Post-Bariatric
Achieving significant weight loss is an impressive accomplishment. However, men and women who experience dramatic weight loss, either through bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, often find that reaching their weight loss goal is associated with unexpected excess and loose skin in several areas of the body. In addition to his training and extensive involvement in several medical and surgical organizations, Dr. Ramin Behmand is also an active member of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons. He frequently performs secondary surgical procedures for his post-bariatric and massive weight-loss patients. These procedures include arm lift, breast lift, lower body lift, tummy tuck, blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty, and more.
When you visit our office for your initial consultation, Dr. Behmand will review your weight loss and medical history. During this appointment, he will discuss your main goals and customize a surgical treatment specific to your needs.
Post Bariatric Procedures FAQ’s
- Should I be at my ultimate goal weight before having a post-bariatric procedure?
- It is ideal to be at your ultimate goal or at least within 10-15 pounds of your goal weight.
- What procedures are typically involved with a post-bariatric surgery?
- Post-bariatric procedures can include an abdominoplasty, lower body lift, liposuction, brachioplasty (arm lift surgery), breast augmentation, mastopexy (breast lift), or breast reduction. Some patients will even address facial procedures if they have a loss of facial volume or excess facial skin after their weight loss.
- Will my post-bariatric surgery be painful?
- As with most procedures, you will experience some discomfort for the first few days following surgery. This discomfort can be managed with prescription medication or long acting anesthetics, which can be used during the procedure.
- Will insurance cover a post-bariatric procedure?
- Insurance will not cover most post-bariatric procedures as they are considered elective. In rare circumstances, insurance might cover the removal of excess skin of the abdomen if you are experiencing rashes and discomfort. This is not an abdominoplasty, but rather the removal of the portion of skin which is causing the rash or functional problems. If this is covered by your insurance, Dr. Behmand will usually combine it with a cosmetic abdominoplasty for best results. The abdominoplasty will not be covered by insurance, but a small portion of the anesthesia and surgery center fees could be covered by insurance for the removal of excess skin.
- How long should I wait after gastric bypass surgery to have a post-bariatric procedure?
- The timing varies for each patient and is sometimes dependent on your final weight loss goal. In most circumstances, patients will wait at least 1 year after their gastric bypass procedure to reach a stable weight.
- How much will a post-bariatric procedure cost?
- Since a post-bariatric procedure can include a combination of many different procedures, we will not know your cost until you have an initial consultation with Dr. Behmand. He will evaluate you to address your concerns, and come up with a treatment plan that can achieve the best possible results. After your consultation, you will be provided with a comprehensive quote, which includes surgical fees, surgery center costs, and anesthesia.
- Will a post-bariatric procedure involve an overnight stay in the surgery center?
- Some patients might require an overnight stay. This will be determined by Dr. Behmand during your initial consultation.
Below, you will find links to guide you in learning more about the post-bariatric surgical procedures offered at our office. We encourage you to read further and contact our office with questions and to schedule your initial consultation.