As many of you know, I often speak at bariatric support groups in New York and New Jersey. One thing that never fails to amaze me, is how many people are surprised at the body changes after bariatric surgery. Many people had no idea that the skin may remain after weight loss and that needing (wanting) plastic surgery is extremely common.

Patients are much more educated now about PS after weight loss - through support groups that sponsor plastic surgeons, through websites like this one, and in speaking with their bariatric surgeons.

There is always room for improvement - especially on the "pre-op" side, so that you know that the weight loss may not always be the end of your journey.

I am interested to hear your thoughts about the way in which you were educated about plastic surgery (or not educated), and whether this occurred before or after your band procedure. This will help me be able to better educate people about this subject.

I was never informed by my doctor about the possible need for PS, but I have always wanted to have some work done anyways. I am not going to even consult a PS until I reach my goal weight. I have 21 more pounds to lose to have 100 pounds lost since surgery. At that point I will talk to a PS and see what all of my options are.

I love losing the weight, I just wish other parts of my body would shrink before the breasts!!!

My GP was the one to bring up PS rather than my surgeon. She was mostly pondering the possibility of me requiring it in the future rather than suggesting it. I don't know if it will be covered by OHIP or not because technically, it will be elective. They paid for my breast reduction because of their sheer size in relation to my body and maybe that will kick in again? Who knows? I will probably be wanting a tummy tuck eventually, and maybe to get my arms done. I definitely won't be doing my breasts again, even if they do get a wee bit deflated.

I was also told to wait at least 2 years before getting PS. After all, the band and the year after it have pretty dramatic impacts to the body and you don't want to stress it out too much. Plus it does give you some time to gain a bit of perspective on your new body and what you need vs. want. I agree though, that if you're over 50, the chances of your skin bouncing back is pretty slim and I can understand wanting to get on with it.

YEs, my BCBS sent me a letter letting me know that with excessive weight loss their is a strong possibility of excess skin. The letter also stated that Plastic Surgery was NOT covered.

Still thought it was nice to be that direct.

My doctor told me about the likelihood before I was banded. His nurse said that my Blue Cross would pay for it as long as my weight loss exceeded 100 pounds. I had my panneculectomy 3 weeks ago. He removed 10 pounds of excess skin from my stomach. I recommend that anyone considering this procedure do your homework. Understand what your doing, this is not pleasant. I'm sure that once I heal it will have all been worth it but its going to take months of healing.