Weight Loss Solutions

Our prospective and current Lap-Band patients are often afraid of excess saggy skin. They worry about what their skin will look like, how extra skin will affect their lives, how to prevent it, and if they will need plastic surgery post Lap-Band procedure.

We start with education. What happens to our skin as we lose weight and how to pre-establish healthy skin pre-LAP-BAND®-surgery.

• Exercise. Yes, we understand the difficulties exercise presents. Joint pain, shortness of breath, self-esteem issues, etc. If sagging skin is a concern, a steady regimen can help. To start, water sports are a great option. Swimming serves as a form of cardio and water aerobics with weights can serve as weight training. As you lose weight, venture out of the pool and take yoga or Pilates.
• Lap-Band approved diet. Losing 2 to 4 pounds, a week, post-surgery, is a great goal to strive for, it allows the skin to naturally retract and lower the amount sag. A more rapid weight loss does not give your skin the proper time to ‘bounce’ back. Take your time, take care of your health, eat and drink the correct things.
• Cosmetic surgery. This is 100% a personal choice, and financial. Lap-Band surgery may be covered by insurance; however, plastic surgery usually is not. In addition, plastic surgery is about the patients comfort level, to some it is a non-issue and for others is very important. These are very personal factors and should be carefully thought out. Moving forward with plastic surgery will result in a series of visits with a plastic surgeon, if you are to the point of interest, Dr. McEwen will suggest a plastic surgeon based on your particular areas of concern.
• Positively, Lap-Band patients lose weight gradually in comparison to gastric bypass or gastric sleeve patients. Slow, consistent weight loss can help the skin recovery but remember it all depends on each  patient and multiple factors. Ultimately, saggy skin is a result of a great lifestyle change. It means you are healthier and have lost the weight you have wanted; it is a positive and a big win in your weight loss journey.

For personalized information on LAP-BAND surgery click here and ORBERA click here.

To learn more about Dr. McEwen and the Community Surgery Center Hamilton team visit our facebook page or call our office at 317-621-2500.

Want more inspiration? Follow us on social media for a closer look at life with a LAP-BAND®!