What Plastic Surgeons Should Know about Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

Bariatric surgery is the current standard treatment for severe obesity. A variety of procedures are currently performed, which provide durable and rapid weight loss through malabsorption, restriction, or a combination of the two. The significant amelioration of obesity-associated comorbidities has been demonstrated. Laparoscopic techniques in bariatric surgery provide patients with decreased morbidity and faster recovery, with an equivalent amount of weight loss. Weight loss is dramatic and progressive until a plateau is reached. Patients often seek the services of a plastic surgeon to remove the excess lax skin and improve the ptosis associated with such massive weight loss.