Dr Justin West discusses how his practice supports post-weight-loss patients through bundled surgical care, comprehensive follow-up, and financing solutions that make cosmetic treatment more accessible.
With the rise of medical weight loss treatments like GLP-1 medications, plastic surgeons are seeing a growing number of patients seeking aesthetic solutions for excess skin and body contouring. These patients often need more than just surgery—they require a comprehensive care team and financing options that make bundled procedures accessible and manageable. Justin West, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon and medical director at Finesse Plastic Surgery, shares how his practice is meeting the evolving needs of this patient population through multidisciplinary support, strategic pricing, and payment solutions designed to improve outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Plastic Surgery Practice: Patients who experience rapid weight loss—particularly those using GLP-1 medications—may be left with excess skin or aesthetic changes. What types of procedures do you commonly recommend to address these concerns?
Justin West, MD: We’re seeing an increasing number of patients who have experienced rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications and are now dealing with significant skin laxity. To address this, we typically recommend a comprehensive body contouring approach. Patients often begin with concerns about their upper body, particularly their arms. Many have become self-conscious about excess skin, so brachioplasty or arm lifts are a common starting point. Breasts are another primary focus for patients. Older patients often lose volume and benefit from breast lifts, sometimes with implants, while younger patients with denser tissue may need less intervention.
In the abdominal area, many patients still have decent skin elasticity, making tummy tucks a frequent choice. Thigh lifts are also common, especially as patients become healthier and more active but still struggle with the appearance of their legs.
Often, we perform multiple procedures during a single surgical session to address multiple areas efficiently. When appropriate, combining procedures allows us to deliver a better patient experience and more transformative results in fewer stages. Safety is always our top priority, so we always follow state-specific guidelines on our operating room (OR) time.
PSP: How critical is it for patients to have access to a comprehensive cosmetic care team during both the pre-operative and post-operative phases of treatment?
West: Having a comprehensive care team is essential for ensuring optimal outcomes, both clinically and emotionally. Our job as surgeons goes beyond just performing the procedure—we’re here to guide, educate, and empower patients throughout the entire process. That begins with a thoughtful consultation to determine which procedures are most suitable based on the patient’s goals, health, and anatomy.
Every practice operates differently. Some are highly surgeon-driven, where the physician is involved at every touch point. In my case, I stayed heavily involved from pre-op through recovery. My responsibility doesn’t end with the last suture. I see patients at nearly every follow-up visit to ensure healing is on track and that they’re feeling supported. That continuity helps build trust and contributes significantly to satisfaction and safety.
PSP: For practices working with patients seeking multiple procedures, how do bundled care options enhance both clinical efficiency and patient satisfaction?
West: Bundling procedures is more efficient from a surgical standpoint and can benefit the patients both financially and emotionally. Doing multiple procedures in one session reduces the need for multiple rounds of anesthesia, which can be safer and less costly. It can also minimize total recovery time, allowing patients to return to their lives more quickly.
From a cost perspective, we structure pricing to reflect the efficiencies achieved in the operating room. While the surgeon’s fee may vary depending on the scope of the procedures, patients typically save on operation time and anesthesia costs. We’re transparent about these bundled pricing options so patients can make informed decisions and feel they’re getting high-quality care at a reasonable price.
PSP: What do you see as the biggest benefits of offering upfront, promotional financing options in elective cosmetic care—and how has this impacted your patient base?
West: Elective cosmetic surgery is a significant investment. It is comparable to buying a car in many ways. Very few of my patients are in a position to pay the full out-of-pocket amount upfront, so financing options are helpful. Many patients inquire about financing early in the consultation process or have already researched it before visiting our office.
That’s where our financial coordinator team comes in. They help patients navigate their options and choose financing that aligns with their budget and goals. We’ve partnered with CareCredit to offer transparent financing options with the CareCredit credit card, which have had a substantial impact. Approximately one-third of our patients utilize financing, and CareCredit’s trusted platform provides them with the confidence and clarity they need to move forward with care. CareCredit’s Fair Financing Principles is also a helpful resource, establishing a new standard for transparency and education for financing options.
PSP: As interest in weight-loss-related aesthetic procedures grows, how are you adapting your practice to meet both the clinical and financial needs of this expanding patient demographic?
West: Ten years ago, our practice was heavily 95% breast-augmentation focused. Today, we’re seeing a significant shift, with a growing portion of our work dedicated to body contouring procedures tied to weight loss. This shift reflects a broader trend we’re seeing nationally, as more patients pursue healthier lifestyles and medical weight loss options, such as GLP-1s.
To meet the evolving needs of this patient base, we’ve expanded our procedural offerings and partnered with trusted financing providers, such as CareCredit. These partnerships allow us to offer additional payment options, making treatment more accessible. Clinically, it’s been a gratifying shift. We’re helping patients complete their weight loss journey in a meaningful, confidence-boosting way. The demand is only growing, and adapting to it has become a central part of how we practice today. PSP
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