Within New Zealand 32% of adults are now classed as obese. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity and is being performed increasingly. The resulting massive weight loss in these patients can lead to both functional problems and profound dissatisfaction with appearance. Correcting skin excess improves these corollaries. The flow-on demand for secondary body contouring procedures constitutes a rapidly growing challenge for Plastic & Reconstructive surgical services.
In this study we report on the outcomes of this cohort undergoing secondary body-contouring procedures within the Christchurch Plastic Surgery Department. Multi-variate analysis of pre-operative and intra-operative parameters was employed to examine associated risk to post-operative complication.