Though obesity has become an epidemic in this country, it is not a condition that most people aspire to become. The consequences of being massively overweight can exert a great toll emotionally, physically and physiologically. This can range from an increased risk of hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, infections, and cancer to poor self esteem, sexual dysfunction and disabling depression. Engaging in even the mildest of physical activities can be extremely difficult, embarrassing and exhausting.
Obesity, therefore, has few positives associated with it unless one uses a little creativity…
In a bizarre story, two women recently deployed their prodigious layers of fat and large pendulous breasts for evil purposes – to steal clothing from a store. They attempted to hide several pairs of boots, gloves and other items under their breasts and in body fat folds in a failed shoplifting attempt. The purported total value of the items sequestered was around $2600 – an amazing amount particularly since this occurred in a (discount) T.J Maxx store and not a Neiman-Marcus or Nordstrom.
I do see many people who have lost a significant amount of weight, often 100 pounds or more. Some have achieved their success by diligent dieting and exercise. Others pursue weight loss procedures such as lap banding or gastric bypass surgery. Nevertheless, what they are left with are massive amounts of excess skin that is circumferential and often hangs down in layers. This less than attractive sight is often not what they had expected to be left with following their successful weight loss.
Fortunately, there are a variety of plastic surgery procedures that can effectively address this post massive weight loss appearance problem and which I offer to my patients. They can be performed in a variety of combinations depending on each person’s particular needs and desires. Some of the more common of these surgical procedures include a tummy tuck, belt lipectomy (circumferential removal of skin from the abdomen and back), inner and outer thigh lifts, breast reduction, and arm lifts (brachioplasty).
These plastic surgery procedures not only can help patients obtain a much more attractive appearance and body contour but can also allow them to be much more active with little or no physical restrictions (as had been related to their weight or excess skin previously). My patients have indicated that they have had a marked improvement in self-esteem following surgery and a much more positive attitude and outlook.
If you would like to obtain information on plastic surgery procedures that can help address the excess skin that you have been left with following massive weight loss such as for a tummy tuck, belt lipectomy, breast reduction, or an arm lift, please call my office at 480-451-3000. We would also be happy to schedule a complimentary consultation for you if you desire.
Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona