A new study has found that obese patients who undergo weight loss surgery may be more likely to keep the weight off if they also have plastic surgery procedures to improve their overall appearance.

Researchers from the Henry Ford Hospital tracked the long-term weight loss of 94 bariatric surgery patients between 2003 and 2013, measuring their Body Mass Index (BMI) numbers before the weight loss operations and two-and-a-half years after.

Of the 94 patients, 47 had cosmetic operations, such as tummy tucks, breast and butt lifts as well as liposuction. These procedures are often used to remove and lift skin that is left sagging and drooping after extreme weight loss, and to target any remaining, stubborn fatty deposits. At the end of the study, the subjects who underwent plastic surgery following their bariatric procedures had an average BMI decrease of 18.24. Those who did not had a BMI loss of 12.45. 

Members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recently reviewed the study’s findings at the group’s annual conference in Chicago. 

“As plastic and reconstructive surgeons, we are encouraged by the idea that improved body image can translate into better long-term maintenance of a healthier weight, and possibly a better quality of life for our patients,” lead researcher Donna Tepper, M.D. says in a press release. 

For bariatric surgery patients, weight loss maintenance can literally mean the difference between life and death. Extreme weight loss significantly lowers risk of diabetes, heart problems and other potentially fatal health issues. 

If you or someone you love has had bariatric surgery, consider investing in cosmetic surgery to further increase quality of life and improve the likelihood of long-term success. Christopher Craft, M.D., can advise you on how to look and feel better than you ever imagined possible! Contact Christopher Craft Cosmetic Surgery today.