Post Bariatric

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Congratulations!
  You have come a long way on your journey to good health, increased physical activity, and beauty.  You have probably had dreams come true as you’ve experienced the joys of losing massive amounts of weight, among them investing in a new wardrobe; and yet you may still be unhappy with the image you see in your mirror.

A successful weight loss patient has skin issues that are unique to them.  They are often discouraged by the fruits of their “weight-loss” labors!  The Post Bariatric body is like a balloon that has been slowly deflated, becomes saggy, loose and misshapen.  That’s why nearly 100,000 people in the U.S. have Post Bariatric Plastic Surgery annually.

With the NVPS Program, you can find the help you need to finish the journey and receive that beautifully contoured body that you have been seeking. Steven M. Gitt, M.D., F.A.C.S. has helped hundreds of Post Bariatric patients.  He understands your unique circumstances and has developed a comprehensive program especially for you; involving: Safety, Support, Education, Nutrition and Patient Satisfaction.

Body contouring after major weight loss usually involves multiple procedures to achieve the desired appearance.  Dr. Gitt will listen carefully to your goals at your consultation and then will discuss the surgical options needed as he guides you to receiving the body of your dreams!

Our Post Bariatric Program Director has had weight loss surgery herself.  She understands the long wish list that successful “loser’s” have after reaching their desired weight range.  She will be your contact to guide you through the Body Contouring process and help answer any questions that you may have outside of your consultations.

North Valley Plastic Surgery is thrilled for you and your weight loss journey; but we know you have an amazing life to live and encourage you to continue the journey!



Post Bariatric Body Contouring
Procedures

Panniculectomy:  This procedure is done to remove the skin and fat that hangs over the pubic hair area.  It does not however, address the abdominal musculature or allow for correction of any existing hernias. Click for PhotoGallery

Abdominoplasty (aka Tummy Tuck)This is a more comprehensive procedure that allows for removal of more skin and fat than the panniculectomy.  The muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened and any excess fat that is still remaining can also be removed.  Incisions are strategically placed so that nearly all resulting scars can be concealed beneath bathing suits.  If there are any abdominal hernias, Dr. Gitt will repair them at that time.  Click for PhotoGallery

Circumferential Body Lift:  This is an extensive abdominoplasty with the incision going right around to the back.  It not only tightens the abdomen but significantly removes “love handles” and “saddle bags” while giving lift to the buttocks.  This procedure can give enhanced core shape immediately.  Click for PhotoGallery

Thighplasty (Hip and Thigh Lift):  The hip and thigh region is one of the primary locations in which fat is stored, so when you lose the fat, loose, stretched-out skin often remains in that area.  Dr. Gitt performs a thighplasty to lift up sagging skin and remove the excess.  Incisions are placed in such a manner as to minimize the appearance of scars. Click for PhotoGallery

Brachioplasty (Arm Lift):  When sagging skin is concentrated around the upper arm, an arm lift can be performed to eliminate the “bat wings” effect.  It is one of the most popular skin reduction procedures in people who have lost significant amounts of weight.  Dr Gitt will recontour the area and give your arms a sleeker, more toned appearance. Click for PhotoGallery

Breast Reconstruction:  The female breast following extreme weight loss can be flat, extremely elongated and have very little volume.  A Mastopexy (breast lift) corrects drooping breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple.  If there is a lack of breast volume then an augmentation with breast implants is required. There are many types of breast implants and Dr. Gitt will thoroughly discuss the options with you. Click for PhotoGallery

Gynecomastia (male breast reduction):  The procedure removes fat and or glandular tissue from the breasts, and in extreme cases removes excess skin, resulting in a chest that is flatter, firmer, and better contoured.  It can enhance your appearance and self-confidence.
Click for PhotoGallery

Face and Neck Reconstruction:  After significant weight loss, there can be forehead wrinkling, sagging, drooping, jowels, and what some refer to as “turkey neck”.  These could require a variety of procedures and Dr. Gitt will help you select the plan that is best for you.  You will most likely need 2 key elements:  suspension and the reestablishment of volume.  Small hidden incisions are used for lifting.  Volume fillers can be: fat, Radiance, collagen, and implants.  Different patients have different priorities and your face reconstruction can be done anytime throughout your body contouring journey.

Common Questions

How many procedures will I have to have? The number of body contouring procedures you have will depend on your personal goals.  Dr. Gitt will recommend procedures he feels will be the most beneficial for you during your consultation.

Will I have a lot of visible scars? With virtually all types of surgery there is scarring.  Dr. Gitt will minimize the visibility of these scars through careful incision placement.  Cosmetic scars will fade and become far less noticeable with time.  Dr. Gitt will discuss this with you during your private consultation.

Does insurance cover body contouring after major weight loss? If your surgery is needed for medical reasons, insurance may pay for a portion of the operation.  Possible coverage may be authorized for panniculectamy, hernia repair and breast reduction.  Dr. Gitt and his staff will spend as much time as necessary in an effort to try to have your procedure covered by insurance.  However, the final decision is up to your insurance company.

How long will the effects of the procedures last? Generally, your new look will be permanent.  It’s important to maintain your new weight and lead a healthy lifestyle to realize the best results of your body contouring procedures.  Dr. Gitt sponsors a quarterly support group for anyone who has had any type of weight loss surgery over 1 year or more.  He encourages his patients to continue their healthy journey through education and support.

Patient Testimonials   Please refer to www.obesityhelp.com for patient reviews and testimonials.  You will find them under the Plastic Surgeon’s section for Arizona.

You can also find reviews of NVPS on www.kudzu.com

For a fantastic description of the surgical procedures involved in body contouring surgery... visit: http://www.surgery.org/public/procedures/post_bariatric

Post Bariatric Seminar Video  To view a video presentation by Dr. Gitt. please click HERE

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