The life after weight loss program: a paradigm for plastic surgery care after massive weight loss.

Obesity has become a nationwide problem. In every state, at least 1 in 5 individuals is obese. Because of the obesity epidemic and the comorbidities associated with obesity, many people turn to bariatric surgery as a treatment option. The most popular bariatric procedures are Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding. With the success of these procedures, patients experience massive weight loss in a short period of time. Their weight loss can be from 50 lb to more than 100 lb. Because of this massive weight loss, patients are left with loose hanging skin. Body contouring in plastic surgery has increased in demand, following the popularity in bariatric procedures. In 2002, the Life After Weight Loss clinical program was established at the University of Pittsburgh, by Dr. J. Peter Rubin, Chair of the Department of Plastic Surgery, UPMC, and Director of the Life After Weight Loss Program.