This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
Post-bariatric body contouring refers to a range of surgical procedures that may be considered to address excess skin and residual tissue after significant weight loss. These procedures may be performed for functional concerns (such as skin irritation or hygiene difficulties) and/or to adjust body contour. Surgical planning is individualised and may involve staged procedures. A consultation is required to assess suitability and to discuss expected changes and limitations, scarring, risks, recovery, and alternatives.
Following major weight loss, some people develop loose or redundant skin and tissue in areas such as the abdomen, flanks, back, arms, thighs, and chest. Post-bariatric body contouring procedures aim to remove excess skin and reshape underlying tissues where clinically appropriate.
Procedures are commonly planned in stages depending on health, operative time, recovery considerations, and the areas being treated. All surgery results in scars, and scar length/visibility varies between individuals and procedures.
The goals of post-bariatric body contouring depend on individual anatomy, symptoms, and the agreed surgical plan. Depending on the procedure(s) performed, potential physical outcomes may include:
– Reduction of excess skin: removal of redundant skin and tissue where clinically appropriate.
– Change in body contour: reshaping of targeted areas; outcomes vary with skin quality, anatomy, and healing.
– Skin-fold symptom management: in some patients, removal of overhanging skin may reduce issues such as irritation, rashes, intertrigo, and hygiene difficulty; this varies.
– Comfort and activity considerations: some people report improved comfort with movement and clothing fit; this varies.
Outcomes vary and no specific result can be guaranteed.
A suitable candidate is generally an adult who has experienced significant weight loss and is seeking assessment for excess skin and related concerns. Suitability depends on overall health, nutritional status, smoking status, weight stability, and the areas involved. Candidates should have realistic expectations regarding scarring, the possibility of staged procedures, and variability in outcomes. A consultation is required to confirm suitability.
You May Be a Good Candidate If
You may be a good candidate for post-bariatric body contouring if you:
– Have achieved weight stability for a period recommended by your treating team (this varies by individual circumstances)
– Are in good overall physical health (as assessed clinically), including appropriate nutrition for healing
– Do not smoke or are willing to stop nicotine use for a specified period before and after surgery (as directed)
– Are experiencing functional concerns from excess skin (such as irritation or hygiene difficulties), and/or would like an assessment of contouring options
– Understand that scarring is expected, procedures may be staged, and results vary
Post-bariatric body contouring may not be suitable for individuals who:
– Have unstable weight (ongoing major loss or gain) where timing may affect planning and outcomes
– Have uncontrolled medical conditions that increase surgical risk
– Have an active infection
– Are unable to stop nicotine use where clinically required (as nicotine can impair healing)
– Have unrealistic expectations about outcomes, scarring, or symmetry
Post-bariatric contouring is individualised and may involve one or more procedures based on clinical assessment and priorities. Options may include:
– Lower Body Lift (Belt Lipectomy): addresses excess skin and tissue around the abdomen, flanks, hips, and lower back.
– Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): targets excess skin and tissue of the abdomen; muscle repair may be considered in selected cases.
– Brachioplasty (Arm Lift): addresses excess upper arm skin and tissue.
– Thigh Lift (Thighplasty): addresses excess skin and tissue of the inner and/or outer thighs.
– Breast procedures (selected cases): breast lift and/or reduction/augmentation may be discussed depending on anatomy and clinical goals.
The surgical plan, including incision placement, expected scarring, and whether staging is recommended, is discussed during consultation.
Anesthesia
Post-bariatric body contouring procedures are commonly performed under general anaesthesia. The anaesthesia plan depends on the procedure(s) selected, overall health factors, and facility protocols, and will be discussed during consultation.
Preparation typically includes:
– Medical review: health history, medications and supplements, and relevant investigations where required.
– Medication guidance: you may be asked to stop certain medications/supplements that can increase bleeding risk (where clinically appropriate).
– Nicotine cessation: nicotine can impair healing; you may be asked to stop smoking/vaping/nicotine products for a specified period before and after surgery.
– Fasting instructions: follow the facility’s requirements prior to anaesthesia.
– Support planning: arrange transport and post-operative support after discharge.
Return to Work: Timing varies depending on the extent of surgery and the physical demands of your role.
Return to Exercise: Light walking is often encouraged early, as advised. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically restricted for a period determined by your surgeon.
Appearance over time: Swelling reduces gradually and scars mature over months. There is no single timeline that applies to everyone.
The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
Procedure: Abdominoplasty, Breast Lift
Recovery Timeline: 3 Months
