What Are The Outcomes of Excess Skin Removal Surgery

After significant weight loss, whether it be through bariatric surgery, diet and exercise or other means, can sometimes leave excess skin behind. Excess skin removal surgery is designed to remove this excess skin, and can be focused on various areas of the body.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the possible benefits of the procedure. Ultimately, the decision to undergo the procedure will be based on personal reasons, which can sometimes be medically necessary. If you want personalised advice based on your individual needs, please feel free to contact our team at Valley Plastic Surgery in Brisbane.

What is excess skin removal surgery?

Excess skin removal surgery is a cosmetic procedure for removing the loose, excess skin that can remain after significant weight loss.

By eliminating the excess skin and, in some cases, fat deposits that can remain, the procedure can have a variety of benefits for the patient. The surgery can be performed on various parts of the body, depending on the individual’s needs and goals.

The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and can take several hours, depending on the extent of the procedure needed. Incisions are made in the appropriate areas to remove the excess skin, possibly remove or reposition fat, and tighten the underlying muscles, if necessary.

Who is a suitable candidate for the procedure?

Suitable candidates for excess skin removal surgery are those who have maintained a stable weight for at least six months to a year.

Candidates will need to be in good overall health, without medical conditions that could impair healing. Sometimes, candidates will be instructed to quit smoking about two weeks before undergoing surgery.

It’s also important that candidates have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery and are able to follow their recovery instructions.

What are the types of skin removal procedures?

Excess skin removal surgery can actually be performed in a variety of procedures, to focus on different areas of the body.

An abdominoplasty is one procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, and tightens underlying muscles if they have loosened or become separated.

To focus on excess skin on the arms, an arm lift can remove excess skin and fat from specifically the upper arms. If excess skin is mainly around the thighs, a thigh lift can be a suitable procedure.

A breast lift is also designed to remove excess skin from the breasts. In this procedure, the nipples and areolae may need to be repositioned, depending on where they are currently sitting, how much skin will be removed and the patient’s personal preferences.

When patients need a more comprehensive approach, addressing multiple areas of the body, a body lift may be a suitable option. A body lift can target the abdomen, arms, thighs, buttocks and possibly more areas, within one procedure.

The type of excess skin removal procedure that will suit each patient needs to be determined during a consultation. One of our highly experienced surgeons will need to assess the level of excess skin a patient has, discuss the patient’s personal goals and offer personalised advice.

Surgery may improve mobility and comfort

One of the most significant benefits of excess skin removal surgery may be the improvement in physical comfort and mobility.

Not only can excess skin can cause chafing and irritation, but it can interfere with mobility and even cause pain during everyday activities. Removing the excess skin can allow for a more comfortable range of motion, making it easier to exercise and engage in physical activities. It may also help to reduce pain or other discomfort that excess skin can cause.

Improved mobility and comfort may then lead to further health benefits after the procedure, as patients may be able to increase their activity levels. Post-surgery, patients may find it easier to maintain an active lifestyle, which can help to support long-term weight management and overall health.

Removing excess skin can allow for better hygiene

Excess skin can create folds and creases, where sweat and moisture can accumulate. Over time, skin concerns such as rashes and infections can occur, which can be hard to treat without addressing the source of the issue (which is the excess skin).

Even if the skin can be treated with topical creams, antibiotics and other treatment methods, irritated or infected skin can easily return without removing the excess skin.

When skin removal surgery removes these folds, it will make it easier for the patient to maintain good hygiene, which can significantly reduce the risk of skin infections.

See one of our plastic surgeons at Valley Plastic Surgery in Brisbane

If you are bothered by excess skin after significant weight loss and are considering surgery, speaking to one of our qualified and experienced surgeons can help.

During a consultation, a personalised treatment plan can be discussed in detail, outlining the areas that your procedure will focus on, how much skin will be removed, and more.

Contact our team at Valley Plastic Surgery to book your consultation in Brisbane.