While the weight loss is highly appreciated by the patient following a gastric restrictive procedure, the excess saggy skin that usually develops is not welcome. This excess skin can result in difficulty fitting into clothes as well as persistent rashes, amongst other functional issues. The best way to alleviate symptoms related to excess skin is to resect the skin through an incision similar to a traditional abdominoplasty, or instead may require an extension completely around the body to connect the abdomen and the back (circumferential abdominoplasty). In other circumstances, additional skin removal may be performed through further techniques.

The laxity of the abdominal wall, as in a traditional abdominoplasty, is routinely addressed. In addition to repairing the abdominal contour, a circumferential abdominoplasty can help reshape the hips, thighs, and buttocks. Based upon the extent of the patient’s functional deficits with the excess skin, insurance may occasionally cover a portion of the procedure.

For more information on circumferential abdominoplasty, please click here.