What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery, often known to as weight loss surgery, is a term referring to surgeries that are intended to aid in the weight loss process for individuals who are unable to lose weight through diet and exercise. It is performed on individuals who are suffering from obesity, especially those whose bodies have adapted to their weight and are unable to lose it.
Types of bariatric surgery
There are many types of bariatric surgery, for example the gastric sleeve, gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y) and Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD-DS).
Why may a body lift be needed for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery?
Regardless of the type of bariatric surgery, an individual who has undergone any of these procedures will have lost a substantial amount of weight. Bariatric surgery is required in individuals suffering from obesity, and such individuals often suffer from overly stretched skin that is unable to return to its original shape and size after weight loss. As a result, the skin remains loose and sags from the body, which can affect self-confidence. Furthermore, loose skin can also cause issues such as rashes and infections and may even interfere with daily life as mobility can be affected by the hanging skin. As a result, one might seek to undergo surgery to tighten the skin and restore it to its original elasticity.
What does a body lift do?
Regardless of the type of bariatric surgery, an individual who has undergone any of these procedures will have lost a substantial amount of weight. Bariatric surgery is required in individuals suffering from obesity, and such individuals often suffer from overly stretched skin that is unable to return to its original shape and size after weight loss. As a result, the skin remains loose and sags from the body, which can affect self-confidence. Furthermore, loose skin can also cause issues such as rashes and infections and may even interfere with daily life as mobility can be affected by the hanging skin. As a result, one might seek to undergo surgery to tighten the skin and restore it to its original elasticity.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is an ideal candidate for this procedure?
Individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery and lost a significant amount of weight but have excess skin and fat that is unable to be lost or return to its original shape are suitable for this procedure.
How should I prepare for the surgery?
Prior to the surgery, you may need to stop taking blood thinning medication such as aspirin and ibuprofen, or other supplements. Do inform our surgeon if you are currently on such medication. Smoking and other forms of nicotine should also be avoided 4-6 weeks before surgery, as this can hinder the healing process. As you will be under general anaesthesia, you should also fast from food and liquids 6 hours before the procedure.
Are there any side effects associated with the surgery?
Expected side effects include swelling and bruising as your body heals from the surgery. As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with tummy tuck surgery. These include bleeding, infection and poor wound healing in the initial recovery period. Our surgeon will take all necessary precautions to reduce the risk of these complications. You can also minimize adverse reactions by following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments regularly.
Will this surgery leave scarring?
As the body lift is an extensive and comprehensive surgery, there will be scarring after the surgery, especially due to the size of incisions required to tighten the skin. However, our surgeon will take special care to place incisions in less visible areas to reduce the appearance of scars. These scars can fade over time, and we will advise you on how to take care of the wound for proper healing and advise on scar management after.
How long does recovery take?
In the first 1-2 weeks, you may experience pain, swelling and bruising. Mobility may also be limited, and strenuous activities must be avoided to prevent complications to healing. After 3-6 weeks, the swelling will begin to subside, and you can return to light activities such as walking or office work. The swelling will mostly subside after 1-3 months, and light exercise may be possible. Full recovery is expected to take from 6 months to a year, as your body adjusts and the new contour settles.
What is needed for post-surgical care?
Compression garments will need to be worn in the weeks following the surgery, and drains may be put in place to remove any excess fluid from your body. Medication will be provided by the clinic to help you manage any pain and swelling that may arise after the procedure. We will also advise you on the ideal methods to care for your wounds and scars, and regular follow-up appointments will be held to monitor your healing progress.
Can I file an insurance claim for this procedure?
If the body lift is done for medical reasons, our clinic will be able to assist you with direct insurance e-filing and Medisave claims.
Contact Us Today
Dr Ong is a fully accredited Singapore plastic surgeon. She currently practices at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery at Gleneagles Medical Centre, serving patients in all Parkway hospitals and Mount Alvernia Hospital. Under the competent and experienced hands of one of the best female plastic surgeons in Singapore, you can be assured of quality care and treatment.
