Post-bariatric Surgery

Body Contouring
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Post-bariatric Surgery

Post-bariatric Surgery

What is post-bariatric surgery?
Who is eligible?
Which body regions are treated?
Combination surgeries – possible & safe?
Treatment procedure
What you can expect
Why BONITAS?
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

You have achieved great things. You have lost weight, changed your life, fought through highs and lows. But what often remains is a shell: excess skin, excess tissue, friction, limitations – where your new self should actually be free.

The Post-Bariatric Surgery at BONITAS is more than just body contouring. It is the aesthetic and functional completion of a profound transformation. Plastic surgeon Alejandro Marti accompanies you with surgical expertise, a holistic view – and genuine respect for your achievement.

At a glance

Post-bariatric surgery removes excess skin on the abdomen, chest, arms and legs after major weight loss.

Surgery time: 3–6 hours depending on the area
Anesthesia: general anesthesia
Hospital stay: 2–4 days inpatient
Recovery: 3–4 weeks, sport after 8 weeks
Final result: visible after 6–12 months
Prices: in our price overview

What is post-bariatric surgery?

Post-bariatric surgery includes plastic-surgical procedures for body contouring after massive weight loss – e.g., after gastric reduction, a gastric bypass, or through personal lifestyle changes.

The goal is to permanently eliminate excess skin, sagging tissue, and functional discomfort – for a body image that reflects your new life reality.

Who is eligible?

You are ready for post-bariatric surgery if:

you have lost at least 30 kg of weight
your weight has been stable for at least 6 months
your BMI is ideally < 30
you are healthy & psychologically stable
you want to complete your body now – not just visually, but also emotionally

Which body regions are treated?

Depending on the individual situation, several zones can be tightened, contoured, and harmonized:

Body Region	Possible Procedures
Abdomen	Abdominoplasty with muscle reconstruction
Breast (m/f)	Breast lift, possibly with implant or gynecomastia surgery
Arms	Arm lift
Legs	Thigh lift

BONITAS offers tailor-made overall concepts that are medically sound and aesthetically coordinated – no standard surgeries, but true body contouring.

Combination surgeries – possible & safe?

Yes – depending on health status, surgical region, and objectives. Common combinations:

Abdomen + Breast
Upper Arms + Thighs
Lift + Liposuction + Plasma Tightening

At BONITAS, we pay close attention to safety, anesthesia time, regenerative capacity, and aesthetic balance. Major changes require strategic planning – and no quick fixes.

Treatment procedure

Preparation:

Comprehensive consultation
Photo documentation & surgical planning
Information about procedure, risks & results

Surgery & Stay:

Procedures under general anesthesia, depending on scope.
Surgery duration: usually 3–6 hours (depending on combination)
Usually a 2–4 day inpatient stay
Scars are placed to be aesthetically inconspicuous

Aftercare:

Compression garments for 6 weeks
Rest & gradual increase in activity
Follow-up appointments at BONITAS for progress monitoring

What you can expect

Significantly less excess skin & functional relief
Harmonious silhouette – you feel at home in your body again
More joy in movement, clothing & self-perception
A body that finally feels like your new life

Post-bariatric surgery is not vanity – but a worthy completion of your transformation.

Why BONITAS?

Specialist in Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery with a focus on complex body contouring
Consultation with sensitivity & honesty – realistic goals, no sugarcoating
State-of-the-art technology: scar-sparing, skin-friendly, precise
Central, Discreet Practice
Genuine appreciation for your journey – you are more than just a surgical case

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Does Everything Have to Be Done in One Surgery?

Not necessarily. Often, treatment occurs in 2–3 procedures, depending on the region, resilience, and desired result.

What Does Post-Bariatric Mean?

“Post-bariatric” refers to the state after massive weight reduction – usually as a result of bariatric surgery such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. Subsequently, excess skin often occurs on the abdomen, arms, thighs, or chest. Post-bariatric surgery includes targeted lifting procedures to restore form, function, and quality of life.

Which BMI is Ideal for Reconstructive Surgery after Weight Loss?

A BMI under 30 is generally a prerequisite for reconstructive surgery after massive weight loss. With a higher BMI, the risk of wound healing disorders and complications increases. It is also crucial that the weight has remained stable for at least 6 months. At BONITAS, we check in a personal consultation whether all prerequisites are met – medically and aesthetically.

How Many kg Does One Lose with an Abdominoplasty?

During an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), excess skin and subcutaneous tissue are removed – usually between 1 and 3 kilograms. However, the actual focus is not on weight reduction, but on the functional and aesthetic improvement of body contour. Many patients report increased mobility, better skin care, and enhanced self-esteem after the procedure.

Smiling man with dark hair and beard in white coat against light background: Alejandro Marti, specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery, BONITAS Nuremberg

Alejandro Marti, MD
Founder of BONITAS

Get your advice now

If you are considering medical aesthetic treatment, schedule your consultation for an honest assessment tailored to your needs.

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Scientific References

4 sources

Agha-Mohammadi S, Hurwitz DJ. „Potential impacts of nutritional deficiency of postbariatric patients on body contouring surgery.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2008. PubMed PMID 19050544
Staalesen T et al. „The Effect of Abdominoplasty and Outcome of Rectus Fascia Plication on Health-Related Quality of Life in Post-Bariatric Surgery Patients.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2015. PubMed PMID 26595030
Pozzi M et al. „Flowchart in Post-Bariatric Surgery: A Research for the Appropriate Type and Timing of Plasties Reshaping the Body.” Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2024. PubMed PMID 38110738
ElAbd R et al. „Body Contouring Surgery Improves Weight Loss after Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2021. PubMed PMID 33095301