Is plastic surgery something you are considering after bariatric surgery? Many of us experience loose skin that can impede our day-to-day lives, make us feel uncomfortable, or prevent us from feeling like ourselves. Plastic surgery might be something in your future, and we want to arm you with the most accurate information from the experts themselves!

We sat down with Dr. Omar Beidas, an AdventHealth Orlando board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in procedures after massive weight loss, and Stephanie Abeles, a bariatric patient with several plastic surgeries. We wanted to know what the difference is between plastic surgery, cosmetic surgery, and body contouring and why picking the right surgeon with the proper credentials and experiences is so important if we choose to undergo a body modification procedure. We also wanted to know how Stephanie decided to undergo her procedures and understand how she prepared for and cared for herself through her plastic journey. Even if you think plastic surgery might not be in your future, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of the “whys” behind these types of procedures and the power of selecting the right professionals. We know this conversation will help you understand the differences between plastic surgery and body contouring, some of the most common procedures after bariatric surgery, and some insights from the patient's perspective.

AdventHealth Central Florida and BariNation have teamed up to ensure their patients can access outstanding support when and where they need it! If you are a patient of AdventHealth Central Florida, contact your office today by phone or email to access your special BariNation Membership discounted monthly rate! We can’t wait to “see” you in The Nation soon! And be sure you check out the bonus episode with Dr. Beidas and Stephanie in the BariNation Membership Community or our Patreon Community!

Did you have an “aha” moment from this episode? Leave us a message and share your takeaways from this episode or any past episodes of the BariNation Podcast! Head to anchor.fm/barination/message and leave us a message that we can incorporate into future episodes!

You're not alone on this journey. Join the BariNation Support Community and connect with patients committed to living their best bariatric life! Visit us at https://barination.mn.co to learn more about our inclusive and welcoming support community!

About our Guests: Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS, is a board-certified plastic surgeon of plastic and reconstructive surgery. His specialties include body contouring after weight loss, aesthetics, and surgical treatment of lipedema. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, where he serves as Vice Chair of the Practice Management Subcommittee, a member of the Clinical Guideline Workgroup for Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy, and previously served on the Young Plastic Surgeons Steering Committee. Dr. Beidas is also a member of The Aesthetic Society and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

At 48 years old, Stephanie Abeles transformed her life by undergoing weight loss surgery. After years of struggling with dieting, Steph opted for bariatric surgery and lost an incredible 116lbs. Maintaining her goal weight for over four years, Steph attributes a healthy, balanced lifestyle and regular weight training to her success. She's had two rounds of plastic surgery to remove excess skin. Steph shares her inspiring journey on Instagram as @metamorphasteph, hoping to help others on their own weight loss and plastic surgery journeys.

About BariNation: BariNation is a bariatric educational organization on a mission to empower patients to access and utilize the tools, resources, and education needed to find and maintain personal wellness.