Questions About Plastics.

When would I need to start looking in to plastic surgery. I know I am only 8month out. Still need 20 to 25 lbs more weight to lose to be at goal. Just wondering when any of you started looking. Thanks, Cathy

My surgeon suggested 2 years. They all differ.

The PS question came up for me way before I was ready. I was attending the OH conference in LA last Nov and a few of the key presenters were plastic surgeons. There were a total of 5 plastic surgeons there.I consulted with all 5. Even though I was only 4 1/2 months post-op, I decided to learn as much as I could while I was there because it was convenient since everyone was gathered in one place.

Of the 5 surgeons I met, I really liked 2 of them well enough to give them serious consideration. I am now 9 months post-op and I just saw one of the surgeons again last week. (His name is Dr. Siamak Agha, he's located in Newport Beach.)

Now, Dr. Agha won't operate on a WLS patient until they are a year post-op. But it is a good thing I met with him because he told me that I shouldn't loose any more weight! I was surprised, I thought I had 20-25 more pounds to loose, but he said that if I loose too much more weight, he won't be able to contour me properly.

There is a gal on the PS boards *****ports that Dr. Agha actually asked her to gain some weight for her 2nd stage of plastics because he apparently needed some fat to work with.

My advice--if you are wanting to loose 20-25 more pounds is that you should start looking soon. You may find out, depending on what plastic surgeon's you talk to, that you are actually at the perfect pre-op weight for plastics, and that instead of focusing on losing more weight, that you should instead be trying to maintain your current weight.

Just my two cents!

I consulted with my plastic surgeon a little over 1 year after my surgery.  I had lost all I was going to and had my first round of plastics about 18 months after my wls.

I know BCBS doesn't cover until after 1.5 years out and a stable weight maintained for 6 months afterwards. You may want to check with your insurance provider as they all vary.

I waited to have plastics until I hit below goal and was easily maintaining.
I began getting quotes 35 lbs from goal knowing I'd need another quote as my body changed more. I suggest a minimum of 3-5 quotes as all doctors fees, manner and procedures vary as well. You want to be confident of your decision,your doctor and facility the day to walk in to have surgery.

My best to you,
Kim