Excess Skin Removal Surgery, also known as body contouring, is a set of surgical procedures designed to reshape and refine your body contours by removing loose and sagging skin. These procedures are tailored to address your specific areas of concern.
Understanding the different types of surgeries available can help you make informed decisions about what might best suit your needs.
Excess skin reduction procedures meticulously remove this excess skin, enhancing the body’s natural shape and improving overall appearance. Doing so, not only elevates physical aesthetics but also boosts self-confidence and comfort.
Each procedure requires a different approach and can vary in terms of recovery time, scarring, and results. It’s important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine which type of surgery will best meet your needs and expectations.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan performs Body Contouring surgery for his patients to help them get the toned, sculpted body they desire.
2 to 6 hours
General
1 to 3 nights
6-8 weeks
You’ll see your results immediately, but it can take 6 to 12 months for swelling to subside and surgical scars to fade.
Benefits of Excess Skin Removal Surgery
Excess Skin Removal Surgery offers a multitude of benefits, ranging from physical to psychological improvements. These benefits include:
- Improved Physical Appearance: The most immediate and noticeable benefit is the enhancement of one’s physical appearance. The surgery removes unsightly sagging skin, revealing a more toned and defined body contour. This can lead to a more youthful and revitalised appearance.
- Increased Comfort and Mobility: Excess skin can cause discomfort, chafing, and skin irritation, particularly during physical activities. Removal of this skin can alleviate these issues, making daily activities and exercise more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Boost in Self-Esteem and Confidence: Carrying excess skin can be a significant psychological burden. Many individuals feel self-conscious about their appearance, which can affect their overall quality of life. Post-surgery, patients often report a boost in confidence and self-esteem, as they feel more comfortable in their skin.
- Enhanced Clothing Fit and Fashion Choices: Excess skin can limit clothing options and affect how clothes fit. After surgery, patients often find a wider range of clothing fits them comfortably and flatteringly, allowing for greater freedom in personal style and fashion choices.
- Reduction in Skin-Related Issues: Large folds of skin can be breeding grounds for bacteria and yeast, leading to infections and skin conditions. By removing these folds, the risk of such complications is significantly reduced.
- Motivation for a Healthier Lifestyle: For many, the improved appearance and increased comfort post-surgery serve as motivation to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet.
- Long-Lasting Results: Unlike non-surgical treatments that often require ongoing maintenance, the results of excess skin removal surgery are typically long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight.
- Psychological Closure: For individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight, removing excess skin can be the final step in their weight loss journey, providing a sense of closure and a new beginning.
Can Excess Skin Removal Surgery Help You?
Excess Skin Removal Surgery is a specialised procedure designed for individuals who have undergone significant changes to their body weight, which has resulted in loose, sagging skin that cannot be remedied through conventional means like diet and exercise. This surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution; rather, it caters to specific needs and circumstances. Here are the categories of people who might consider excess skin removal surgery:
- Post-Weight Loss Patients: One of the most common reasons for seeking excess skin removal is significant weight loss. After shedding a large amount of weight, especially in a short period, the skin may lack the elasticity to conform to the reduced body size. This is often the case for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery or those who have lost weight through lifestyle changes.
- Post-Pregnancy Women: Pregnancy can drastically change a woman’s body. After childbirth, many women find that their skin has stretched and hasn’t returned to its pre-pregnancy state. While some degree of recovery can occur naturally, for many, excess skin remains, particularly around the abdomen, breasts, and thighs.
- Ageing Individuals: As we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity. For some, this can lead to significant skin sag, particularly in areas like the arms, neck, and face. Those who are looking to rejuvenate their appearance and reduce the effects of ageing might opt for excess skin removal surgeries.
- Individuals with Genetic Predispositions: Some people are genetically predisposed to have less elastic skin or to carry weight in a way that stretches the skin. For these individuals, even moderate weight fluctuations can result in sagging skin.
- People Seeking Improved Mobility and Comfort: Excess skin can be more than a cosmetic concern; it can also cause physical discomfort and hinder mobility. In such cases, removing the excess skin can significantly improve the quality of life.
Different Types of Skin Removal Surgery after Weightloss
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
This procedure is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. It’s particularly popular among post-pregnancy women and those who have experienced significant weight loss.
Panniculectomy
This surgery specifically removes the ‘apron’ of skin that can hang over the abdominal area, often seen in individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight. Unlike a tummy tuck, a panniculectomy does not tighten the abdominal muscles.
Lower Body Lift
A Lower Body Lift is a comprehensive procedure that targets the abdomen, buttocks, lower back, and thighs all at once. This is often chosen by individuals who have undergone massive weight loss and have excess skin in multiple areas of the lower body.
Breast Reduction Surgery
A Breast Reduction reduces excess skin around the breast. The procedure lifts and reshapes the breasts to improve their appearance.
Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
An Arm Lift targets the upper arms, removing excess skin and fat that can cause a ‘batwing’ appearance. This is a common concern for individuals who have lost a lot of weight and are left with sagging skin on their arms.
Thigh Lift
This procedure focuses on the inner and outer thighs. It is ideal for those who have loose, excess skin as a result of weight loss or natural ageing. A Thigh Lift can help to contour the thighs, making them appear more toned and proportionate to the rest of the body.
Buttock Lift
A Buttock Lift is designed to improve the appearance of the buttocks by removing excess skin and lifting the buttocks. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight.
Facelift and Neck Lift:
These procedures address sagging skin in the face and neck, often resulting from ageing or weight loss. They can help to restore a more youthful appearance by tightening the skin and reducing wrinkles and jowls.
How Is Excess Skin Removal Surgery Performed?
The specifics of how excess skin removal surgery is performed can vary greatly depending on the type of procedure and the individual patient’s needs. However, there are some common steps and techniques used in these surgeries:/
- Consultation and Planning: Before any surgery, you will have a detailed consultation with Anthony. During this time, Anthony will assess your skin, discuss their goals, and develop a surgical plan. This may include taking photographs and discussing potential risks and outcomes.
- Anaesthesia: Excess skin removal surgeries are performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you are asleep during the procedure. In some cases, local anaesthesia with sedation may be used.
- Incisions: Anthony will make incisions in the predetermined areas. The size and placement of these incisions depend on the amount of skin to be removed and the specific area being targeted. Anthony aims to place incisions in areas where they can be hidden by clothing and natural body contours.
- Removing Excess Skin and Fat: Through these incisions, Anthony will remove excess skin and may also remove or reposition fat. In some procedures, such as Abdominoplasty, the underlying muscles may be tightened as well.
- Closing the Incisions: Once the excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is pulled tight, and the incisions are closed with sutures. In some cases, drains may be placed to remove excess fluid and reduce swelling.
- Recovery: After the surgery, you will need time to recover. This can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the extent of the surgery. You will receive instructions on how to care for the incisions, manage pain, and when they can return to normal activities.
- Follow-Up: Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the healing process and address any concerns. The final results of the surgery may not be fully apparent until several months after the procedure, as swelling decreases and the skin settles into its new position.
Excess skin removal surgeries are complex procedures that require a high level of skill and expertise. They can significantly improve your appearance and quality of life, but it’s important to have realistic expectations and to understand the risks and recovery process involved.
Excess Skin Removal Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery and aftercare following excess skin removal surgery are critical components of the journey towards achieving the desired aesthetic results. This phase requires careful management to ensure optimal healing and to minimise the risk of complications. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect during the recovery period:
- Immediate Post-Operative Period: After the surgery, you will spend some time in a recovery room where medical staff can monitor vital signs and manage pain. Depending on the extent of the surgery, a hospital stay may be required.
- Pain Management: Patients will experience some degree of discomfort and pain, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. It’s important to follow Anthony’s instructions regarding medication to ensure effective pain management and avoid complications.
- Drain Management: In some cases, Anthony may place drains to remove excess fluid from the surgical site. You will be instructed on how to care for these drains, including emptying and measuring the fluid.
- Wound Care: Proper care of the surgical incisions is crucial for healing. This includes keeping the area clean, applying prescribed ointments, and changing dressings as instructed. You should also be aware of signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.
- Activity Restrictions: You will be advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a period of time. It’s important to follow these guidelines to prevent strain on the surgical sites and ensure proper healing.
- Compression Garments: Many types of excess skin removal surgeries require the use of compression garments. These garments help reduce swelling and support the new body contours. Patients will be instructed on how long to wear these garments.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and can take several weeks to subside. Keeping the surgical area elevated and using cold compresses can help reduce swelling.
- Nutrition and Hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for healing. You should focus on a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals and ensure adequate fluid intake.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the healing process. During these visits, Anthony will check the incisions, assess swelling and bruising, and make recommendations for ongoing care.
- Emotional Well-Being: It’s normal to experience a range of emotions after surgery, including anxiety or frustration during the recovery process. You should seek support from friends, family, or professional counsellors if needed.
- Long-Term Care: Once the initial recovery period is over, you should continue to care for your skin with moisturisers and sun protection. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle is also important to preserve the results of the surgery.
How Much Is Body Contouring Surgery in the UK?
The total cost of Body Contouring Surgery in the UK depends on the type of procedure being performed and can range from £10,00 to £35,000.
These prices are influenced by numerous factors including the surgeon’s training & experience, the complexity of the operation, the type of anaesthesia, the facility used and the post-op and follow-up care you receive. After your consultation, you will be given an estimate of the costs for a procedure tailored to your needs. It’s also important to ensure that all these necessary items are listed on the quote you receive.
As every patient is different, you will receive a customised quote valid for 3 months after your thorough consultation.
Your total Body Contouring Cost will include:
- Surgeon’s Fee (covering your surgery and your post-op and follow-up consultations)
- Assistant Fee
- Anaesthetist Fee
- Hospital Fee
For a rough estimate please contact Anthony’s team by phone or email.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
When is the ideal time to undergo Excess Skin Removal Surgery after significant weight loss?
The best time to consider this surgery is once your weight has stabilised. In most cases, Anthony recommends waiting at least 12-18 months after reaching your weight loss goal to ensure that your weight is stable and to allow your skin to adapt as much as possible naturally. This waiting period also gives you time to strengthen your body through nutrition and exercise, which can aid in recovery post-surgery.
Can Excess Skin Removal Surgery help in losing more weight?
While the primary goal of this surgery is not weight loss, patients often experience a minor reduction in their weight due to the removal of excess skin and some fatty tissue. However, it’s important to note that this surgery is more about body contouring and improving the shape and tone of the underlying tissue.
How long do the results of Excess Skin Removal Surgery last?
The results of this surgery can be long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight and adhere to a healthy lifestyle. Ageing will naturally cause some changes over time, but the improvements from the surgery are generally permanent.
What should I consider when choosing a surgeon for Excess Skin Removal Surgery?
It’s crucial to choose a surgeon who is highly qualified in plastic surgery and has extensive experience in body contouring procedures. Look for a surgeon who can provide before-and-after photos of their work.
Additionally, consider the level of comfort and trust you feel with the surgeon during consultations, as clear communication and understanding are key to achieving the best results.
What are the Risks and Potential Complications of Skin Removal Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, Excess Skin Removal Surgery carries risks and potential complications.
It’s important to be aware of these risks to make an informed decision about undergoing surgery.
Some of the common risks include:
- Scarring: Incisions from the surgery will result in scars. While Anthony makes an effort to place incisions in less visible areas, the extent and visibility of scarring can vary.
- Infection: There’s a risk of infection at the incision sites. Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth, and discharge. Infections require prompt medical treatment.
- Bleeding and Haematoma: Bleeding under the skin (haematoma) can occur, which may require additional surgery to drain the accumulated blood.
- Seroma Formation: Accumulation of fluid at the surgical site (seroma) is a common complication. This may require drainage and can affect the healing process.
- Numbness or Changes in Sensation: Patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation near the surgical sites.
- Asymmetry: There may be asymmetry in the contours or shape of the body after surgery, which might require additional procedures to correct.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: These are rare but serious complications where blood clots form in the legs and can travel to the lungs.
- Anaesthesia Risks: General anaesthesia carries its own risks, such as allergic reactions and respiratory issues.
- Poor Wound Healing: Some patients may experience delayed healing due to factors like smoking, poor nutritional status, or medical conditions.
- Need for Revision Surgery: In some cases, additional surgery may be required to correct or improve the results.
It’s essential to discuss these risks thoroughly with Anthony and to understand that while complications are possible, they are not guaranteed to occur.
Your surgeon will take steps to minimise risks and manage any complications that arise. You should also follow all pre and post-operative instructions to reduce the likelihood of complications.
It is vital to avoid smoking and prevent infection especially with post-weight loss skin removal surgeries.
Medical References about Excess Skin Removal Surgery
- Skin removal surgery: Types, recovery, and what to expect – Medical News Today
- Skin Removal Surgery Post Weight Loss– American Board of Cosmetic Surgery
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) – NHS
- Body Contouring – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Body Contouring Following Massive Weight Loss – PMC
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
After having a Gastric Bypass back in May 2019 from struggling with my weight and eating disorders my whole life, I lost over 9 stone and was left with a lot of excess skin that completely destroyed my confidence. Although I had lost all this weight, I still felt a prisoner in my own body. And at only 20 at the time, the pressures of my appearance decided everything that I did and didn’t do and I wasn’t living a life I wanted to live.
I decided that plastic surgery would be the best option. I went to the Spire in Bristol to have my Bypass and had a great experience and therefore already trusted the people there. When looking on their website for surgeons I saw Anthony’s and looked on his website and he seemed like the best person for me. I wasn’t wrong, when I went in for my consultation he was super lovely and friendly and I could tell I was in good hands.
I decided to go for an Abdominoplasty and Mastopexy with fat grafting. With originally wanting breast implants, I was best advised by Anthony that long term that probably wouldn’t be the best option for me personally, but he was very flexible and committed to achieving the best results possible and with it still being what I wanted and with realistic expectations. This put my mind at ease as I could tell that my wellbeing as a person was top priority.
With now being 11 weeks post-op, I am ecstatic with the results! I can now wear things that I could only dream of in the past and am able to do things that bring quality to my life. I now have confidence that I never thought I would be able to achieve. I can say that alongside my Bypass it is the best thing I have done in my life.
I am so incredibly grateful to Anthony and all the nurses at the Circle Bath for their amazing care and hard work. It may just be an ordinary day for them, but they have changed my life forever.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my delight and pleasure at my new revived abdomen. I consulted with Mr MacQuillan regarding an ongoing problem of a pendulous abdomen caused by childbirth some years ago. I lived with this embarrassing and ugly condition for many years and only lately decided to “take the plunge”
Mr Macquillan was an absolute star! He explained the procedure in some detail, and informed me of the risks, I made the decision that this was the only way forward and having been fully informed by him was admitted to the Spire hospital in Bristol.
My care at the Spire was extremely good, I was well cared for and had a wonderful anaesthetist.
I expected to feel a lot of pain and was pleasantly surprised that I only suffered what I would call a degree of discomfort.
I now have a lovely shaped abdomen and wearing skirts and dresses that I could only dream of wearing a few years ago. I also have very little lower backache, which was a common problem prior to the surgery.
All I can say is a big thank you Mr MacQuillan life is a lot better now and I am much happier with my shape and skin.
29/8/17
Around Christmas time last year I decided to consult with Mr MacQuillan again (with whom Ipreviously had highly successful surgery) to discuss improvements to be made to an old scar on my neck as a result of prior spinal surgery.
Following a positive consultation in which he assured me he surgery would achieve the results I required I decided to “go ahead”. the surgery removed a great deal of excess skin and tissue, resulting in a major improvement to both my neck and lower face.
I underwent this surgery at St Joseph’s hospital in Newport and was extremely well cared for by the staff.
Eight months following surgery I am still delighted with the results and I can certainly recommend this highly talented and skilled surgeon who has a charming and highly professional manner.
I had an abdominoplasty and diastasis repair. I have had 2 children in my early 20’s and was left with excess skin which was covered in stretch marks. I am size 8/10 but have felt very uncomfortable over my ‘pouch’. I had read enough reviews from 40 y/o’s saying they had wished they did this sooner and I am glad I have.
As I work in a hospital I am aware of the complications that go on with surgery. As Mr MacQuillan is also a Peripheral Nerve Injury Surgeon I felt more at ease as perhaps it would be less likely for me to end up with any nerve damage from this procedure under a nerve injury specialist. Mr MacQuillan was actually recommended to me by several medical and non-medical colleagues due to his meticulous work and his lovely nature.
Mr MacQuillan listened to what I wanted and it was his idea to repair my diastasis also as I was not aware that this had happened.
My procedure went perfectly. I had no pain and not just because of the drugs. I was discharged after 2 nights in hospital and did not touch pain killers after that. I was back to normal within 3 weeks (no exercise until week 6).
Whenever I had a query before or after the surgery I was able to contact his secretary and very soon after speak directly to him.
I would 100% recommend him. Family and friends have all commented on what a huge difference this procedure has made and if I ever wanted anything else done in the future I know I would want it to be done by Mr MacQuillan.
Choosing Anthony for Your Body Contouring Needs
Anthony’s commitment to excellence ensures that your body contouring journey is supported by expertise, compassion, and personalised care. We understand that choosing to undergo body surgery is a significant decision, and our team is dedicated to providing you with detailed information, support, and guidance throughout the process. From the initial consultation to your recovery and beyond, we are here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals in a safe and caring environment.
To explore how our body surgery procedures can help you achieve the figure you desire, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Anthony today.
Further Reading about Body Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
- Read more about Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty
- Read more about Thigh Reduction – ThighPlasty
- Read more about Liposuction with Body Jet
- Read more about Body Lift
- Read more about Tummy Tuck
