Dr. Zachary Farris performs post-weight-loss surgery at Farris Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX. He is certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. During his academic career at Albert Einstein College of Medicine’s Montefiore program, he started the institution’s Body Contouring Program.
Why Loose Skin Can Remain After GLP-1 Weight Loss
Skin can stretch as body size increases. After significant weight loss, it doesn’t always have enough elasticity to contract around your smaller frame. The amount of loose skin you have depends on factors like how much weight you’ve lost, how long the skin was stretched, your age, genetics, and skin quality.
GLP-1 medication changes how you lose weight, but it doesn’t change the basic role of post-weight-loss surgery. Body contouring isn’t a weight-loss procedure. It removes hanging skin and, when appropriate, remaining localized fat once your weight is relatively steady.
Which Procedures May Fit Your Concerns?
Post-weight-loss surgery may involve one area or several. Dr. Farris performs procedures such as:
- Tummy tuck: Removes loose abdominal skin and can tighten stretched abdominal muscles.
- Arm lift: Removes hanging skin from the upper arms.
- Thigh lift: Removes loose tissue around the thighs.
- Breast lift: Raises sagging breasts, with implants added in some cases.
- Liposuction: Removes localized fat when skin quality and the surgical plan allow it.
When several areas need attention, procedures are often staged rather than completed all at once.
When Is It Time for Surgery?
Your weight should be stable before post-weight-loss body contouring. Farris Plastic Surgery includes at least six months of weight stability and a BMI below 35 as part of its candidacy criteria. Smoking also interferes with healing, so smokers aren’t considered candidates, and nicotine should be stopped for at least one month before surgery.
Nutrition also matters after major GLP-1 weight loss. Reduced calorie intake sometimes makes it harder to get enough protein, vitamins, and minerals needed for healing. Nutritional screening may be part of preparing for body contouring so providers can identify deficiencies before surgery.
Still taking a GLP-1 medication? Tell your surgeon and anesthesia team. Current perioperative guidance doesn’t require everyone to stop these medications before surgery. Instructions will likely vary based on factors such as gastrointestinal symptoms, whether you’re increasing your dose, your current dose, and other conditions that slow stomach emptying.
Learn More About Body Contouring in Dallas
Your anatomy and health determine which procedures make sense after weight loss. To discuss your options with Dr. Zachary Farris at Farris Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX, contact us or call 214-363-1073.
