Excess skin removal surgery
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Plastic Surgery Queensland
Suite 2.01
Mater Private Clinic
550 Stanley Street
South Brisbane QLD 4101
Plastic Surgery Queensland
Gold Coast
109 W. Burleigh Road
Burleigh Waters QLD 4220
If you’ve lost a lot of weight, often after weight loss surgery or on your own, you might now be dealing with loose skin that gets in the way. It can rub, feel heavy, or make it hard to find clothes that fit comfortably. Some people also notice skin irritation or find it tricky to move the way they used to.
As a plastic surgeon based in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, I offer body contouring surgery to help remove this excess skin and support your body’s function. It’s not about chasing perfection; it’s about comfort, safety, and helping your body adjust after major change.
Removing excess skin after weight loss
What happens after losing a lot of weight?
If you’ve had bariatric surgery or lost a large amount of weight on your own, chances are you’re now dealing with something you didn’t expect: loose, heavy skin that gets in the way. It might rub, hang, feel uncomfortable or make it hard to wear clothes that fit properly.
Excess skin removal surgery or body contouring is a medical procedure to remove that excess skin. It’s not about perfection or making you look a certain way; it’s about helping your body feel more comfortable in its new shape. This type of plastic surgery isn’t for everyone, and it’s important to know what’s involved.
During your initial consultation, we’ll talk about your goals, your health, and whether body contouring surgery is right for you. There’s no pressure. Just honest advice, based on what’s safest for your body.
Plastic Surgeon Brisbane, BSc, MBBS, FRACS (Plast)
What is body contouring surgery?
Body contouring is an umbrella term. It’s not one operation but a tailored plan that may include several different procedures to remove excess skin and reshape parts of the body.
Some of the most common procedures after weight loss include:
- Abdominoplasty (to remove loose skin around the tummy)
- Arm lift (also called brachioplasty)
- Thigh lift
- Lower body lift
- Chest or breast reshaping
- Back or flank lift
If you’ve had bariatric surgery (like sleeve gastrectomy or bypass), we’ll also take into account any previous scars or areas of weakness when planning your surgery.
For many patients, excess skin removal surgery is part of the final stage in their weight loss journey, addressing not just appearance, but comfort and movement.
You may be suitable for this type of plastic surgery if:
- You’ve lost a large amount of weight and it’s been stable for at least 6 months
- You’re physically healthy and not planning further major weight loss or pregnancy
- The loose skin is causing you discomfort, skin irritation or functional issues
- You have realistic expectations about recovery, results, and risks
Some people choose to have multiple areas addressed at once. Others prefer to space procedures out over time. We’ll talk through all your options and what makes the most sense for your body.
We’ll also talk about whether your situation may meet the clinical criteria for a Medicare item number. In some cases, this can apply when excess skin removal is performed to address medical issues such as persistent rashes or skin irritation. A full assessment is needed to determine eligibility.
Where do you operate?
I consult from my private rooms at Mater Private Clinic and I operate as a plastic surgeon at many private hospitals in Brisbane, Queensland.
I can see Gold Coast patients from my private rooms: Shop 9/109 West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Waters. I operate at
Plastic surgery after bariatric surgery
What does body contouring surgery involve?
Every case is different, but here’s what you can generally expect.
Anaesthetic
Surgery is done under general anaesthetic. You’ll meet your anaesthetist on the day, and your stay may be overnight or longer depending on the procedure.
Incisions and skin removal
Incisions are planned carefully to remove the right amount of skin and soft tissue. We aim to place scars in areas that can be hidden where possible. Drains may be used if needed.
Closure and support
After the skin is removed and the area is reshaped, we’ll close the wounds and fit you with a surgical garment to support your recovery.
Recovery after surgery
Recovery depends on how many areas are operated on and whether procedures are staged or done together.
You may stay in hospital for 1–3 nights. You’ll be resting, walking gently, and wearing your compression garments. As your plastic surgeon, I’ll check in with you regularly.
You’ll have your first follow-up appointment. Swelling and bruising are expected. You may still have some drains in place during this time.
Most people return to light duties at work around this point. You’ll still need to avoid lifting, heavy exercise or anything that strains the wounds.
All surgery has risks. For body contouring procedures, these may include:
- Infection or bleeding
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- Wound healing delays
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- Scarring (we’ll talk about scar care)
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- Fluid collection (seroma)
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- Asymmetry or uneven contour
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- Temporary or long-term changes in sensation
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- Need for further surgery in some cases
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We’ll discuss these risks in detail during your consultation. You’ll also receive written information to review in your own time.
Working, bathing, exercising and driving?
- Go back to work? Light duties are usually okay from 3–4 weeks.
- Have a shower? Usually after 48 hours, unless advised otherwise.
- Drive? After 2–3 weeks, once you’re comfortable and off strong pain relief.
- Exercise? Gentle walking is good. Wait 6 weeks for anything high-impact.
Plastic surgeon Gold Coast and Brisbane | Dr Hadj
Let’s talk about next steps
Excess skin removal surgery isn’t about looking perfect; it’s about being more comfortable in your body and addressing real, physical concerns after major weight loss. You’ve already come a long way in your health journey, and if plastic surgery is something you’re considering, I’m here to guide you through it.
