Revision Chest Contouring and Upper Body Lift Restores Confidence
Posted by Dr. Dadvand January 2, 2025
Every patient who walks into my practice has a story, and every story is unique. Today, I want to share the remarkable journey of a patient whose case truly exemplifies the power of revision surgery.
This patient, a 51-year-old man, came to me with a history of significant weight loss, 126 pounds to be exact. While his achievement was nothing short of inspiring, the aftermath of such weight loss presented challenges he hadn’t anticipated. Despite undergoing previous surgeries, including a lower body lift and chest surgery, he was left feeling unhappy with his chest contour and the overall balance of his upper body.
Challenges of Previous Chest Contouring and Upper Body Lift Surgery
The initial chest surgery aimed to address gynecomastia but left too much residual breast tissue. The prior surgeon had opted to keep the nipples attached to the underlying tissue for the preservation of sensation. This choice, however, meant leaving excess tissue behind, resulting in a fuller chest appearance that lacked the desired masculine definition.
To make matters more complex, the scars from the earlier procedure were placed too low, creating an unbalanced look. Compounding the issue, massive weight loss doesn’t just affect the front of the body, it impacts the back and sides as well. This patient’s previous surgeries had only partially addressed the redundant skin, leaving loose, sagging tissue along the upper back and torso.
My patient felt disheartened, having endured a series of surgeries that still left him feeling self-conscious and insecure. This is why I place great emphasis on ensuring my revision procedures not only correct physical imperfections but also restore confidence. I want my patients to leave my operating room and love their bodies once fully healed.
I Create a Customized Surgical Plan
When I approach a case like this, it’s important to look at the entire picture, not just the isolated problem areas. In this instance, the patient required a circumferential torsoplasty to harmonize his chest, upper back, and torso contours. The key goals of this surgery included:
- Chest masculinization
- Scar revision
- Upper body lift
The Surgery Required Precision
Performing revision surgery is like solving a complex puzzle, it’s not just about making incisions, but about understanding how each adjustment affects the overall result.
Chest Revision
I began by addressing the residual breast tissue, removing it to create a flatter, more masculine chest. By carefully excising the excess tissue and re-draping the skin, I was able to position the nipples in a natural, masculine location without grafting.
Scar Placement
Working with existing scars always requires extra precision. The original scars were placed too low, extending awkwardly toward the arms. To correct this, I made new incisions below the previous scars and carefully lifted and tightened the skin to position the scars higher on the chest and back.
Circumferential Torsoplasty
Finally, I addressed the loose skin on the upper back and sides. As I lifted and tightened these areas, I was able to create a smoother, more cohesive contour that matched the patient’s lower body lift.
The Chest Contouring and Upper Body Lift Surgery Results
This surgery was a game-changer for my patient. The excessive fullness in his chest was gone, replaced by a streamlined, masculine contour. The nipples now sat naturally in line with his pecs. The scars, which had once been an eyesore, were repositioned to blend more harmoniously with his overall anatomy.
Most importantly, the circumferential upper body lift surgery created a cohesive balance, lifting the loose skin on his back and sides to match the taut, defined look of his chest.
Why Revision Surgery Matters
Revision surgery is about more than just physical changes, it’s about giving patients a second chance to feel confident in their bodies. Massive weight loss is an incredible accomplishment, but it often leaves patients with excess skin and tissue that no amount of diet or exercise can fix.
For my patient, this procedure wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about reclaiming his body and his confidence. Seeing him smile after surgery, knowing he finally felt proud of the reflection in the mirror, is why I do what I do.
Are You a Candidate for Revision Surgery?
You may be a candidate if you’ve undergone body contouring surgery but are dissatisfied with your results or if you’re dealing with the aftermath of significant weight loss. I’m Dr. Babak Dadvand, a double board-certified plastic surgeon in LA, and I’m here to help.
Together, we can create a plan to help you achieve the look you’ve worked so hard for. Let’s restore your confidence and bring harmony back to your body. Contact my Beverly Hills office to schedule a consultation and take the next step in your journey.
