Skin Reduction Surgery in Melbourne
Skin reduction surgery is a body-contouring procedure designed to remove excess skin and reshape the body after weight loss.
At Specialist Surgical Group, our Melbourne-based plastic surgeons perform skin reduction procedures on patients who have achieved weight loss through bariatric surgery, a balanced diet, or regular exercise. We utilise surgical techniques to remove excess skin and fat while tightening underlying tissues, thereby enhancing body contours and improving overall function.
This procedure addresses the challenges faced by patients undergoing weight loss, particularly those who experience persistent loose skin after weight reduction. Redundant skin can sometimes lead to difficulty with movement and exercise, and may cause skin irritation or infection. The procedure aims to improve both functional and aesthetic concerns while supporting your overall well-being.
Call us today at (03) 9466 7338 to book a consultation.
Book Consultation
Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
We are located in the heart of Essendon and Bundoora.
Is skin reduction surgery for you?
You may be a candidate if:
- You have lost weight and have excess skin. Medicare requires weight loss equivalent to at least 5 (BMI) units, with stable weight for at least six months before surgery.
- You have excess skin, causing problems such as skin conditions or irritation that haven’t improved with non-surgical treatment or skin that interferes with your daily activities.
- You’re committed to maintaining your weight. Post-surgery weight changes can affect results.
- You don’t smoke or use tobacco products. Smoking can affect wound healing and increase surgical risks.
During your initial consultation, we will assess your health, examine areas of concern, discuss your goals, and determine if skin reduction surgery is a suitable option for your specific circumstances.
Potential benefits
- Improvement in body contour and quality of life. Body contouring surgery can improve physical functioning, psychological well-being and social functioning [1].
- Enhanced physical comfort and mobility. Removing excess skin can enhance your comfort, facilitate exercise, and improve the fit of your clothing. Patients often experience reduced back strain when excess abdominal skin is removed [2].
- Improved hygiene and reduced skin complications. Removing excess skin can reduce uncomfortable chafing, skin irritation, and associated hygiene challenges [3].
- Better self-esteem and body image. Body contouring surgery can enhance patients’ body image, self-esteem, and social functioning. The procedure may improve the quality of life [4].
- Long-term results. The results of body contouring surgery can be long-lasting when you maintain a stable weight [5].
- Functional improvements in daily activities. Once excess skin is removed, you may find it easier to move around and exercise, with reduced discomfort and irritation [6].
- Multiple areas can be addressed. Skin reduction surgery encompasses various body-contouring procedures designed to address excess skin on the arms, legs, torso, and/or buttocks, thereby helping achieve improved body contours [7].
Potential risks
- Surgical complications. As with any surgery, potential risks include blood clots, bruising and swelling, changes in skin sensation, and infection [8].
- Wound healing complications. There is a risk of wound-related complications such as infections, fluid collection, or delayed healing, as surgical incisions can affect the blood supply to the area [9].
- Scarring. Skin removal surgery may result in scarring at the incision sites. Surgical techniques aim to minimise scarring and promote better healing [10].
- Anaesthetic complications. General anaesthesia carries some risks, including allergic reactions and respiratory considerations [11].
- Need for multiple procedures. Some patients may need more than one surgery to achieve their desired results, and procedures are often staged for safety [12].
- Individual risk factors. Certain factors may increase the likelihood of complications, including smoking, medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, nutritional status, medications, and activity level after surgery [13].
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Meet our plastic surgeon
Skin reduction surgery procedure
Here’s an overview of our skin reduction surgery procedure. Individual experiences may vary based on your specific circumstances and medical needs.
1. Initial assessment
You’ll meet with our plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and medical history. We’ll examine the areas you’d like treated and explain your options.
Together, we’ll determine if you’re a good candidate for surgery. This appointment provides you with the opportunity to ask questions and feel confident about your decision.
2. Pre-surgery preparation
We’ll provide clear instructions to help you prepare for surgery. This includes any required medical tests and guidance on medications.
You’ll receive information about what to expect and how to prepare your home for recovery. Our team is available to answer any questions during this time.
3. Surgery day
You’ll be admitted to our accredited hospital in Melbourne, where our experienced team will provide you with care. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, so you’ll be comfortable throughout.
Surgery time varies depending on the areas being treated. You’ll wake up in our recovery area with appropriate pain management.
4. Recovery at the hospital
You’ll stay in the hospital for monitoring and initial recovery. Our nurses will help manage your comfort and check your healing progress.
You’ll receive compression garments to support your recovery. Most patients find this time reassuring, with professional care available around the clock.
5. Recovery at home
When you’re ready for discharge, we’ll provide detailed care instructions for your home. You’ll have compression garments and any necessary supplies.
A support person should be available to help you during your first week. We’ll schedule your first follow-up appointment before you leave.
6. Follow-up care
Regular check-ups help us monitor your healing and address any concerns. We’ll guide you through a gradual return to normal activities.
Our team is available to answer any questions you may have throughout your recovery. These appointments help ensure you achieve the best possible results from your surgery.
Book a consultation today
(03) 9466 7338Skin reduction surgery FAQ
Medicare may provide coverage if you meet specific criteria, including a weight loss of at least 5 BMI units, stable weight for 6 months, and functional problems such as skin conditions that haven’t improved with non-surgical treatment. You’ll need to demonstrate that excess skin interferes with daily activities. Coverage varies by procedure type and individual circumstances [8].
Recovery varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Most patients return to desk work within 2-3 weeks and normal activities within 6-8 weeks. Full recovery can take several months. You’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least 6 weeks. Having support during the first week at home is essential.
Yes, skin reduction surgery will result in scars at the incision sites. However, surgeons place incisions strategically to minimise visibility and use techniques to promote better healing. Scars typically fade significantly over 12-18 months. Most patients find the improvement in body contour outweighs concerns about scarring [9].
Most patients experience moderate discomfort rather than severe pain. Pain is typically well-controlled with prescribed medications and decreases significantly within the first week. Some areas may feel tight or numb initially, which is a normal sensation. Your surgical team will provide comprehensive pain management strategies throughout recovery.
Private health insurance may provide partial coverage if you have appropriate hospital coverage and meet Medicare criteria. However, there will likely be out-of-pocket costs, including surgeon fees and hospital gaps. Check with your fund about waiting periods and specific coverage before booking consultations.
Your weight should be stable for at least 6 months before surgery, with no significant fluctuations expected. Most surgeons recommend being at or close to your goal weight. Significant weight changes after surgery can affect your results and may require additional procedures [11].
When performed by qualified plastic surgeons in accredited facilities, skin reduction surgery is generally safe. However, like all major surgery, it carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and anaesthetic complications. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following pre and post-operative instructions significantly reduces risks [12].
Medical disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Individual circumstances vary significantly, and nothing on this page should be used as a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified medical professional.
If you have concerns about your health, please seek medical attention promptly. To discuss your specific condition and treatment options with our team, please book a consultation by calling us at (03) 9466 7338.
References
[1] Al-Hadithy N, Mennie J, Magos T, Stewart K. Desire for body contouring surgery after bariatric surgery: do body mass index and weight loss matter? Aesthet Surg J. 2013;34(1):96-105. https://doi.org/10.1177/1090820X13514831
[2] Kitzinger HB, Cakl T, Wenger R, et al. Prospective study on complications following a lower body lift after massive weight loss. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2013;66(2):231-238. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2012.09.006
[3] Mukherjee S, Kamat S, Adegbola S, et al. Funding for post bariatric body contouring (sculpting) surgery in England: a postcode lottery. Obes Surg. 2014;24(8):1264-1269. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-014-1210-0
[4] Gilmartin J, Bath-Hextall F, Maclean J, et al. Quality of life among adults following bariatric and body contouring surgery: a systematic review. JBI Database System Rev Implement Rep. 2016;14(11):240-270. https://doi.org/10.11124/JBISRIR-2016-003182
[5] Dalaei F, de Vries CEE, Poulsen L, et al. Body Contouring Surgery After Bariatric Surgery Improves Long-Term Health-Related Quality of Life: An International Longitudinal Cohort Study. Ann Surg. 2024;279(6):1008-1017. https://doi.org/10.1097/SLA.0000000000006244
[6] Steffen KJ, King WC, White GE, et al. Changes in body contouring surgery and arm contouring requests following bariatric surgery: an analysis of the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery-2 data. Surg Obes Relat Dis. 2017;13(5):935-944. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soard.2016.11.012
[7] Giordano S, Salval A, di Summa P, Oranges CM. Evolving Body Contouring Strategies for Patients After Massive Weight Loss: Insights from Bariatric and Pharmacologic Interventions. Surgeries. 2025;6(2):42. https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries6020042
[8] Medicare Benefits Schedule – Item 30177. Australian Government Department of Health. https://www9.health.gov.au/mbs/fullDisplay.cfm?type=item&qt=ItemID&q=30177
[9] National Commissioning Guidelines: Body contouring surgery after massive weight loss. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. 2014;67(8):1076-1081. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2014.04.031
[10] Maia Correia M, Teixeira P, Barbosa MH. Body Contouring After Massive Weight Loss: A Personal Integrated Approach. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2017;41(5):1132-1145. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-017-0894-z
[11] van de Laar A, Nienhuijs S, Apers J, et al. Body Contouring Surgery After Massive Weight Loss: Excess Skin, Body Satisfaction, and Qualification for Reimbursement in a Dutch Post-Bariatric Surgery Population. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2019;143(3):724-732. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000005358
[12] Morris MP, Christopher AN, Patel V, et al. Post-bariatric body contouring: analysis of complications in 180 consecutive patients. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2023;47(4):1447-1458. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-022-03235-5