What is Post-Weight-Loss Surgery?
Significant weight loss can leave excess skin in several areas. Options may include tummy tuck, body lift, arm lift, thigh lift, breast surgery and liposuction where appropriate. A consultation decides the right sequence and combination.
Who is it for? People who have lost a large amount of weight (through lifestyle or bariatric surgery), have kept it stable and have excess skin in one or more areas.
- Anaesthesia
- General anaesthesia
- Hospital stay
- Depends on the procedure
- Recovery
- Usually 2–4 weeks per stage
- Results
- Planned in stages over months
Procedures that may be included
- Tummy tuck or body lift
- Arm lift and thigh lift
- Breast lift or reduction
- Liposuction where appropriate
Your surgery journey
- 1
Consultation with the surgeon: goals, anatomy, options and risks
- 2
Pre-operative assessment and tests
- 3
Surgery at an accredited facility
- 4
Recovery with clear aftercare instructions
- 5
Follow-up visits to check healing and results
Safety and risks
Like any surgery, this procedure carries risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry and anaesthesia-related complications. Staging procedures safely and optimising nutrition before surgery are important after major weight loss. Your surgeon will explain your individual risks and how they are minimised.
Frequently asked questions
Am I a good candidate?
Good candidates are in good general health, non-smokers (or willing to stop), with realistic expectations. Your surgeon decides after assessment.
Which area should be done first?
Usually the area that bothers you most; your surgeon plans the safest sequence.
How long after bariatric surgery?
Usually once weight has been stable for 6 months or more, often 12–18 months after surgery.
Will I have scars?
Yes — the trade-off is a better contour; scars fade over time.
Surgical procedures require a surgeon consultation and pre-operative assessment. Results and risks vary between individuals.