Excess Skin Removal Surgery for Men - after Massive Weight Loss
Massive weight loss is a significant and life-changing achievement that comes with its own set of challenges, including excess skin that can lead to physical discomfort and dissatisfaction with appearance. Male Excess Skin Removal surgery, expertly performed by Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan, offers a solution to this problem, enhancing your body’s appearance. This procedure is tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, ensuring results that are not just about aesthetics but also about restoring functionality and comfort.
2 to 4 hours
General
1 to 2 nights
6 weeks
Swelling can last for several months so final results are seen after 6 months.
Who Needs Male Excess Skin Removal?
Male Excess Skin Removal is an option for men who have experienced significant weight loss through either bariatric surgery, diet, exercise, or other means and are left with large amounts of loose, hanging skin. This excess skin can cause various issues, including hygiene problems, skin infections, chafing, and difficulties finding clothes that fit well. It can also lead to psychological distress and hinder the complete enjoyment of your weight loss success. If you are at or near your target weight and have been stable for at least six months, this procedure may be the next step in your journey.
Candidates for this surgery should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes. It’s crucial to consult with a specialist like Anthony to assess your suitability for the procedure and discuss your goals and expectations.
Benefits of Male Excess Skin Removal
Undergoing Male Excess Skin Removal surgery can offer multiple benefits:
- Improved Comfort: Removing excess skin reduces the discomfort and physical limitations caused by skin overhang, making daily activities and exercise easier and more enjoyable.
- Enhanced Appearance: This surgery reshapes the body to reflect your significant weight loss, resulting in a more toned and proportionate physique.
- Reduced Health Risks: By eliminating folds of skin, you lower the risk of skin infections and other health issues associated with excess skin.
- Increased Clothing Options: You’ll find it easier to fit into clothes, allowing for a broader range of styles and improving your confidence in your appearance.
- Boosted Self-Esteem: Achieving a body that better reflects your weight loss success can significantly enhance your self-image and confidence.
Types of Male Excess Skin Removal
Male Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A Tummy Tuck is one of the most common procedures for removing excess skin, particularly after significant weight loss.
This surgery involves the removal of loose skin and fat from the abdominal area and the tightening of abdominal muscles to create a firmer, flatter stomach.
It’s ideal for men who have lost a lot of weight and are left with a protruding belly or hanging skin that cannot be addressed through exercise alone.
Anthony utilises advanced techniques to minimise scarring and achieve a natural, toned appearance.
Male Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
An Arm lift addresses sagging skin on the upper arms, a common concern among weight loss patients.
This procedure removes the excess skin and fat between the elbow and the armpit, resulting in a more toned and contoured arm appearance.
The goal is to achieve a more proportionate arm shape that reflects the underlying muscle tone. Techniques vary from minimal incisions hidden in the armpit to more extensive incisions along the inner arm, depending on the amount of excess skin.
Male Thigh Lift
A Thigh Lift targets loose, hanging skin on the thighs, creating a more defined and contoured lower body. This procedure can focus on the inner thighs, outer thighs, or both, depending on your needs.
By removing excess skin and fat, a thigh lift can also help reduce chafing and discomfort, making physical activity more comfortable.
The incision patterns and techniques used will be tailored to your body and goals, ensuring the best possible aesthetic and functional outcomes.
How is Male Excess Skin Removal Performed?
The specific technique used for Male Excess Skin Removal will vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s individual needs. However, all procedures share a common goal: to remove excess skin and fat while improving the body’s contour. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Consultation: The journey begins with a thorough consultation with Anthony. During this meeting, you will discuss your medical history, goals, and expectations. This is also an opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have.
- Preparation: Prior to surgery, patients may be asked to undergo medical evaluations or adjust medications. Smoking cessation is crucial for improving healing and outcomes.
- Anaesthesia: Procedures are performed under general anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort throughout the surgery.
- Surgery: The specific steps in the surgery will depend on the type of procedure. Generally, incisions are made to remove excess skin and fat, and in some cases, underlying muscles are tightened. The incisions are then closed with sutures, skin adhesives, or clips.
- Closing the Incisions: The method of closing the incisions will be chosen to minimise scarring and promote healing.
Recovery after Male Excess Skin Removal
Recovery varies by individual and the extent of the surgery but generally follows a similar trajectory:
- Immediate Post-Op: Patients will spend time in a recovery area to be monitored. Drainage tubes may be placed to remove excess fluid, and compression garments are often required to reduce swelling.
- First Few Weeks: It is common to experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Pain can be managed with medication prescribed by Anthony. Patients are encouraged to walk as soon as possible to prevent blood clots but should avoid strenuous activities.
- Follow-Up Visits: These are crucial for monitoring healing. Any non-dissolvable stitches will be removed, and progress will be assessed.
- Long-Term Recovery: Full recovery can take several months, with final results visible once swelling has subsided and the body has fully healed. It’s important to follow all post-operative instructions and maintain a stable weight to preserve the results.
How Much Is Male Excess Skin Removal Surgery in the UK?
The cost of Male Surgery in the UK varies widely depending on the specific procedure, the complexity of the surgery, the surgeon’s experience and reputation, and the facility where the surgery is performed.
After significant weight loss, procedures such as Tummy Tuck, Arm Lift, and Thigh Lift surgery can vary significantly in price. Combined procedures or extensive body contouring can cost upwards of £5,000 to £35,000 or more, reflecting the personalised approach and complexity of these surgeries.
It’s important for patients to have a thorough consultation with Anthony to receive a detailed estimate that includes all aspects of the surgical and recovery process. Financing options and payment plans may also be available to help manage surgery costs.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
How do I know if I'm a good candidate for Male Excess Skin Removal?
A good candidate for Male Excess Skin Removal is someone who has achieved significant weight loss and has been at a stable weight for at least six months to ensure the skin has adjusted to the weight loss. Ideal candidates should be in good general health, non-smokers (or willing to quit), and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. It’s also important for candidates to be committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery to preserve the results. During your consultation, Anthony will evaluate your health history, the condition of your skin, and your aesthetic goals to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Will Male Excess Skin Removal help with weight loss?
Male Excess Skin Removal is not a weight-loss procedure. Instead, it’s designed to remove excess skin and improve the shape and tone of your body after significant weight loss has already been achieved. While the removal of excess skin and fat may result in a slight reduction in weight, the primary goal is aesthetic improvement and alleviating discomfort associated with excess skin. Patients should reach or be very close to their ideal weight before considering the surgery and view it as a complementary step to their weight loss journey.
How long will the results of my surgery last?
The results of Male Excess Skin Removal can be long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and adhere to a healthy lifestyle. Significant fluctuations in weight after the procedure can affect the outcomes, potentially leading to new areas of sagging skin. It’s also worth noting that the natural aging process can impact the skin’s elasticity over time, but the improvements from the surgery will still be evident. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are key factors in preserving the results of your surgery for many years.
Can Male Excess Skin Removal procedures be combined?
Yes, it’s common for patients to undergo multiple procedures simultaneously or in a staged approach to address excess skin in different body areas. Combining procedures can minimise the total recovery time and achieve a more harmonious body contour. For instance, a tummy tuck can be performed in conjunction with an arm lift or thigh lift, depending on the patient’s needs and overall health. Anthony will assess your specific situation and recommend the best approach to achieve your aesthetic goals while ensuring your safety and wellbeing.
What kind of support will I need during my recovery?
Recovery from Male Excess Skin Removal requires careful planning and support. You’ll need someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the first few days with basic needs, as your mobility may be limited. It’s also beneficial to have emotional support, as recovering from major surgery can be challenging not just physically but also mentally. Patients are encouraged to join support groups or seek counselling to navigate the emotional aspects of their transformation. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments with Anthony are crucial for monitoring your healing progress and addressing any concerns that may arise.
What are the risks and complications of male excess skin removal?
As with any surgical procedure, Male Excess Skin Removal comes with potential risks and complications, which may include:
- Scarring: While incisions are made in the least visible areas possible, scarring is inevitable. However, scars tend to fade over time.
- Infection: There’s a risk of infection at the incision sites, but this can be minimised with proper wound care.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected, but excessive bleeding may require intervention.
- Poor Healing: In some cases, the wounds may not heal properly, leading to additional treatments or surgeries.
- Changes in Sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation may occur.
Anthony is committed to minimising risks and ensuring the safest possible outcome for his patients. By closely following pre- and post-operative instructions, patients can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Medical References about Male Excess Skin Removal after Massive Weight Loss
- Excess Skin Removal: What It Is, Surgery, Procedures – Cleveland Clinic
- Skin removal surgery: Types, recovery, and what to expect – Medical News Today
- Three popular options for male body contouring – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Skin Removal Surgery Post Weight Loss – ABCS
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) – NHS
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
Major Weight Loss Treated with Abdominoplasty and Axillary Brachioplasty. – Bristol, GB
I cannot thank Anthony and his team enough for their excellent quality of care, kindness and professionalism. After a major weight loss a few years ago, I was left with excess skin on various parts of my upper body and abdomen. I was very reluctant to have these areas corrected surgically due to the fear of gaining large post-surgical scars. I became depressed, lost my self esteem and hated looking at myself in the mirror so I decided to see a plastic surgeon.
I had my first consultation with Anthony at the Spire hospital and was very surprised at how friendly and down to earth he was. I immediately felt at ease and was able to express my expectations and concerns about the procedures and he was so knowledgeable and understanding. I felt I could ask any silly and embarrassing questions as he was very approachable and knew exactly what I wanted.
I received first class treatment from the beginning of the operation down to the follow ups. Anthony and his secretary Margaret kept in touch to make sure I was alright. The regular follow ups were very valuable because Anthony always checked the results from the operation by examining the scars, taking photographs and comparing them. Most importantly, he always made sure that I was satisfied with the results and offered further scar revision to achieve the desired results with finesse.
The results of the operation was most definitely spectacular and beyond my expectations. The scars are tucked in such a clever way that they are barely noticeable, even when I wear sleeveless or backless dresses. I cannot stop looking at myself in the mirror and I have received many compliments from my friends and family about my figure. This was all hands down to Anthony’s talent and incredible work. Thank you so much, Anthony for your patience and hard work. I will definitely come back to you for any future cosmetic treatments.
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.
Exceptional care from a wonderful Surgeon – I am a 28 y/o Mum of 2
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.
35 Years Old, 2 Children in Close Successions and A LOT of Excess Skin
I have always been slim and followed a strict excercise regime, but after having 2 children in close succession, and an emergency c-section, I was left with considerable amounts of excess skin around my abdomen. After nearly 4 years of trying to ‘work it off’ if seemed that the slimmer I got, the worse my tummy looked – which was when I decided to enquire about surgery. During our initial conversations Anthony was really informative, and I quickly gelt at ease to move forward with full abdominoplasty, but without liposuction. Anthony was fantastic, helpful and reassuring throughout the whole procedure and 2 months on, I am absolutely thrilled with the results. The swelling has gone, the scar is nice and tidy (Anthony managed to match it up with my c-section scar so I still only have the 1 scar) and I am back in my size 10s!!! I feel just as good about my body as I did prior to my pregnancies. I can highly recommend Anthony MacQuillan for anyone who wants to feel better about themselves!
Life changing experince
Anthony MacQuillan was amazing! He was professional, friendly and exactly the person I wanted to perform my surgery. He explained the procedure thoroughly and answered every question I had (and trust me there were a lot of questions asked). Also his PA Margaret was brilliant in finding out any queries or questions that I had. Being 22 and having excess skin after losing 6 stone left me with no confidence at all, but this surgery and Anthony MacQuillan have restored my confidence finally after a long time. All the staff at st josephs hospital (Newport) were so kind and the care I received from everyone was brilliant! I cannot recommend Anthony MacQuillan enough!
Fed Up with Excess Skin After Weight Loss with my Gastric Band. Bristol, GB
I attended a routine gastric band appointment and brought up I’d like a tummy tuck to remove excess skin. The nurse asked me to hang on,left the room for a few minutes and returned with a consultant. Mr Anthony MacQuillan from that moment on made me feel so relaxed and comfortable, he’s such a caring, happy man. I attended a consultation and booked my surgery without hesitation. On the day of the surgery he came round with his big smile andtalked me through everything. When I came round he was there to tell me everything had gone well and he would see me the following morning. Next day he checked everything over and told me to take an extra day rest in the hospital. The follow up appointments and care from himself and his staff were 1st class. The results from the surgery are amazing I’m really pleased with it, the scar is already fading. I have so much more confidence now I’m really happy I met Mr MacQuillan. I’ve recommended him to a few others one of which has also had surgery that she’s really happy with. I’m now saving for a thigh lift and there is only one surgeon I will be contacting. Thank you so much Anthony MacQuillan .
27 Y/o. 150lb Weight Loss Left Excess Skin. Tummy Tuck, Breast Lift/augmentation, Armlift and Lipo
4 years ago I reached the biggest I had ever been in my life, I weighed over 23 stone (approx 320lb/145kg). I not only was at my heaviest but I was also at my lowest; I stayed at home all day, and worked from home, and just ate. After trying to change my life by losing weight the old fashioned way my knees started to go and my back would constantly hurt from just walking. I gave up and got worse.
…Until my sister became pregnant and I got worried that I would die before he graduated. I booked myself in for a gastric band. I have since lost 11 stone 7 lb in the last 3 years but I have serious amounts of excess skin that I need to get rid of. I have taken to wearing a lovely piece of ‘sucky in’ underwear every day as the skin just jiggles and is highly annoying and unflattering. I also will never, ever, under any circumstances have my arms out as I am scared I may just take off.
I have booked a consultation with a group that was recommended to me by a friend and will find out my options on 29/03/16. I am going in with the view on arm lift, lower body lift and potentially a breast augmentation, as the ‘fun bags’ are more like empty bags now. I miss my boobs. I don’t want to get a thigh lift though, they’re also a little jiggly but with tights or leggings on they’re sucked in enough and quite honestly I always had little, out of proportion, legs.
I have this strange feeling of excitement and fear about my consultation. It will hurt, I’m aware, this terrifies me. I will probably also look a little like Frankenstein’s bride, though I can always tattoo over the scars if they bother me that greatly. I need to do this though, this is the last step I need to take to the goal I have been working on for 3/4 years.
I’m hoping that someone out there has been through a similar thing and can give advice!
Updated on 29 Mar 2016:
I had my initial consultation today. Didn’t get the news I exactly wanted to hear. I may not be able to get it all done at once, which puts a massive cog in the works as I only have limited time before I never truly get time off work again!
I have two options now, the surgeon local to me for consultations and check-ups who cannot/will not combine more that 2 procedures or the surgeon I have to travel 3+ hours for who is more open to combining procedures. The plan is now to send over some pictures to both surgeons to get their initial opinions, discuss who is best suited for the job and book my next consultation. I’m swaying towards the far away surgeon, partially as he is nicknamed ‘the god of surgery’ by his patients on the company’s forums but that all could change.
Updated on 12 Jun 2016:
I’m 27, 5’5 and have lost around 150lb. My weight loss has left me with serious excess skin which thanks to this website I will be getting removed in July. I have been lurking on this website for awhile now; looking at the before & after pictures, reading peoples stories and building the courage to finally get it done myself.
After several consultations with several surgeons I am happy with the surgeon I have chosen. After my meeting a few weeks ago we have decided upon a tummy tuck, breast lift, breast augmentation (I miss my old boobs), liposuction and arm lift.
My next appointment is on June 15th; surgery is on July 16th.
Sadly I have already started packing.
Updated on 17 Jul 2016:
Surgery day
I didn’t sleep the night before, so when the alarm went off at 5am I was shattered. After an hour drive I arrived at the hospital with my partner and dad for moral support (and to carry bags).
The staff made me feel very comfortable from the outset and I was told I was heading down to surgery in an hour! Swiftly, Ian Thomas, my anesthesiologist, came in to check some details and to introduce himself. He gave me the lowdown of what was expected to happen and told me that Anthony MacQuillan would soon be in.
And soon it was indeed. I was intricately doodled on and every step of the procedure was explained along the way. I felt like I was completely aware of what was going to happen to me. Which was a great relief.
Next thing I knew I was out the door, saying my goodbyes and ‘I love yous’, and getting on the lift. Mr Thomas made me feel very comfortable as he put me under, my nervousness disappeared pretty quickly as he talked to me.
…10 hours later I was in recovery surrounded by people and feeling rather sick. Everyone did an amazing job making me feel comfortable and even surprising me with the news that my dad had waiting around the entire time for me. Mr MacQuillan and Mr Thomas both came in to see me to let me know how everything went then I was taken back to my room.
I don’t remember much past that…
Day 1
Most of today I have been sleeping. The morphine has me sleeping through everything. I have had several visits from my surgeon and the other doctors, it’s lovely to feel like they are really here for you and care that you’re feeling alright. I can’t praise the nurses highly enough either, from painkillers to chats to keep my sanity, they have just been amazing.
Throughout the day I have been feeling much better. I felt so rough this morning that I couldn’t even hold my phone or swallow water really. Now I’ve had a lovely dinner and I’m texting away on my phone to family. My arms probably hurt the most, my tummy only hurts when I try sit up or shuffle around and my breasts just feel a little like constant pressure rather than pain.
I have already had two drains removed from my arms, I can now move them properly! However, that was after the horrible ordeal of having to get out of bed. That was agony. Hopefully tomorrow won’t be so bad when I have to do the same again…
Updated on 18 Jul 2016:
Today was much better. I didn’t feel sick when I stood up. I wasn’t in complete agony when getting comfortable in bed. I haven’t even used my morphine pump much. Feeling more human again!
Updated on 19 Jul 2016:
Today has been the best day so far. Been able to get out of bed with no help. Morphine pump has been taken away. Had the catheter and the last 4 drains removed. Never have I been so proud to go pee on my own!
Now I am untethered and off the strong stuff I have officially been given the okay to go home tomorrow. Binders and dressing changed will be on first thing in the morning before getting loaded with morphine to take the edge off the journey home. Can’t wait!
I haven’t seen the full effects of the surgery yet because the mirror is high up and quite small, plus the fact I’m hunched over like a 139 year old. From the picture I’ve seen my boobs look mental, but that’s expected this early and I look a little boxy and square. I don’t know whether it is the swelling making me boxy or that is my natural shape, either way it doesn’t matter to me. Getting the surgery at all was the icing on the weight loss cake, being curvy would’ve just been the sprinkles. I’m thrilled with the results thus far.
Updated on 21 Jul 2016:
My PS came to see me again yesterday. Apparently I’m healing very well! My dressings were all changed and not a single stitch has come away, which is a surprise considering how much I had done.
I am home now, the journey home wasn’t terrible and apart from the AWFUL back pain from being so hunched over all the time I’m doing okay.
Updated on 28 Jul 2016:
Pictures from 2 week post op (Saturday 23rd). Walking for more than 5 minutes hurts my back as I’m so hunched over. I can’t get myself dressed or cook my own food. It is getting frustrating.
Along with the massive swelling that still makes me feel fat I have the biggest bruise I have ever seen in my life. I was briefly concerned it was a hematoma that would need to be drained b mutual my PS said it’s not a concern.
Why Choose Anthony MacQuillan for Your Male Surgery?
Choosing Anthony for male surgery offers numerous advantages, grounded in his expertise, patient-centred approach, and commitment to excellence:
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- Specialised Expertise: Anthony possesses extensive experience and specialised training in male cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, ensuring that he is well-versed in the unique anatomical and aesthetic considerations specific to male patients.
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- Tailored Approach: Understanding that each man has unique goals and concerns, Anthony provides personalised consultations and bespoke surgical plans designed to meet individual needs, ensuring results that are both natural and aligned with each patient’s aesthetic vision.
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- High Standards of Care: Anthony is committed to the highest standards of patient care and safety. He uses state-of-the-art techniques and technology to achieve optimal outcomes while minimising risks and ensuring a comfortable recovery process.
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- Empathetic and Confidential Service: Recognising the sensitive nature of cosmetic surgery for many men, Anthony and his team offer a supportive, confidential environment where patients can feel comfortable discussing their concerns and aspirations.
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- Comprehensive Support: From the initial consultation through recovery and beyond, Anthony provides comprehensive care and support. Patients receive detailed pre-operative and post-operative instructions, and Anthony remains accessible to address any questions or concerns that may arise.
Choosing Anthony for male surgery means entrusting your care to a surgeon who not only has the technical skill and artistic vision to achieve exceptional results but also values the importance of a supportive, patient-focused approach.
Further Reading about Male Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
- Read more about Gynaecomastia
- Read more about Male Surgical Procedures
- Read more about Male Facelift
