According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), in 2014, the demand for cosmetic procedures associated with major weight loss increased the most in four years. The rise in the number of weight loss surgeries has been accompanied by a corresponding increase in the demand for procedures such as tummy tuck and thigh, breast and upper arm lift.
In a news release, the group’s president noted that there seems to be a correlation between the two types of procedures – weight loss surgery and these cosmetic surgical treatments – and that they expect the trend to continue. Individuals who have bariatric or weight loss surgery are having cosmetic surgery to improve the results. Tucks and lifts are specifically designed to address the excess skin that is left behind after weight loss surgery. These body contouring procedures remove the sagging skin and provide a well-defined look to the body.
According to industry reports:
- About 179,000 Americans had weight-loss surgery in 2013, which was an average of nearly 500 procedures a day. This amounts to the highest number since 2009 and the third highest on record.
- In 2014, nearly 45,000 patients who experienced massive weight loss also had plastic surgery to reshape their bodies. This is the biggest single-year increase in nearly five years.
- In 2014, both thigh lifts and upper arm lifts rose 9 percent. This was found to be the largest single-year increase in five years.
- Tummy tucks rose 4 percent and breast lift surgery rose 10 percent, which was the largest single-year rise since 2009.
While a complete tummy tuck removes a considerable amount of excess fat and skin in the abdominal area, liposuction-only abdominoplasty is suitable for younger patients with elastic skin, moderate fatty deposits and good abdominal muscle tone. A total body lift can address excess skin in various areas, and lifts can also be localized to areas such as the breasts, upper arms, and thighs.
Established AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery practices in New York City offer cosmetic procedures for people who have experienced massive weight loss. Individuals considering weight loss surgery can consult a NYC plastic surgeon in advance to discuss the body contouring procedures that are available to them and get a customized solution.