The Challenge After Massive Weight Loss
Losing 30, 50, or even 100+ kilograms is an extraordinary achievement. But for many patients, the celebration is tempered by a new frustration: excess, hanging skin that no amount of exercise can tighten.
This redundant skin isn't just a cosmetic concern — it can cause chronic rashes, infections, mobility limitations, and significant psychological distress. Body contouring surgery is the final step in the weight loss journey, restoring the body's natural silhouette.
Who Is a Candidate?
Prof. Dr. Karaaltın evaluates post-bariatric patients based on:
- Weight stability: Patients should maintain a stable weight for at least 6–12 months before surgery
- BMI: Ideally below 32 for optimal surgical safety, though each case is assessed individually
- Nutritional status: Post-bariatric patients often have protein and vitamin deficiencies that must be corrected pre-operatively
- Psychological readiness: Understanding that body contouring is major surgery with significant recovery
Common Body Contouring Procedures
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
The most requested procedure. Removes excess abdominal skin, tightens separated muscles, and recreates a natural waistline. Prof. Dr. Karaaltın's technique includes circumferential approaches for patients with 360° skin excess.
Lower Body Lift
A comprehensive procedure addressing the abdomen, flanks, hips, and buttocks in a single operation. The gold standard for post-bariatric patients with generalised skin excess.
Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Removes hanging skin from the upper arms — the "bat wings" that many patients find most distressing. Scars are carefully placed along the inner arm.
Thigh Lift
Addresses inner and outer thigh skin excess. Can be combined with liposuction for optimal contouring.
Breast Reshaping
Weight loss often causes dramatic breast deflation. Options include breast lift, augmentation with implants, or fat grafting to restore volume and shape.
Staged vs Combined Procedures
Prof. Dr. Karaaltın carefully plans whether procedures should be combined or staged:
| Approach | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Combined (multiple areas) | Fewer anaesthetics, shorter total recovery | Longer single surgery, higher initial risk |
| Staged (one area at a time) | Shorter individual surgeries, lower per-session risk | Multiple recovery periods, higher total cost |
Recovery and Results
Body contouring recovery varies by procedure but generally involves 2–4 weeks of limited activity. Compression garments are essential for optimal results. Final results are typically visible at 6–12 months as swelling resolves and scars mature.
International Patients
Post-bariatric body contouring is one of the most popular procedures for international patients visiting Prof. Dr. Karaaltın in Istanbul, offering significant cost savings compared to UK, US, and Swiss prices while maintaining the highest surgical standards.
Considering this procedure?
Book a private consultation with Prof. Dr. Mehmet Veli Karaaltın for a personalised surgical plan.
Speak to the clinic
Patients travel from the UK, Ireland and the United States for treatment in Istanbul. Video consultations are held before you book any travel.
Teşvikiye, Sakayık Sk. No:47
34365 Şişli / Istanbul, Turkey