Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Inverted-T-Abdominoplasty on Quality of Life: Insights from Post-Bariatric Surgery Patients.

[BACKGROUND] Body contouring procedures following massive weight loss (MWL) are in increasing demand, with abdominoplasty emerging as one of the most frequently sought options to address excess skin and contour issues. This study comprehensively examines long-term changes in Quality of Life (QoL) following abdominoplasty in individuals who have undergone MWL.

[METHODS] In this retrospective, single-center study, 54 post-bariatric patients who had experienced MWL and subsequently underwent abdominoplasty were included. The mean age was 50.8 years. Multiple aspects of QoL were assessed using a specially designed questionnaire administered pre- and postoperatively. Inclusion criteria included a BMI < 35 and a previous bariatric procedure.

[RESULTS] The physical component score (PCS-12) demonstrated significant improvement both early and late postoperatively, whereas the mental component score (MCS-12) showed no significant change. Vitality and self-acceptance exhibited significant improvements in both the short and long term. In contrast, body contact, sexuality, and self-esteem showed no long-term improvement post-surgery. Depression scores (PHQ-4) had no positive impact on long-term QoL. Body function (X-SMFA) showed significant long-term improvement, though the impairment score revealed no significant change.

[CONCLUSIONS] Consistent with prior research, abdominoplasty following MWL leads to positive physical outcomes. However, the impact on body image is heterogeneous, with no sustained improvement observed in some psychosocial dimensions. As depression and body impairment scores also do not show lasting improvement, patients with expectations of broad QoL enhancements should be carefully selected and assessed for potential multidisciplinary treatment.