a body contouring procedure include liposuction, breast augmentation or breast lift. Other body contouring procedures can also be done at the same time. Schedule a consult with one of our surgeons to determine what is the best approach for you.