At her practice in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Jessica Belz offers surgical options for people dealing with these concerns. She is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and completed residency training in reconstructive and plastic surgery at Washington University in St. Louis and Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
Below are some signs that you might want to consider moving forward with body contouring after losing a significant amount of weight.
1. Your Weight Has Been Stable for Several Months
Reaching a goal weight doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time for surgery right away. Your body needs time to settle.
You’ll typically want to have maintained your weight for at least three to six months. Dr. Belz also recommends waiting at least 12 months after weight-loss surgery before body contouring in most cases.
Why does stability matter? Continued weight changes can stretch tissues again or lead to more loose skin. Waiting until your weight has leveled out gives you a better starting point for planning surgery.
2. Loose Skin Is Affecting Daily Life
Excess skin after weight loss isn’t only a cosmetic concern. Skin folds may make certain clothes uncomfortable, interfere with exercise, or keep you from seeing the body shape your hard work created.
Body contouring can address areas such as the abdomen, arms, breasts, and lower body. Depending on your needs, surgery may involve a tummy tuck, liposuction, breast lift, or a combination of procedures.
3. You’re Healthy Enough for Surgery
Body contouring involves major surgery, so your general well-being matters. Good candidates are typically healthy, don’t smoke, have realistic expectations, and plan to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Before surgery, you may need lab testing and clearance from your primary care doctor or another specialist. Your medications will also need to be reviewed beforehand.
4. You’re Ready for the Recovery Period
Your recovery experience varies based on which procedures you have. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity are generally restricted for about four to six weeks, although your individual timeline may differ.
You may also need compression garments for several weeks to support healing and manage swelling. Scars are an unavoidable part of surgical body contouring, though incision placement is planned with visibility in mind whenever possible.
Find Out Whether the Timing Is Right for You
Reaching a stable weight can be the point when you start thinking about what comes next. Dr. Jessica Belz will evaluate your concerns and discuss which body contouring procedures may fit your goals.
Contact her office at (210) 497-7100 to schedule a consultation in San Antonio, TX.