Loose Skin & Muffin Top After ETT (photo)

Massive weight patients often require a revisional procedure following an abdominoplasty. In fact, many plastic surgeons will stage the abdominoplasty first knowing that a revision will be necessary at the time of the breast or upper body procedure. The bottom line is that the elasticity and natural contraction of the skin is lost following massive weight loss. Overtightening of the abdomen can lead to numerous problems with skin necrosis, poor wound healing, and large scars. Being conservative can avoid the larger problems, but can lead to issues with laxity and loose skin following surgery. This is why the consultation process is so important! Educating patients on the expectations following surgery and the possibility of revisional surgery is critical, particularly in the post-massive weight loss patient.

If you lost a large amount of weight and have skin that isn't elastic, thn it is possible that the skin has not tightened as you would expect and you will need a revision. I would personally prefer to have the abdominal issues straightened away before proceeding to the breast augment/lift as it will be difficult for you to make a decision about implant size with your abdomen in its current situation. Also, this is a cautionary tale. You could experience similar sagging after breast surgery as well and this may be a reason to undergo a mastopexy alone rather than implant insertion which could exacerbate the laxity of the skin.