Effect of Body Contouring Procedures on Changes in Long-Term Weight and Metabolic Health

Abstract

Background: Body contouring procedures, including reduction mammoplasty (RM) and panniculectomy, enhance several quality-of-life indicators such as comfort, hygiene, exercise capability, and body shape. However, the extended metabolic implications of these interventions remain underexplored. This study examined the potential long-term metabolic benefits of RM and panniculectomy, particularly reductions in total cholesterol, hemoglobin A1C, and weight. Methods: An institutional chart review was performed to identify all patients who underwent RM and panniculectomy between 2010 and 2021, with follow-up weights of approximately 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Preoperative weight, body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol, and HbA1C were compared at the 3 postoperative time points. Results: One hundred thirty-two patients were included in the study. Of these, 87% underwent RM, and 13% underwent panniculectomy. The cohort was predominantly female (94.7%, N = 125) within the 40 to 65 age range (58.3%, N = 77). Among all patients, 22% (N = 29) had diabetes. Weight, BMI, LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and A1C levels collectively did not change over the 2-year postoperative period (P < .05). Conclusion: At the long-term follow-up, patients who underwent RM or panniculectomy showed no significant changes in weight, glucose control, or total cholesterol levels. Although these procedures primarily target enhancements in comfort, body shape, and hygiene, our findings suggest that changes in metabolic parameters did not occur.