Body Contouring Procedures Increase Dramatically

Body Contouring Procedures Increase Dramatically
NEWPORT BEACH—(March 8,2009)- According to the annual statistics of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of body contouring procedures performed has dramatically increased over the past five years. Abdominoplasty, Lower Body Lift, Buttock lift experienced a 200% gain while Thigh and Upper Arm Lift experienced a 400% rise. Dr.Edward Domanskis, president of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons(ASBPS) said, “This parallels the increased number of patients that have undergone bariatric weight loss surgery.” According to Allergan, 350,000 LAP-BAND® bariatric procedures have been performed worldwide.
After these patients’ large weight loss, loose skin remains that can only be removed surgically. The abdomen, with the skin frequently hanging down like a drape hiding the belly button and pubic area, is a major problem as is excess skin of the arms, thighs, breasts, and faces. These patients seek out plastic surgeons to correct these problems. The American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons(ASBPS)was founded to help meet the needs of these patients. It is composed of plastic surgeons that specialize in body contouring after weight loss.
Debbie T, 38, lost 125 pounds after her gastric bypass. Her outward appearance left her disappointed and discouraged. She waited until her weight stabilized and then had face and body contouring. A Lower Body Lift (an Abdominoplasty and Buttock Lift) and Facial surgery were performed as a hospital inpatient. Then, several months later, she had a Breast and Upper Arm Lift and Liposuction as an outpatient. “For me, having the plastic surgery was like crossing the finish line with my weight loss journey,” said Debbie.
As gastric bypass and LAP-BAND® procedures exponentially increase, so too will body contouring operations. “Even though the number of post-bariatric patients seen by plastic surgeons has dramatically risen over the past five years, I project that our members will become overwhelmed in the coming years by these patients seeking cosmetic improvement,” said Dr. Domanskis.