FAQ

Yes. At present, there are no non-surgical treatments proven to effectively tighten large areas of loose skin. Skin becomes lax due to stretching, ageing, and gravity, and after significant weight loss, excess skin often remains. Areas with thinner dermal support, such as the arms, thighs, eyelids, and neck, are more likely to sag. Surgery can remove and tighten excess skin, though this involves permanent scarring at the sites of removal. Where possible, scars are placed along natural crease lines or areas concealed by clothing.

The number of operations required depends on the areas of concern and the patient’s goals. The most commonly requested operations after major weight loss include abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and mastopexy (breast lift). Brachioplasty, thigh lift, and face and neck lift procedures are also frequently considered. Operations are usually planned in segments of less than six hours to reduce risks such as blood loss, hypothermia, pressure areas, and deep vein thrombosis.

Some procedures, such as belt lipectomy and thigh lift, are typically performed as stand-alone operations because they affect mobility during recovery. Your surgeon will recommend a plan tailored to your health, priorities, and recovery capacity.

Most body contouring procedures are long operations that result in significant scarring and require two to four weeks of downtime. Swelling, tiredness, and reduced energy can persist for weeks, as the body directs resources to healing. Recovery is usually quicker for shorter procedures or those involving the upper body (breasts, arms, face). Larger procedures such as abdominoplasty, body lift, or thigh lift take longer due to the greater surface area of tissue healing.

Most patients return to work about three weeks after surgery and resume normal exercise by six weeks. Recovery time varies widely between individuals and is influenced by overall health, previous surgical experiences, and the type of operation performed.

All surgery carries risks. For healthy patients, the risks of body contouring procedures are generally low, as these operations involve removing and reshaping skin and fat rather than operating in internal organ cavities. Risks include bleeding, infection, wound healing problems, scarring, blood clots, and complications related to anaesthesia. Your surgeon will explain the risks relevant to your procedure and how these may be affected by your medical history. The benefits of any procedure must always be weighed against its risks.

Plastic surgery can improve physical concerns such as excess skin, skin infections, and difficulty with clothing or mobility. It is important, however, to have realistic expectations. Results vary depending on age, skin quality, extent of weight loss, and other factors. Surgery does not stop the natural ageing process. Your surgeon will provide advice on what is achievable for you.

You can have surgery in a private hospital without private health insurance, but in this case you will be responsible for the hospital fees in addition to the surgeon and anaesthetist’s fees. Private health insurance often reduces costs, as it may cover hospital charges and part of the doctors’ fees.

Some body contouring procedures after weight loss have Medicare item numbers (such as 30169, 30177, and 30179), meaning they may be eligible for health fund rebates if you meet the clinical criteria. Cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation and facelift are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance.

Surgical costs vary internationally. In Australia, hospitals and practitioners must meet strict standards for training, safety, and infection control. Surgery performed overseas may not provide the same level of regulation, and follow-up care can be difficult if complications occur after returning home. Travel for surgery also increases risks such as wound infection and blood clots.

Patients considering overseas surgery should carefully research the qualifications of surgeons, the accreditation of hospitals, and the arrangements for aftercare before making a decision.

Yes, many patients travel within Australia to undergo surgery with plastic and reconstructive surgeons based in capital cities. Ideally, patients should have an in-person consultation with their surgeon before surgery to allow for assessment and planning. Additional follow-up can be provided through telehealth when appropriate, but patients are usually advised to stay in Sydney for at least one week after their operation to allow for wound care, reduce the risk of blood clots, and attend early reviews. A further follow-up appointment is typically arranged 6–12 weeks later.

Our surgeons operate at accredited hospitals in Sydney, including St George Private Hospital, St Luke’s Private Hospital, and Bondi Junction Private Hospital. Each hospital is chosen for its accreditation, facilities, and peri-operative support services. Surgical teams are selected for their training, experience, and commitment to patient care.

All surgical procedures carry risks. Outcomes vary between individuals. A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is the most reliable way to determine whether a procedure may be suitable for you.