How Long Is the Recovery After Extreme Weight Loss Surgery?

Losing weight is a wonderful accomplishment that deserves to be celebrated. When a significant amount of weight is lost in a short amount of time, however, it is normal to experience loose or hanging skin. When excess loose skin causes health issues and makes you feel uncomfortable, body lift surgery can get rid of these problem areas and give you slimmer-looking contours once again.

Many patients are concerned about body lift surgery because they are unsure about the recovery process. Dr. Rolando Morales is a board-certified plastic surgeon who frequently educates individuals about recovery. The professionals at Morales Plastic Surgery can also make recommendations so you can heal from body contouring without complications. Contact us in Houston, TX to learn more.

What is weight loss surgery?

People who undergo extreme weight loss experience stretched-out skin on different areas of the body. Even though this is natural, hanging skin can pose problems with regard to your personal health and body image. Excess loose skin folds can cause skin infections and rashes as well as back problems due to the weight of the tissue. These areas can be addressed through extreme weight loss surgery.

If you had bariatric surgery to lose weight, Dr. Morales will learn about your health history and work with your medical team to make sure skin removal surgery is safe for you. We only recommend this procedure for patients who have maintained a stable weight for at least six months. Following surgery, our team will provide recovery instructions in Houston, TX to make healing as seamless as possible.

Recovery from extreme weight loss surgery

It is essential to get plenty of rest after body contouring surgery. The initial recovery period may leave you feeling fatigued, which is common as your body delivers nutrients and increases blood flow to the treated areas. Getting rest supports a healthy immune system and leads to a faster recovery. Dr. Morales is proud to have developed protocols that allow patients to return to their daily lives as soon as possible.

Patients should get up several times a day to encourage healthy blood flow. We may provide a compression garment to make recovery more comfortable. Most people return work within 2 – 4 weeks following surgery. We ask that you avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about two months. Our facility can clear you for certain activities when you come in for a follow-up appointment.

Simple recovery tips and techniques

Patients can prepare for skin removal surgery in a number of ways. If you are not used to sleeping on your back, you can practice several weeks beforehand. Sleeping on your back, slightly elevated, is great for inflamed areas of the body. Cold compresses are also helpful for any swelling that occurs from body contouring. Remember to take any medications as prescribed by Dr. Morales and contact our office for any concerning side effects.

Schedule skin removal surgery

Losing weight is one of the most impressive accomplishments a person can make. If you have lost weight but struggle with excess loose skin, Morales Plastic Surgery emphasizes comprehensive and compassionate care. Dr. Rolando Morales and his professional team stay updated on the most advanced practices in extreme weight loss surgery so you can achieve great results. Contact us in Houston, TX to learn how we make your recovery safe and effective.