Restore Your Shape After Significant Weight Loss
Significant weight loss—whether achieved through lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery, or GLP-1 medications—can leave behind loose skin, volume loss, and changes in body and facial contours. Dr. Gregory Wiener of Chicago, IL performs post weight loss surgery to help patients address these concerns and better reflect the progress they’ve made.
Post weight loss surgery focuses on reshaping areas most affected by major weight changes. At The Art of Plastic Surgery, this approach has become a common choice for patients who are near their goal weight but feel limited by excess skin or stubborn contour irregularities.
A post weight loss surgery can involve a combination of:
Candidates for a Post Weight Loss Surgery
The best way to determine candidacy is through an in-office consultation at The Art of Plastic Surgery in Chicago, IL. During this visit, Dr. Wiener will evaluate areas affected by weight loss, such as the abdomen, breasts, face, and overall body contour.
Good candidates typically:
- Have achieved and maintained significant weight loss
- Are close to their long-term target weight
- Have loose or sagging skin that does not improve with exercise
- Are in good overall health
Some procedures may be performed together, while others may be staged depending on individual goals and anatomy.
What To Expect During Your Consultation
Consultations with Dr. Wiener are collaborative and focused on your goals. He will review the areas you want to address and explain which procedures may be appropriate based on your body and skin quality.
This appointment is also a time to discuss recovery expectations, surgical planning, and Dr. Wiener’s background and experience. The goal is to give you clear information so you can decide whether surgery fits your plans
Preparing for Post Weight Loss Surgery
Before surgery, patients must stop blood-thinning medications and most supplements at least one week in advance. Smoking must be stopped for at least two weeks before and after surgery, as it negatively affects healing.
Preparation also includes planning for recovery. You should arrange a comfortable space at home, fill prescriptions ahead of time, and have help available for daily activities during the first one to two weeks. Because abdominal surgery is often involved, limited mobility should be expected early on.
What Does Post Weight Loss Surgery Involve?
Post weight loss surgery is individualized and may include one or more of the following procedures:
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
After major weight loss, abdominal skin often lacks the ability to tighten on its own. A tummy tuck removes excess skin and may tighten the abdominal muscles to create a flatter, firmer midsection. Incisions are placed low on the abdomen to remain discreet under clothing.
For patients with excess skin limited to the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck may be an option. This procedure uses a shorter incision than a full tummy tuck and is sometimes combined with liposuction for added contouring. Recovery time and discomfort are often reduced compared to more extensive abdominal surgery.
Liposuction
Even at a stable weight, localized fat deposits can remain resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction is used to contour areas such as the abdomen, flanks, hips, thighs, or back to improve overall shape.
Breast Enhancement Surgery
Weight loss can significantly reduce breast volume. Breast enhancement surgery using implants can restore fullness and improve breast proportion for patients seeking increased size or upper breast fullness.
Breast Lift Surgery
In addition to volume loss, breasts may appear lower or elongated after weight loss. A breast lift removes excess skin and reshapes the breast tissue, repositioning the breasts and nipples to a higher, more balanced position.
Mid-Face (Cheek) Lift
Weight loss can cause sagging or hollowing in the cheek area. A mid-face lift repositions the cheeks to improve facial structure and balance.
Face Lift & Neck Lift
Loose skin in the lower face and neck is common after significant weight changes. A face and neck lift tightens underlying tissue and removes excess skin to improve jawline definition and neck contour.
Body Lift
For patients with widespread skin laxity affecting multiple areas, a body lift may be recommended. This procedure addresses excess skin of the abdomen, hips, thighs, and lower back in a single operation.
Post Weight Loss Recovery
Initial recovery typically involves 10–14 days of limited activity at home. Light movement is encouraged, but lifting and strenuous activity must be avoided. Over the following weeks, patients gradually return to daily routines.
Light exercise may resume around weeks five to six, with full activity typically allowed by week eight, pending clearance from Dr. Wiener.
Why Combine Procedures Into One Surgery?
Post weight loss surgery allows multiple areas to be addressed during one operation. This means a single recovery period rather than several separate ones, along with one exposure to anesthesia. For many patients, this approach is more practical than spacing procedures out over time.
Is Post Weight Loss Surgery Covered by Insurance?
Post weight loss surgery is considered elective and is not covered by insurance. Financing options are available through The Art of Plastic Surgery.
Risks of Post Weight Loss Surgery
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots, anesthesia reactions, and wound healing concerns. Certain procedures carry specific risks, which will be reviewed in detail during your consultation.
Dr. Wiener is board certified in plastic surgery and a member of the American College of Surgeons, which supports patient safety and surgical planning.
Will Post Weight Loss Surgery Lead to Weight Loss?
Surgery length depends on the number and type of procedures performed. Most post weight loss surgeries last between 3 and 5 hours. Combining procedures requires careful planning to prioritize patient safety.
When Can I Return to Work?
Most patients return to non-strenuous work within 2 to 4 weeks. Jobs that require physical labor may need a longer recovery period. Follow-up visits allow Dr. Wiener to monitor healing and determine when work activities can resume.
Will I Need Help at Home After Surgery?
Yes. Assistance at home is strongly recommended during the initial recovery period. Help with daily activities and household tasks can reduce strain and support proper healing.
Why Choose The Art of Plastic Surgery?
The Art of Plastic Surgery is led by Dr. Gregory Wiener, a board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American College of Surgeons. He provides individualized post weight loss surgery planning for patients who want their bodies to better reflect their weight loss progress.
Procedures are performed in a modern surgical setting on the northwest side of Chicago, with a focus on patient safety, comfort, and personalized care.
To learn more about post weight loss surgery in Chicago, call 773.763.3990 to schedule a consultation.