What it is:

Removal of excess skin from the abdomen/breasts/arms/thighs after the loss of a large amount of weight

People with loose or excess skin after weight loss

* 2 to 6 hours, depending on the amount and type of surgery

General

For procedures lasting more than 6 hours, an overnight stay will be required; for shorter procedures, overnight stays will be decided on a case-by-case basis

Depending upon the amount of surgery performed, 1 to 2 weeks is adequate for most people

  • Return immediately to non-strenuous activities which do not raise your heart rate or blood pressure, and won’t result in breaking into a sweat
  • Resume strenuous activities in 2 weeks (with the exception of heavy lifting if abdominal surgery has been performed)
  • No heavy lifting (more than 10 pounds) for 6 weeks if abdominal surgery has been performed
  • Some aspects of body contouring are covered by insurance, including:
    • Removal of excess abdominal skin in patients who get rashes beneath their overhanging abdominal skin and have skin that hangs to the level of the pubic bone
    • Breast surgery after massive weight loss is covered only if it is done as a breast reduction; insurance requirements for breast reduction will apply
  • Removal of excess skin from the arms and thighs is most often not covered by insurance
  • You will need to wear compression garments for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery performed on the arms/legs/ abdomen
  • You will need to wear a sports bra day and night for 4 weeks after breast surgery, then wear a comfortable bra during the day for 8 additional weeks
  • You may shower 48 hours after surgery
  • There are often no stitches to remove

* Times may vary since each case is unique

** Check with your health care provider about your specific restrictions