Abdominoplasty is an ally in restoring self-esteem for those who have lost weight after bariatric surgery

Abdominoplasty, a plastic surgery performed on the abdomen, is among the five most performed in the world, according to a survey by the Plastic Surgery Statistics Report.

Indicated when there is an excess of skin and fat in this region, abdominoplasty is much more than just tightening the belly; the surgery can be performed concomitantly with corrections of abdominal wall hernias and rectus abdominis muscle repair (diastasis).

Generally, we recommend abdominoplasty reconstructively when the excess skin and fat forms an apron, which can cover the genitalia. This can be common after bariatric surgery or in patients with significant weight loss, offering an alternative to reconstruct the patient's quality of life and self-esteem.

For people who have undergone bariatric surgery, it is recommended that abdominoplasty be performed when weight has been stable for a period of six months, usually occurring two years after the initial surgery.

Recovery from abdominoplasty surgery can take from two weeks to a month, depending on each patient.

There are no health risks for those who have undergone abdominoplasty and subsequently become pregnant; however, the aesthetic result may be compromised after the baby's birth.

*Dr. Fernando Amato is a plastic surgeon, full member of the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery, member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), and of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).