Post Massive Weight Loss
Following significant weight loss, many individuals find themselves with excess skin and tissue that does not conform to their reduced body size. Dr. Azizi in Chicago offers a comprehensive approach to post-massive weight loss body contouring, helping patients achieve a more natural and toned appearance. This typically involves a series of surgeries, with a common order being a tummy tuck first, followed by breast surgery, and then procedures for the arms and thighs. However, the specific plan can vary based on the patient’s priorities and goals.
Who is a Candidate for Post Massive Weight Loss Body Contouring?
You might be a candidate for body contouring with Dr. Azizi if you:
- Have achieved significant weight loss through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes.
- Experience discomfort, hygiene issues, or limitations in activity due to excess skin.
- Are in good overall health, with no medical conditions that impair healing.
- Have a positive outlook and realistic expectations about the outcomes of body contouring surgery.
Initial Consultation with Dr. Azizi
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where Dr. Azizi will discuss your vision for body contouring. During this initial consultation, he will:
- Review your medical history, including details about your weight loss, current health status, any previous surgeries, and any medications you are taking.
- Conduct a comprehensive physical examination to assess the areas of concern and determine the best approach for achieving your desired results.
- Discuss the potential stages of your body contouring process, starting typically with a tummy tuck, followed by breast adjustments, and finally addressing the arms and thighs, though this sequence may be customized.
Preparing for the Procedure
Dr. Azizi will guide you through preparing for each stage of your body contouring journey, including:
- Temporarily stopping certain medications to minimize bleeding risks.
- Implementing lifestyle adjustments, such as stopping smoking well before the surgery and avoiding alcohol, to facilitate better healing.
- Eating a balanced diet to support recovery.
- Organizing practical aspects of your recovery, including time off work, help at home, and transportation after surgery.
During the Procedures
Each body contouring procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The process starts typically with a tummy tuck to remove excess skin and tighten the abdominal area. This is followed by breast lift or augmentation to address changes in volume and position. Procedures to remove excess skin from the arms (brachioplasty) and thighs (thigh lift) may follow, based on the individual’s specific needs and recovery timeline.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
After each procedure, you will receive detailed care instructions from Dr. Azizi, including how to manage dressings, medications to take, and how to best position yourself while sleeping and resting to ensure optimal healing. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Azizi are crucial for monitoring your progress and ensuring the best possible outcome.
The recovery process varies depending on the extent of surgery and the individual’s health. Dr. Azizi is committed to supporting you through each step of your recovery, offering advice and adjustments to your postoperative care plan as needed to achieve the best results.
Dr. Azizi’s approach to post massive weight loss body contouring is holistic and personalized, focusing on achieving results that align with your goals and enhancing your overall quality of life after significant weight loss.