[POST MASSIVE WEIGHT LOSS BODY CONTOURING SURGERIES CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANTLY TO OBESITY TREATMENT]

Obesity has become one of the most challenging diseases in the modern world due to its high prevalence, its metabolic pathways and its medical impacts. Although bariatric surgeries have become the main treatment for obesity, a new issue is being created - loose skin. Massive weight loss patients undergo body contouring plastic surgery (BCPS) to remove the excess skin and improve their quality of life. Patients' age, physical and medical status, amount of redundant skin and patients' personal preferences dictate the number of anatomical areas contoured at every surgical stage. Recent studies have shown that BCPS are a significant protective factor against long-term weight regain following bariatric surgery. Specifically, the number of operated areas have a direct influence on weight control: BCPS in three or more anatomical areas following massive weight loss (MWL) is associated with a higher chance of long-term weight loss following body-contouring surgery in comparison to surgery in one area alone. In summary, BCPS have become a fundamental part of the holistic treatment recommended for patients suffering from obesity.