Post-bariatric surgery aims to correct sagging and deformities resulting from excessive weight loss.

Post-bariatric surgery encompasses all procedures aimed at correcting sagging and deformities in the body following significant weight loss due to obesity-related surgeries, generally referred to as bariatric surgeries. Following bariatric surgeries, sagging and deformities inevitably occur in areas such as the face, arms, breasts, back, abdomen, and legs.

Post-bariatric surgeries are performed by Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons worldwide and in our country, who specialize in post-bariatric surgery. After rapid weight loss due to obesity, sagging and deformities in areas such as the face, arms, breasts, back, abdomen, and legs are unavoidable.

Depending on the degree of sagging and the patient's discomfort, correction surgeries are divided into sessions and prioritized accordingly. In some cases, multiple surgeries can be performed in the same session. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve a natural and aesthetic appearance for the patient.

When Should Post-bariatric Surgery Be Performed?

Typically, between 12-18 months after bariatric surgery, the patient reaches their target weight. To achieve successful outcomes from post-bariatric shaping surgery, the patient must have reached their target weight and maintained it for at least three months. In some cases, especially when deformities in the abdominal area begin to restrict movement or cause hygienic concerns, surgery may be considered earlier. However, considering that these patients will continue to lose weight in the following periods, they may need secondary shaping surgeries after reaching their target weight.

How Should Surgery Planning Be Done in Post-bariatric Patients?

To minimize anesthesia-related complications and surgical complications, surgeries should be divided into sessions with intervals of at least 4-6 months between each. The initial surgery typically involves the removal of excess skin and subcutaneous fat in the abdomen, waist, and genital area, known as a belt lipectomy operation. After 4-6 months of shaping the abdomen and waist, brachioplasty (arm lift) and mastopexy (breast lift) surgeries may be performed for arm sagging and breast sagging, followed by thigh lift surgery. Finally, to address skin sagging in the face and neck and restore facial volume, face-neck lift and facial fat injection surgery should be planned.