In recent decades, morbid obesity has grown alarmingly in various regions of the world, particularly in Europe and the United States. Factors such as a high standard of living and sedentary lifestyles have contributed to a significant number of people suffering from this condition, characterized by excess body fat that triggers serious health complications, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension.

Treating Physical Aftermaths: Beyond Aesthetics

In response to this issue, gastric bypass and other surgical techniques have emerged as effective solutions for rapid weight loss and the correction of associated metabolic diseases. However, the road to recovery does not end there. Reconstructive plastic surgery becomes essential in treating the physical sequelae left by morbid obesity, marking a before and after in patients’ lives.

“These procedures are not merely cosmetic; their goal is to repair damage, and they should be covered by social security and private health insurance.”

Law 26396/2008: A Protection for Patients

It is crucial to emphasize that these procedures are not merely cosmetic; their purpose is to repair damage and, therefore, they should be covered by social security and private health insurance. Law 26396, passed in 2008, addresses eating disorders and grants patients the right to request coverage for reconstructive plastic surgery. This regulation, included in the Mandatory Medical Program (PMO) in its Article 15, guarantees full coverage for treatments necessary to correct bodily sequelae, according to the recommendations of the treating plastic surgeon. It is important to note that the law does not limit the treatment to a specific body area but rather considers the particular needs of each case.

“The law guarantees full coverage for the treatments necessary to correct bodily sequelae.”

Individualized Assessment: Every Patient is Unique

Each patient presents a unique situation that requires a thorough evaluation to determine the necessary corrections, with the primary goal of improving their quality of life. These procedures must be performed by certified specialists in plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgery in highly specialized centers equipped with the necessary resources to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Scars and Complications: A Delicate Process

Correcting excess skin after massive weight loss involves generating longer scars, whose final appearance will depend on genetic factors, the area being treated, and the surgical technique used. It is essential to note that fatty tissue, with less blood flow, affects the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and antibiotics, increasing the risk of postoperative complications.

Patients who face the sequelae of morbid obesity have a higher incidence of complications, such as infections, seromas, bleeding, wound dehiscence, hypertrophic scars, and keloids, among others. The final outcome of the surgery is usually visible about a year after the procedure, with asymmetries often appearing and requiring additional corrective procedures. Therefore, it is crucial for patients to strictly follow medical recommendations for at least a year post-surgery.

“The final outcome of the surgery is usually visible after a year, with possible asymmetries and additional corrections.”

Conclusion:

Reconstructive surgery emerges as a crucial step for the full rehabilitation of patients who have faced morbid obesity. These procedures have a significant impact on both physical and emotional health, returning to patients