Dr. Smita Ramanadham, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New Jersey, is noticing a shift in her patient demographics. Once mostly younger women seeking post-pregnancy procedures, her clinic now sees a growing number of middle-aged women pursuing cosmetic surgery to address changes related to menopause.
“My only regret is not having surgery sooner so I could enjoy it longer,” said Jennie Rodriguez, a patient at Ramanadham’s clinic.
The Menopause Effect on the Body
Menopause usually begins between ages 45 and 55, with physical and hormonal changes that can last for years. While symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings are well known, many women are also affected by visible changes in body shape, according to Dr. Ramanadham.
She says one of the most common concerns among menopausal patients is unexplained weight gain, especially around the abdomen.
“A lot of patients say they haven’t really changed their lifestyle in terms of diet or exercise, but it’s harder to lose weight now than it was in the past,” she explained. “That’s a little frustrating for them.”
Breast Changes Add to the Struggle
Dr. Ramanadham has also seen more menopausal women interested in breast reduction surgery. She notes that during menopause, some women experience enlargement of breast tissue, which can affect both appearance and quality of life.
“Back pain can take a toll on their lifestyle, especially for people who are physically active, like runners,” she said. “A lot of patients say they have to wear two sports bras or can’t find the right one.”
One Woman’s Story: Jenny Rodriguez
Jennie Rodriguez, one of Dr. Ramanadham’s patients, knows this journey firsthand. She underwent a total hysterectomy at age 38, a procedure that quickly pushed her into early menopause. Soon after, she saw noticeable changes in how her body stored weight.
“I’ve been skinny basically my whole life,” Rodriguez said. After having children, she gained some weight but lost 50 pounds in three months with the help of GLP-1 medication.
However, the weight returned following her hysterectomy — and this time, the medication didn’t work as well.
“Even when I went back on medication, it wasn’t working like before,” she said.
Rodriguez began struggling with everyday tasks like walking and dressing. Her belly became a major point of discomfort and self-consciousness. After consulting with Dr. Ramanadham, she decided on an abdominoplasty and liposuction — two surgeries frequently part of what Ramanadham refers to as a “menopausal transformation.”
A Financial Sacrifice with a Purpose
To pay for the procedure, Rodriguez picked up part-time work and saved for a full year.
“I knew it would make me feel better and give me the confidence I needed,” she shared.
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