Completing the metamorphosis: building a center of excellence in postbariatric plastic surgery

Postbariatric body contouring is an expanding and rapidly evolving specialty within plastic surgery. To best address the many clinical issues related to the safe and effective care of the postbariatric patient, the authors have established a dedicated multidisciplinary treatment center. Team building efforts have brought together attending plastic surgeons who specialize in body contouring, nurses focused on body contouring after weight loss, and an administrative staff well trained in the issues related to managing these specific types of cases. Through core partnerships, nutritionists, lifestyle counselors, and psychologic professionals are present in the clinic to evaluate patients alongside the plastic surgeon. A dedicated physician assistant and body-contouring fellow work in both the clinic and the operating room (OR). This team approach has allowed for the establishment of defined screening procedures and patient care algorithms. Outreach and patient education initiatives have allowed the center to forge strong alliances with the regional bariatric surgeons and make patients aware of the role of plastic surgery as they start the process of weight loss. A strong research mission is demonstrated by an IRB-approved clinical registry and database that facilitate outcomes studies.