is lasik surgery something for you to consider?

If you have lost a significant amount of weight, you may experience loose, sagging skin. Loose skin is also common after pregnancy, especially around the abdominal region. Individuals who feel self conscious due to their extra skin may be good candidates for skin removal surgery. Knowledge is essential to making a well-informed decision concerning cosmetic surgery.

1. The effects are permanent.

As long as you maintain your weight after your skin removal surgery, you can expect the results to last indefinitely. Your skin may lose a bit of firmness as you age, but your overall results should stay the same. 

It is advised that women wait until they are through having children before undergoing skin removal surgery. The weight gain associated with even a healthy pregnancy can negate the surgery's results.

2. Expect to Pay for the Surgery Out-of-Pocket.

Unless your excess skin is causing documented health issues, it is unlikely that your insurance will cover the procedure. A full-body procedure costs approximately $30,000, while a less intensive operation, such as an arm lift, costs about $8,000.

If the cost seems daunting, consider it an investment in your body. Medical loans and credit cards can help you spread the payments out over time. These products often feature low interest rates to make cosmetic surgery more affordable.

3. Be Prepared to Take Time off Work.

After your procedure, it can take four to six weeks for your body to completely recover. Though the specific guidelines vary based on your operation, you are generally advised to avoid lifting heavy objects and to stay away from vigorous activity. You might have to avoid sitting or laying in certain positions while your body heals.

The swelling and bruising caused by your procedure can take up to six months to completely subside. 

4. Put Down the Cigarettes.

Smoking cigarettes changes the way that your body uses oxygen. It causes your hemoglobin to carry a reduced amount of oxygen to your body's tissues. Cigarettes also make the blood in your body thicker, further hampering the flow of oxygen. The chemicals in cigarettes also make it more difficult for your body to ward off post-surgery infection.

It is advised to stop smoking at least four to six weeks before your surgery. Though it is ideal to permanently stop smoking, you should definitely avoid cigarettes while your body is healing.

When you have worked hard to reach your goal weight, it is disappointing that your body does not look as you expected. Skin removal surgery tightens your skin so that it fits your new body, improving your self esteem and making it comfortable to participate in vigorous activity. Understanding some key aspects about the procedure helps answer your questions and concerns. Contact a doctor, such as John Gatti MD, for more information about cosmetic surgery.