Self-reported problems and wishes for plastic surgery after bariatric surgery

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Bariatric Surgery
• Obesity Medicine

Background:

• Increasing rates of severe obesity (BMI > 40) worldwide lead to more bariatric surgeries like gastric bypass (GB).
• Massive weight loss post-GB often results in excess skin, necessitating further surgical intervention.
• Previous studies suggest up to 30% of bariatric patients seek corrective plastic surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of patient-initiated interest in plastic surgery following gastric bypass.
• To identify patient motivations and reasons for seeking excess skin removal.
• To understand the extent of demand for post-bariatric plastic surgery.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous questionnaire was administered to 150 gastric bypass patients at their 1-year follow-up.
• Data collected included demographics, habits, comorbidities, and physical, psychological, and cosmetic concerns related to excess skin.
• Patients indicated the most bothersome anatomical areas.

Main Results:

• A significant 89.9% of the 138 respondents expressed a desire for plastic surgery.
• Patient demand for plastic surgery was not correlated with age, gender, smoking status, or prior comorbidities.
• Common reasons for seeking surgery were related to physical discomfort, psychological distress, and cosmetic appearance.

Conclusions:

• There is a very high demand for plastic surgery among gastric bypass patients experiencing excess skin.
• This demand is a significant factor in post-bariatric care, irrespective of patient background characteristics.
• Healthcare providers should anticipate and address the need for reconstructive plastic surgery in this population.