11 Sep 2024 | by Dr. Sean Doherty
The health benefits of GLP-1 weight loss drugs, which include Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, are far exceeding expectations when taken appropriately under the care of a physician. Originally developed to help those with diabetes, doctors are finding that they also reduce the risk of kidney and cardiovascular disease, improve liver function, and may even help to diminish the inflammation that is the root cause of some chronic diseases. And these are just the physical benefits. Emotionally, patients who have spent years struggling to lose excess pounds are finally free of the burden and shame that often comes with being overweight. Their self-confidence soars as they feel more comfortable in their skin. Sometimes, however, this skin has stretched beyond its ability to re-form over your new slimmer contour. Here are the three top body contouring procedures in my Boston area practice for patients who have taken a weight loss drug.
Weight Loss Different with Ozempic vs. Surgery
Bariatric surgery has long been the go-to procedure for patients who have struggled to lose a significant amount of weight. Although effective, it is a surgical procedure that requires downtime for recovery. A good thing about medicines like Ozempic is their ease. They allow you to lose the weight without having to go under the knife. This is a huge plus. However, it’s important to understand that your body’s reaction to weight loss drugs is different than if you had surgery. Typically, the speed at which you lose weight with a GLP-1 drug is going to be much more rapid. This, in turn, can have a more profound effect on skin elasticity. You’ve probably heard the term “Ozempic Face,” but “Ozempic Body” is also true. Surgical body contouring procedures are an excellent method for counteracting this phenomenon.
Breast Surgery in Boston
One of the most common areas affected by weight loss is your breasts. They shrink as they lose volume. Sometimes, this reduction in breast size is a welcome thing. However, rapid weight loss and a decrease in skin elasticity can adversely affect the shape of your breasts, causing them to sag. Many of my weight loss patients require either a:
- Breast Augmentation
- Mastopexy or Breast Lift
The latter can be done on its own or combined with a breast implant for more volume.
Tummy Tuck After Massive Weight Loss
The second area of the body that takes a hit after massive weight loss is the abdomen. You no longer have as much fat, so your stomach is probably flatter, but you may now have an overabundance of loose skin. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is the best procedure for creating a lifted, long-looking torso. This is a procedure with a more robust recovery, but it also gives me the most access to literally re-sculpt your abdomen and improve the look of your entire torso.
To find out more about a breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck, or any other surgical or non-surgical procedure with Dr. Sean Doherty at his Boston or Brookline office, contact us today or call (617) 450-0070 to schedule a consultation.
