Losing a significant amount of weight through weight loss surgery can bring about profound changes not only in your health but also in your physical appearance. In this blog post, we’ll explore how your physical appearance might change after weight loss surgery.
The weight loss itself
There are a few main physical differences that a person will notice, the most prominent of which will be the actual reduction in weight. Which procedure the patient undergoes will result in different levels of weight loss:
- Gastric Band surgery – on average patients will lose about 45-50% of their excess weight
- Gastric Bypass surgery – on average patients will lose about 75-87% of their excess weight
- Gastric Sleeve surgery – on average patients will lose about 62-75% of their excess weight
- Endoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy – current data suggests on average patients will lose 20% of their excess weight in the short term
Body contouring
As you lose weight, your body contour may change. Some individuals may experience loose or sagging skin, especially in areas where there is significant fat loss. This is more common in cases of rapid weight loss. Body contouring surgeries, such as a tummy tuck or arm lift, may be considered to address excess skin.
Facial changes
Weight loss often leads to changes in facial appearance. With a reduction in overall body fat, your face may become more defined, and features may appear sharper. Some individuals also notice a decrease in the appearance of a double chin.
Clothing size
After weight loss surgery, you’ll likely need a new wardrobe. Smaller clothing sizes will be necessary as your body size decreases. This can be an exciting aspect of the transformation, allowing you to explore different styles and feel more comfortable in your clothing.
Improved posture
Carrying excess weight can affect posture. As you shed pounds, you may notice improvements in your posture and the way you carry yourself. This can have a positive impact on your overall physical wellbeing.
Enhanced confidence
Weight loss often brings about an increase in self-esteem and confidence. Feeling healthier and more comfortable in your own body can positively impact your mental and emotional wellbeing, contributing to an overall improved quality of life.
Changes in fat distribution
Weight loss surgery can lead to changes in the distribution of body fat. Some areas may see more significant fat loss than others. Understanding that your body’s fat distribution is unique to you can help manage expectations.
Health improvements
While not a visible change, the improvements in your health after weight loss surgery can have a profound impact on your overall wellbeing. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea may improve or even resolve.
Hair loss
There is also a possibility of hair loss as bariatric surgery leads to a state of malnutrition in the body and therefore any energy supplies are directed towards maintaining organ function. Hair growth is therefore temporarily affected but the body gradually adapts to a lower energy intake.
Weight loss surgery can be a transformative journey, not only for your health but also for your physical appearance and self-confidence. It’s important to approach this process with realistic expectations and to embrace the positive changes that come with improved health and wellbeing.
Consulting with healthcare professionals, including surgeons and nutritionists, can provide guidance on managing post-surgery changes and optimising your overall health. Remember, the journey to a healthier you is unique, and the changes you experience are part of your personal transformation.
To enquire with Streamline about the weight loss procedures we offer, please call 0333 016 3030 or fill in the online enquiry form below.