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Friday, October 30, 2026Oct 30

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Ask a Doctor: Can cosmetic surgery help loose skin left behind after gastric bypass surgery?

photo Chad Deal

Q: I am concerned about having loose skin after my gastric bypass surgery. Can cosmetic surgery help?

A: Absolutely. Many people love the results of their gastric bypass or lap band procedure, but are unhappy about the loose, sagging skin left behind. For these patients, we often recommend what’s called a belt lipectomy or “body lift,” which trims and tightens skin at the abdomen and hips, as well as on the thighs and buttocks and sometimes the arms. Although the incisions may still be large, a skilled cosmetic surgeon will ensure scars are as unobtrusive as possible. Ask to see before and after pictures so you can better understand your surgeon’s artistic capabilities.

– Dr. Chad Deal, Southern Surgical Arts; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society

Submit your health-related questions for a medical doctor to lwilson@timesfreepress.com.