Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu on CNN Türk: Body Contouring and the Recovery Process
The most common problem after rapid and significant weight loss is the loss of skin elasticity leading to sagging. This situation is not just an aesthetic concern; it is also a serious problem in terms of hygiene, mobility, and psychological health.
Guest on CNN Türk, Prof. Dr. Osman Kelahmetoğlu, explained the importance of body contouring surgeries, also known as post-bariatric surgery, and the processes patients are curious about.
Why Does Sagging Occur and What is the Solution?
The primary cause of sagging is not just the amount of weight lost; age, genetic factors, collagen quality, and the speed of weight loss also affect the process. Surgical intervention is the most effective solution for sagging that cannot be resolved with sports or diet after a certain point. These operations are functional and reconstructive procedures that ensure body contours are proportioned again by removing excess skin and tissue.
Commonly Performed Body Contouring Operations
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removal of sagging abdominal skin and tightening of the muscles.
- Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): Removal of sagging in the upper arm and the "bat wing" appearance.
- Thigh Lift (Cruroplasty): Cleaning of excess skin on the inner legs.
- Belt Lipectomy: A comprehensive lifting procedure covering the abdomen and back area 360 degrees.
Critical Pre-operative Evaluation
For a successful result, the patient must have reached their ideal weight and maintained this weight for at least 6 months. Before the operation, general health status, nutritional levels, and psychological preparation should be evaluated with a multidisciplinary approach. These surgeries are not just a physical change; they are a transformation process that increases the patient's self-confidence and brings their quality of life to its peak.
Contribution to Self-Confidence and Quality of Life
It is stated that the greatest contribution of these operations is not just the physical change. Reducing aesthetic concerns, regaining self-confidence, and returning to a more active social life are the most important contributions to general quality of life.