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Albany, NY
(518) 414-3010

Albany, NY

Massive Weight Loss

Introduction

Introduction to Massive Weight Loss Surgery

Achieving massive weight loss, whether through lifestyle changes, medications, bariatric surgery, or a combination, is an extraordinary personal accomplishment. Yet many patients discover that, after losing significant weight, their bodies don’t always reflect the progress they’ve made.

Large folds of loose skin, tissue laxity, and residual pockets of fat can cause discomfort, limit mobility, and create challenges with clothing and hygiene. At Fournier Plastic Surgery in Albany, NY, Dr. Fournier offers post–massive weight loss body contouring to help patients complete their transformation. These procedures remove excess skin, reshape underlying tissues, and restore natural contours, allowing patients to finally see and feel the full results of their hard work.

What is Massive Weight Loss Surgery?

Massive weight-loss surgery refers to a comprehensive set of body-contouring procedures performed to address the physical changes that occur after losing a large amount of weight, typically 50 to 100 pounds or more.

The goal is to refine the body’s shape and proportions by removing excess skin, tightening supportive tissues, and improving areas where elasticity has been permanently reduced. Common procedures included in a post–weight loss plan may involve:

  • Lower body lift
  • Arm lift (brachioplasty)
  • Thigh lift
  • Breast lift (with or without augmentation)
  • Abdominoplasty
  • Back lift
  • Liposuction for refinement

Patients often undergo these surgeries in stages to ensure safety and optimal healing. Massive weight loss procedures are highly individualized, and Dr. Fournier develops each treatment plan based on the degree of skin laxity, functional concerns, and aesthetic goals.

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Who Are the Best Candidates For Massive Weight Loss Surgery?

Post–massive weight loss surgery is best for individuals in Albany who:

  • Have achieved and maintained a stable, healthy weight for at least 6 months
  • Experience significant skin laxity or redundant skin that affects comfort or hygiene
  • Are in good overall health and have no uncontrolled medical conditions
  • Are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
  • Understand that multiple procedures may be needed over time
  • Have realistic expectations regarding scar placement, recovery time, and outcomes

Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery should be medically cleared and nutritionally optimized prior to surgery. Patients taking weight loss medications must be off these drugs for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery.

What Are the Benefits of Massive Weight Loss Surgery?

The benefits of post–massive weight-loss surgery extend far beyond cosmetic improvements. Many patients experience a significant reduction in skin irritation, rashes, and chafing caused by overhanging skin folds. Removing excess skin often restores ease of movement, improves posture, and enhances comfort during physical activity.

From an aesthetic standpoint, patients achieve smoother contours, better body proportions, and a more defined silhouette that aligns with their true weight-loss achievement. Psychologically, these procedures can be profoundly empowering, helping individuals feel more confident, comfortable in social settings, and able to enjoy their new lifestyle fully.

A young woman sitting in a green armchair in the office lobby, looking down and focused while filling out digital intake forms on a tablet.

What’s the First Step?

The process begins with a comprehensive consultation at Fournier Plastic Surgery. Dr. Fournier conducts a detailed examination to assess skin redundancy, tissue quality, and areas most affected by weight loss in his Albany, NY office. He’ll also review your weight history, medical background, and general health status.

Together, you will discuss which procedures are most appropriate, whether your goals are best met through a single surgery or multiple staged procedures, and what realistic outcomes look like. Once a plan is established, our team helps schedule your surgery, provides pre-operative guidelines, and supports you at every step of the process.

What to Expect on the Day of Massive Weight Loss Surgery

On the day of surgery, you will be greeted by Dr. Fournier and the anesthesia team, who will review the surgical plan and ensure you are comfortable before the procedure begins. Massive weight loss surgeries are performed under general anesthesia due to their scope and duration. Depending on the planned procedures, incisions may be placed around the abdomen, lower back, arms, thighs, breasts, or flanks, always strategically positioned to minimize visibility where possible.

Dr. Fournier removes excess skin, tightens supportive fascia, repositions tissue for optimal contour, and uses liposuction when needed for additional shaping. Once the contouring is complete, incisions are closed in multiple layers to support smooth healing. Many patients return home the same day, though some may stay overnight for observation depending on the complexity of the surgery.

A bright, close-up shot of Dr. Fournier smiling warmly as he shakes hands with a patient, conveying a sense of trust and successful results.

Massive Weight Loss Surgery Recovery

Recovery varies based on the number and complexity of procedures performed. Most patients should expect swelling, bruising, and temporary mobility limitations during the first few weeks. Compression garments are essential for controlling swelling, protecting incisions, and supporting new contours. Drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup and are often removed within the first 1–2 weeks.

Most patients can resume light activities in 2–3 weeks, with more strenuous exercise delayed until cleared by Dr. Fournier, often around the 6–8 week mark. As the months pass, scars begin to mature, swelling resolves, and the final contour becomes more visible.

How Much Does a Massive Weight Loss Surgery Cost in Albany, NY?

The cost of a Massive Weight Loss in Albany, NY, depends on several key factors, including the number of procedures performed, anesthesia and facility fees, the duration of surgery, and the overall complexity of each patient’s treatment plan. Because these surgeries are fully customized, pricing varies significantly.

Most patients can expect a broad range in the tens of thousands, depending on how many areas are being treated and whether procedures are combined or staged. A precise quote will be provided during your consultation, along with information about financing options if needed.

Dr. Fournier, dressed in black clinical scrubs, sits with a patient in a comfortable lounge area while sharing information on a digital tablet.

Our Ethos

Why Choose Dr. Fournier?

Dr. Craig Fournier is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in post–massive weight loss body contouring. His approach is both technically advanced and deeply patient-centered, offering a balance of surgical precision and compassionate care.

Dr. Fournier understands the physical and emotional journey that accompanies major weight loss and ensures that every patient receives a tailored surgical plan aligned with their goals and anatomy. Patients across New York consistently value his attention to detail, natural-looking outcomes, and commitment to long-term results.

Massive Weight Loss FAQ’S

Patient Reviews

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Such An Amazing Doctor

    Dr. Fournier is not only dedicated to patient satisfaction and providing optimal results, he is compassionate, attentive and patient centered. He understands the importance of recognizing the unique needs of each patient and thus, focuses on individualizing his treatments so to maximize success for each patient . I would highly recommend Dr. Fournier to anyone considering a cosmetic procedure.

    – Cristine S.

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Such an Amazing Doctor.

    Dr. Fournier is amazing. I had went in for a consult for a septoplasty/rhinoplasty. He was easy to talk to and very nonchalant but in the best way possible! He checked on me before my surgery and discussed what I wanted one last time. The day of he was very calm which also helped me stay calm. My recovery was also so easy, which shows he is very skilled at what he does. I had 0 bruising and very minimal swelling. I could also breathe so much better on day 1 of recovery and now 2 weeks later I have never been able to breathe the way I can now. If I ever need another procedure in the future I will be coming back to him!

     

    – Loprencak

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    My confidence has been on 10 since my surgery

    One of the best plastic surgeons in New York very caring and understanding. If your looking for the snatched look in New York this is definitely the doctor to go to. I was so amazed with his work. I had a tummy tuck with lipo, back lift and my hip dips filled in. I get so many compliments and my confidence has been on 10 since my surgery. I recommend all my family and friends to Dr.Fournier. Thanks again for making me feel good about myself again. You are truly the best.

    – sheemy05

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Very helpful with the do’s and don’t and after care routine

    I had been going back and forth looking for the right surgeon for my face lift for the past 5 years, and finally decided to go through with it when I meet Dr. Fournier. From the first consultation, I was very impressed and makes me feel comfortable right away. While the others consultations with different Doctors, always left me with more questions and insecurities with Dr. Fournier all of my questions were answer in a professional and sincere manner. They were very helpful with the do and don’t and after care routine. To say that I am overjoyed with the results is an understatement. Dr. Fournier care and attention to every detail shows through in the results and I could not be happier. I would definitely recommend anyone interested in Facelift to Dr. Fournier

    – Leslie L.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re ready to take the final step in your weight loss journey, the team at Fournier Plastic Surgery is here to guide you. Schedule a consultation in Albany to discuss your concerns, explore your options, and learn what a fully customized post–massive weight loss treatment plan could look like for you.

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