Body Contouring After GLP-1 Weight Loss

Many patients successfully lose significant weight using GLP-1 medications like semaglutide but face challenges with loose skin and stubborn fat. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lisa DiFrancesco offers advanced body contouring solutions to refine your physique, restore confidence, and celebrate your weight loss journey.

What is Post-GLP-1 Body Contouring?

Body contouring after GLP-1 weight loss involves surgical and non-surgical procedures to address excess skin, fat deposits, and muscle laxity caused by rapid weight reduction. These treatments restore natural contours and improve comfort, hygiene, and self-image.

At DiFrancesco Plastic Surgery, we offer a wide variety of treatment options for body contouring after weight loss, depending on your specific needs. For those who do not have a lot of excess skin or fat that needs to be removed, we have a selection of less invasive skin tightening treatments that may accomplish your goals instead.

Tummy Tuck

After using GLP-1 for weight loss, many see excess skin and laxity in their abdominal region. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can be used to remove excess skin and some fat if desired, as well as tighten abdominal muscles to allow for a more structured torso. There are a variety of types of tummy tuck, ranging from mini to extended, and the best choice will be decided during a consultation with Dr. DiFrancesco.

Thigh Lift

Another area that can be greatly impacted by weight loss after GLP-1 is the thigh region. A thighplasty, or thigh lift, can be used to remove excess skin and fat and tighten muscle. There are several different methods for tightening the thigh, such as an inner or outer thigh lift. Thermi can also be used in some cases to tighten skin if excess fat removal is not needed.

Lower Body Lift

If skin laxity is seen across the entire lower body, including the stomach, thighs and buttocks, a singular treatment may not be enough on its own to help tighten and tone. A lower body lift can comprise of a series of treatments to smooth out areas of laxity for the entire lower body. This combination procedure can be customized for individuals based on specifics needs and goals.

Arm Lift

A brachioplasty, or arm lift, can be used to treat “bat wings” or “bingo arms,” where excess skin and fat has collected on the underside of the arm. An arm lift be minimally invasive via liposuction for those without a lot of excess skin, and can be adjusted as needed depending on specific needs.

Body Lift

If excess skin laxity can be seen all over the body following massive weight loss with GLP-1, an entire body lift may be the right choice. This procedure combines a variety of types of lifts such as arms and thighs, as well as tummy and back, to lift, tighten, and tone the entire body in one treatment.

Radiofrequency-Assisted Liposuction

For those who did not have a lot of weight loss but see some laxity around various parts of their body, a more minimally invasive treatment option may be available. Liposuction with radiofrequency assistance can be used to remove small pockets of fat and tighten skin.

Ideal Candidates for Body Contouring After GLP-1 Weight Loss

Most patients who are experiencing skin laxity after GLP-1 weight loss can be good candidates for any body contouring treatments, provided they fulfill the following criteria.

• Patient is experiencing a stable weight and has been for a few months, or is at or near their goal weight and is not looking to lose more.
• Patient has good overall health and does not have medical conditions that are not currently managed.
• Patient is either a non-smoker or is able to quite at least 2 to 3 weeks prior to surgery.

The Body Contouring Process

While the body contouring process may differ depending on patient needs, goals, and concerns, the general process for most patients will be similar to the following.

Consultation

During your appointment, Dr. DiFrancesco will review your medical history and weight loss journey, as well as confirm where you are at in your progress. If more weight loss is expected, she may advise holding off until you are closer to your goal weight to prevent multiple surgeries. She will also assess skin quality, fat distribution, and muscle tone to determine the right treatment plan for you. During your consultation, Dr. DiFrancesco will recommend a personalized surgical or non-surgical plan that will aim to provide your ideal body.

Your Procedure

If a surgical option is your best plan, you can expect a few hours under general anesthesia while Dr. DiFrancesco removes any excess skin or fat. You will likely be kept for a few hours for observation, potentially overnight depending on the intensity of your surgery, and will need to have a friend or loved one drive you home.

If a more minimally invasive treatment, like BodyTite, is a better choice for your goals, you will be kept under local anesthesia or IV sedation. You can expect your treatment to last a few hours, and will need to have someone drive you home.

After Your Procedure

After a surgical procedure, you can expect to need at least 2 weeks of minimal to no movement while you heal, and at least 4 to 5 weeks before you can resume extensive exercise or lifting heavy items. It will take at least 3 to 6 months to see the full results of your procedure, after swelling has gone down and you have fully recovered.

For a more minimally invasive procedure, you will still need to limit movement for at least the first 1-2 weeks after treatment and will not be able to lift any heavy objects or exercise for at least 3-4 weeks. Results may take a few months to fully present themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions about Body Contouring After GLP-1 for Weight Loss

Start Your Journey Today

You’ve conquered weight loss—now reclaim your confidence with tailored body contouring. Dr. DiFrancesco and her Atlanta-based team prioritize safety, natural aesthetics, and compassionate care. Call (404) 531-2478 or submit our online form.