Post Weight Loss Body Contouring

• Cosmetic Surgery
• Post Weight Loss Surgery
• Post Weight Loss Body Contouring

Medically Reviewed 5th December 2024, by Mr. Bryan Mayou (GMC: 1414396) - founder of the Cadogan Clinic and one of the world's leading plastic surgeons

What is Post Weight Loss Body Contouring?

Following significant weight loss, many people find that they are left with concerns such as excess skin and a loss of tone. As well as being a cosmetic concern, loose skin can cause discomfort through rubbing on clothing and reducing mobility. Dramatic weight loss is a huge achievement for many people, often aimed at increasing confidence, quality of life, and physical and mental health. However, for some individuals, this notable personal accomplishment is diminished by the aesthetic side effects which have arisen once their goal has been reached.  

Post Weight Loss Body Contouring is a selection of surgical procedures which address the unwanted aesthetic side effects following dramatic weight loss. Post massive weight loss surgery allows patients to regain their confidence and quality of life and to thoroughly enjoy the results of their weight loss without self-consciousness about concerns, such as loose skin or sagging breasts. Typically, Post Weight Loss Body Contouring procedures will tighten loose skin, address lost volume, smoothing and streamlining the contours of the body and breasts for a natural and proportionate shape.

Cadogan Clinic provides a wide range of Body Contouring procedures and post massive weight loss surgery options for patients who wish to address loose skin and other cosmetic concerns following significant weight loss. Our team of expert Consultant Surgeons work individually with each patient to create a bespoke surgical plan specifically targeting their concerns and achieving the highest quality surgical outcomes.  

All post massive weight loss surgery treatment plans at Cadogan Clinic are fully carried out in-house, at our award-winning clinic in Chelsea, London. Surgical consultations take place in-person in one of our welcoming and bright offices. We have three modern operating theatres within our dedicated hospital facility which host all our surgical procedures. Our permanent team of specialist surgical nurses provide comprehensive aftercare for every patient, ensuring they achieve the best surgical outcomes.  

Post Weight Loss Body Contouring Before and After

During your consultation, your surgeon will show you a range of Body Contouring and post massive weight loss surgery before and after images. These photos will show you clear examples of the results that are possible from these transformational and life changing procedures and the techniques that your surgeon specialises in.  

Your surgeon will show you images of their previous patients who had similar concerns and desired outcomes to your own. This will give you a genuine comparison to reflect on and understand the results that are possible and realistic. When looking at any post massive weight loss surgery before and after photos it is important to consider:

• Consistency – Check that the results shown in the photos are consistent in technique and quality. This will show the level of experience and expertise of the surgeon.
• Quality – Are the results high-quality with discretely placed, clean incisions, tightened even skin tone and minimal visible scarring?
• Time frame – Good before and after images should show the entire surgical process from before the procedure (usually taken at the initial consultation) and throughout the recovery process to show the quality of healing.
• Number of procedures – The surgeon should be able to show you several examples of the procedures you are considering and should have performed this procedure numerous times, consistently over a number of years.

Before and After images are a highly informative tool for any patient considering Body Contouring surgery following significant weight loss. They are an excellent guide to help you find the right surgeon to carry out your post massive weight loss surgery. It is crucial to remember that just because a surgeon is highly experienced, they may not specialise in the right techniques to achieve the results you are hoping for. You may need to speak to several surgeons while considering Body Contouring procedures to find the one you feel is most suitable for your needs. 

How Can Weight Loss Affect the Body?

Losing significant amounts of weight can impact the body and breasts in a number of ways. The severity of these effects will vary between individuals, and people may be impacted in different ways. While some individuals will find that they are impacted emotionally, others may be affected physically, experiencing loose skin rubbing on clothing, or mobility concerns. It is important to acknowledge these issues can also combine, with effects taking a physical and emotional toll. 

Loose or Excess Skin

One of the most common concerns following dramatic weight loss is loose or excess skin being left behind. As weight is gained, the overlying skin has to stretch to accommodate the increased amount of fat. During significant weight loss, as the underlying fat reduces, the skin is not always able to return to its original position and remains stretched.

This results in sagging excess skin, which can be cosmetically unappealing for some patients and cause discomfort by reducing mobility and rubbing on clothing. Sagging and loose skin can also impact the contours of the body, hanging loosely over the limbs and underlying tissues, affecting the appearance and fit of clothing. Feeling emotionally and physically uncomfortable in certain clothing or while taking part in activities such as exercise or swimming can have a deep impact on people’s confidence and result in self-consciousness. While exercise is often a crucial element of many individuals’ weight loss regimes, it can be disheartening when extreme weight loss limits the exercise that someone is able to comfortably take part in.

As weight can be lost from any area of the body, all areas of the body can be affected by loose skin, and excess skin around the abdomen is often a common concern. Loose abdominal skin can create a hanging apron of skin over the lower abdomen and upper thighs which can be uncomfortable and affect the fit of clothes.

Areas where the skin is thinner may also be impacted more severely by excess skin as thinner skin is less able to return to its original position. This includes the inner thighs and upper arms. Loose skin affecting the inner thighs can create considerable flaps of loose skin which hang down the inside of the legs which can rub uncomfortably and prevent fitted jeans or trousers from being worn. Excess skin around the upper arms hangs down when the arms are lifted and is also known as bingo wings. As well as being uncomfortable and causing rubbing, this loose skin can impact the wearing of clothing with fitted sleeves, limiting the choice of clothing an individual feels confident and happy in. 

Sagging Breasts

The appearance of the breasts is often affected by weight loss. This is because the skin needs to be able to stretch easily to accommodate for breastfeeding and they have a high level of fat. If weight is gained (either due to pregnancy or other reasons), the breasts will become larger, and the skin will stretch to enable this. Following dramatic weight loss, the skin may not be able to return to its original position after the fat has broken down.

The effect of this can be a sagging or deflated appearance of the breasts, which affects their size and position on the chest. This can have a significant impact on confidence and comfort. It may affect how clothing fits or appears and can make exercise uncomfortable or even limit mobility. 

Sagging Buttocks

Similar to the breasts, the buttocks are often impacted by weight loss as they have a high fat density with very elastic overlying skin. During significant weight loss, as the underlying fat depletes, the skin can become loose and lose its tone, resulting in sagging buttocks and a deflated appearance.

Sagging buttocks can affect the fit of jeans, trousers, exercise clothing, and swimwear. This may impact an individual’s confidence and participation in certain activities as well as their overall physical comfort. Sagging buttocks can also impact the appearance of the upper thighs as the loose skin hangs down over the backs of the upper legs. This can exacerbate the overall physical and emotional effect of the loose skin in this area. 

Stretch Marks

Although stretch marks are more typically associated with significant weight gain, they can also develop during weight loss, especially if a large amount of weight is lost very quickly. Alternatively, their appearance may be exacerbated by the loss of skin tone in an area where stretch marks have previously developed. Stretch marks are scarring caused by the skin becoming damaged and tearing as it rapidly changes shape or position. If they are in a visible area, stretch marks may cause a loss in confidence. They may also affect how people feel wearing revealing clothing such as swimwear, which may affect their participation in certain activities.

Cellulite

Cellulite can affect anyone regardless of weight, and the idea that Cellulite can be reduced through weight loss is mistaken. Cellulite is caused by the fibrous bands connecting the skin to the underlying muscle tightening unevenly. The fat which sits between the skin and the muscle collects around these bands, resulting in a puckered appearance across the skin.

Although weight loss decreases the amount of fat in the body, it won’t eradicate it completely. Your body requires some fat for protection and energy storage. Fat that remains around these tightened bands will still create an uneven skin tone, and excess skin may exacerbate the appearance of cellulite as it hangs over the tightened bands more loosely.

Cellulite can impact confidence and may prevent people from taking part in certain activities, such as exercise or swimming, where they may need to wear tight-fitting or revealing clothing. 

Can You Prevent These Side Effects from Weight Loss?

The severity of weight loss side effects will be different between individuals. Factors such as genetics and age can affect concerns such as loose skin and stretch marks. As we get older, collagen and elastin in the skin decrease, making it less able to stretch and rebound easily. Therefore, as we age, we are more likely to develop loose skin following weight loss. However, there are certain actions which may limit the side effects of weight loss which are important to consider:

• The speed of weight loss – Losing weight quickly, particularly a large amount of weight, gives the skin less time to adjust, meaning there is a higher chance of developing excess skin.
• Balancing diet and exercise – In some cases, losing weight by predominantly adjusting diet and not exercising sufficiently can lead to a condition called Sarcopenia, which is the gradual loss of muscle mass, strength and function. Including exercise (especially strength training) in any weight loss plan will help to counteract this.
• Illness – If dramatic weight loss has been prompted by illness, the tone of the skin and other concerns such as muscle atrophy may be exacerbated due to impacts on the immune system and loss of mobility. This should be discussed with your medical professional, and any procedures to address cosmetic concerns arising from the weight loss should only be carried out when it is considered safe.
• Weight loss drugs – Although the reasons are not fully understood, Semaglutide medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy can accelerate some side effects of weight loss, such as excess skin and loss of skin tone. This has given rise to the terms Ozempic butt or Ozempic body to describe the sagging of the buttocks and loose skin due to weight loss medications. If you are using any weight loss drug and have these concerns, it is important to discuss them with your doctor, as adjusting your dosage may improve your outcomes.
• Post Bariatric Surgery Side Effects – In instances where weight loss has been achieved through Bariatric Surgery, such as a Gastric Band, Gastric Balloon, or Gastric Sleeve, it is important to understand the potential risks and side effects. If you are considering Post Weight Loss Body Contouring following Bariatric Surgery, it is crucial to communicate with your Bariatric surgeon as well as your Cosmetic surgeon to ensure your safety and wellbeing are prioritised.

If you are embarking on a significant weight loss journey, it is important to speak with a medical professional who can provide guidance on the healthiest methods based on your concerns and reasons for wishing to lose weight. This will also allow them to explain the best ways to limit unwanted weight loss side effects, and allow you to prepare for any treatments or procedures you may wish to undergo once you have reached your final goal weight. 

Which Procedures Are Included in Post Weight Loss Body Contouring?

Your surgeon will discuss the best treatment options to address your concerns during your initial consultation at our award-winning clinic based in Chelsea, London. There are several surgical procedures which effectively contour the body and breasts following significant weight loss depending on the areas you wish to be treated, the severity of your concerns, and the outcome you want to achieve.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A Tummy Tuck, or an Abdominoplasty, is a skin reduction surgery that will remove loose abdominal skin, tighten belly skin, and repair damage to the abdominal muscles. This results in a toned, flat mid-section of the body with smooth, balanced contours.

There are several variations of Tummy Tuck surgery to meet different requirements, and your surgeon will discuss this with you during your consultation:

• Traditional Tummy Tuck – The Traditional Tummy Tuck will remove excess skin and repair abdominal muscle damage. It is suitable for patients who have lost moderate amounts of weight and are experiencing excess skin around their lower abdomen and waist.
• Extended Tummy Tuck – The Extended Tummy Tuck is similar to the Traditional Tummy Tuck but involves extended incisions around the hips and up the abdomen. This allows for further removal of excess skin around the hips, back and upper abdomen. Extended Abdominoplasty is suitable for patients who have a significant amount of excess skin.
• Brazilian Tummy Tuck – Also known as a Lipoabdominoplasty, the Brazilian Tummy Tuck combines the methods of an Abdominoplasty with Liposuction to remove excess fat from the abdomen as well as tightening excess skin. This procedure is suitable for patients with moderate to significant amounts of excess skin and stubborn fat they wish to address. This procedure results in a smooth, toned abdomen with enhanced contours.
• Mini Tummy Tuck – A Mini Tummy Tuck focuses on removing excess skin from the lower abdomen, specifically below the belly button. It is suited to patients who have a small to moderate amount of excess skin around the lower abdomen. The result is a streamlined, contoured abdomen. 

Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical fat removal technique, which can be used all over the body. Although fat is removed during a Liposuction procedure, it cannot be used to extract significant amounts of fat, but it can be used to contour and shape the body. For patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight, there may be some stubborn fat remaining, which impacts the shape and contours of their body.

Liposuction can be carried out as a standalone procedure or can be combined with excess skin removal surgery to enhance the final result, creating even and smooth body contours. There are different Liposuction options which your surgeon will discuss during your consultation depending on your concerns and requirements.

• Traditional Liposuction – Traditional Liposuction involves a small incision being made in the treatment area before the fat is broken up and extracted through a cannula. It is suitable for treating small, targeted areas to enhance the contours of the body.
• Water Assisted Liposuction – These methods are similar to Traditional Liposuction, but a high-pressure water jet is used to break down the fat. This makes it suitable for treating larger areas, such as the abdomen and chest.
• Laser Liposuction - Also known as Smart Lipo, this method uses laser energy to break down fat before it is extracted. This also improves the skin’s tone, which means it is often very suited to patients who have previously lost a dramatic amount of weight.
• Vaser Liposuction – Vaser Liposuction combines fat removal with ultrasound technology to break down the fat cells. It is known for being more gentle than some other Liposuction techniques but also highly precise. It also has a good reputation for body sculpting, as the ultrasound technology can improve the tone of the skin, making it another appropriate choice for patients who are addressing post weight loss concerns. 

Thigh Lift

A Thigh Lift is a surgical procedure, often carried out post massive weight loss, which enhances the contours and tone of the thighs. The surgeon will make vertical incisions down the inner thighs, and manipulate the skin to pull it tight. The excess skin is then removed using a surgical technique known as excision. This results in toned skin and a slimmer appearance to the thighs, creating a balanced and more proportionate appearance to the legs overall.

As well as being an effective surgery to get rid of excess skin, a Thigh Lift procedure can also utilise Liposuction to remove stubborn fat deposits if required. This enhances the final result, giving a smooth contour to the thighs.

During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss the best options for addressing loose skin after losing weight around your thighs. 

Arm Lift

Arm Lift surgery, also known as Arm Reduction, is a popular skin removal surgery post massive weight loss that targets loose skin around the arms, particularly the upper arms—sometimes known as bingo wings. This creates a smooth and toned contour to the arms.

During an Arm Lift, the surgeon makes incisions along the length of the upper arm before removing the excess skin and closing the incision. This results in the remaining skin being tightened and the contour of the arms being enhanced.

Before the excess skin removal, the surgeon can also use Liposuction to remove any areas of stubborn fat, enhancing the final result of your skin reduction surgery. 

Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)

A Brazilian Butt Lift procedure increases the volume and lift of the buttocks. For patients who are concerned about weight loss side effects such as Ozempic butt, a BBL is an effective surgical procedure for restoring the natural appearance of the buttocks.

Fat is extracted from different areas of the body, including the abdomen, waist, hips and thighs, before being processed to remove impurities. Using the Subgluteal Lipo Filling technique, the fat is injected into the buttocks, under the skin, and above the muscle. This is the safest method of BBL surgery. The injected fat fills out the areas of loose skin due to weight loss.

As well as enhancing the contours of the buttocks, BBL surgery also improves the contours of the body, which are treated with Liposuction as an additional benefit. Although Brazilian Butt Lift isn’t a skin removal surgery, it can improve the appearance of loose skin after losing weight by increasing the volume of the buttocks. 

Buttock Lift

Unlike BBL surgery, a Buttock Lift is an excess skin removal procedure and doesn’t involve Fat Transfer. It is suitable for patients who are considering surgery for losing excess skin post massive weight loss and who don’t want to increase the volume of their buttocks. It is also commonly combined with a Thigh Lift to produce the best surgical outcome.

The surgeon will make discrete incisions around the buttocks and cut away any excess skin. They will then manipulate the position of the buttocks to lift them higher and create a rounded shape.

For patients who are concerned about Ozempic butt or loose skin due to weight loss, a Buttock Lift is an effective loose skin surgery that enhances the appearance of the buttocks. 

Stretch Mark Removal

Often stretch mark removal is a positive secondary outcome of skin reduction surgery. As excess skin is excised during procedures such as an Abdominoplasty or Arm Lift, the stretch marks are naturally cut away.

Depending on the placement of the stretch marks, it may not always be possible for them to be removed completely during another procedure. In some instances, your surgeon may be able to remove stretch marks through a scar revision procedure. This involves carefully excising the area of skin affected by the stretch mark and rejoining the excision. However, this may still result in a scar being apparent, and depending on the placement and extent of the stretch marks, may create a less natural or flattering result.

If stretch marks are a specific concern you are hoping to address, it is important to discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation so they can factor this into your surgical treatment plan. They may discuss limitations of stretch mark removal with you, to ensure you have a realistic expectation of what can be achieved. 

Breast Augmentation

Also known as Breast Enlargement or a Boob Job, Breast Augmentation is a surgical procedure which increases the volume and enhances the shape of the breasts. Patients who are concerned about saggy skin and a deflated appearance to the breasts after weight loss typically benefit from Breast Augmentation with implants, but Fat Transfer can also be used for a more subtle result.

The surgeon will make incisions along the lower crease of the breasts and insert silicone implants. Breast implants are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, and your surgeon will help you choose the best option for your needs. The implants will restore the lost volume in the breasts, creating a fuller, rounder, more lifted appearance.

For patients who are concerned about the appearance of their breasts after losing weight, a Breast Augmentation procedure can be highly beneficial to restore confidence. 

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A Breast Lift, also known as a Mastopexy, is a surgery to get rid of excess skin around the breasts and lift their position on the chest for a lifted appearance. As well as enhancing the appearance of the breasts, a Breast Lift can also improve patient comfort in cases where sagging breasts are physically uncomfortable and prevent someone from wearing certain clothing.

The surgeon will make incisions in discrete areas around the breast before excising the excess skin. They are then able to manipulate the position of the breasts, lifting them higher on the chest. The incisions are then closed to tighten the remaining skin and keep the breasts in their new position.

In cases where patients wish to increase the volume of their breasts as well as improve the position, a surgeon can also insert breast implants during a Breast Lift procedure. This is known as an Augmented Mastopexy and suits patients who are concerned their breasts look deflated and are sagging.  

Due to the versatile nature of Breast Lift surgery, it is a highly popular procedure for patients who are concerned about their breasts after weight loss. 

Cellulite Treatment

In cases where excess skin due to weight loss is exacerbating the appearance of Cellulite, the innovative laser procedure Cellulaze can create a smooth and toned appearance to the skin. Cellulaze can be used all over the body in any area affected by Cellulite. The thighs, abdomen and breasts are the most popular areas.

Cellulaze can be performed as a standalone procedure, or alongside procedures for losing excess skin after weight loss to create a smooth and even contour in the treated area. 

Who Is Suitable for Post Weight Loss Body Contouring?

Patients who are suitable for Post Weight Loss Body Contouring will:

• Have concerns they wish to address following dramatic weight loss, such as loose skin, loss of tone and reduced volume in their buttocks and breasts
• Have reached their final goal weight and have maintained it for up to 12 months
• Be generally fit and healthy
• Understand the realistic surgical outcomes that are possible from any procedure they are considering

Your surgeon will assess your suitability for any skin reduction surgery or Post Weight Loss Body Contouring procedure during your consultation. They may ask you to follow instructions specific to your circumstances to prepare for surgery. It is crucial to follow these instructions for your safety and to achieve your desired results. 

The Benefits of Post Weight Loss Body Contouring at Cadogan Clinic

Post Weight Loss Body Contouring procedures are highly beneficial for many patients who wish to address concerns such as Ozempic side effects for weight loss:

• Reducing loose skin – Many Body Contouring procedures focus on reducing excess skin due to weight loss. Loose skin that remains following weight loss can often detract from the personal achievement of reaching a significant weight goal. Skin Reduction Surgery such as
• Abdominoplasty, Thigh Lift, Arm Lift, and Buttock Lift all improve the contours of the body and target concerns such as rubbing skin and discomfort when exercising. 
  Improved comfort and mobility – Having extensive loose skin can lead to mobility and comfort issues as the excess skin creates a barrier to moving freely. By removing this excess skin through
• Body Contouring surgery, mobility can be restored, improving comfort. 
  Improved body contours – Dramatic weight loss can affect the overall shape and contours of the body due to remaining excess skin and stubborn fat deposits. Post Weight Loss Body Contouring surgeries will create a smooth and even contour across the body enhancing the body’s overall shape.
• Improved body proportions – Following significant weight loss the proportions of the body can be affected. Body Contouring procedures are designed to create a proportionate, natural result which flatters the body.
• Bespoke surgery – Our expert consultant surgeons can treat several areas of the body in one surgery, creating a bespoke surgical treatment plan that meets your needs and achieves your desired outcomes.
• Improved confidence and quality of life – Many individuals pursue a significant weight loss journey to achieve improved confidence. Unfortunately, the potential side effects of weight loss, such as loose abdominal skin and sagging breasts after losing weight, can take away from that achievement, sometimes resulting in confidence being impacted further. Post Weight Loss Body Contouring can restore this confidence and quality of life, allowing patients to embrace the original goals of their weight loss.
• Natural, long-lasting results – Cadogan Clinic’s consultant surgeons provide the highest-quality, natural results which meet the patient’s needs and enhance the overall appearance. Every surgery achieves long-lasting results which will bring the patient high satisfaction for many years following their procedure.
• A trusted and safe clinic – Cadogan Clinic has been awarded an overall Good rating by the CQC, with our Leadership being rated Outstanding. Over 30,000 patients walk through our doors each year and we are incredibly proud to be trusted by so many people who are looking to address a variety of concerns, with the goal of improving their quality of life.

During your consultation, your surgeon will ensure they understand exactly what you are hoping to achieve from your Body Contouring procedure Post Bariatric Surgery or following dramatic weight loss. They will then be able to create the most beneficial surgical treatment plan for you and your personal concerns. 
 

What to Expect

If you choose to undergo your Post Weight Loss Body Contouring at Cadogan Clinic, our team will work with you closely at every stage to ensure you receive the highest levels of care and achieve your desired goals. 

Get in Touch

When you first contact Cadogan Clinic to enquire about Post Weight Loss Body Contouring, you will speak with one of our dedicated surgical patient advisors. They will be on hand to guide you through your whole surgical journey. The first step in your surgical journey at Cadogan Clinic will be booking your initial consultation at our clinic based in Chelsea, London. Your surgical advisor will answer any questions you have and will advise you on the best surgeon to complete your procedure and meet your needs. Before your consultation, you can contact your patient advisor at any time to ask any questions or for guidance. 

The Consultation

You will meet your surgeon for up to two in-person consultations at our award-winning clinic to discuss your Body Contouring procedure, your concerns and the results you are hoping to achieve. These consultations usually take up to an hour and your Consultant Surgeon will explain the options that are best suited to you and your concerns and the results you can expect.

We always advise that you should write down any questions you have for your surgeon ahead of your consultation. This will allow you to fully prepare and make sure that you get the most of the time with your surgeon during your consultation. If you do have any questions following your consultations, your patient advisor will be able to communicate these with your surgeon.

During your consultation, your surgeon will also take measurements and photos for your medical records and will assess your general physical and mental health. They will also discuss any preparations you need to make ahead of your surgery.

Your surgeon will send your surgical plan through to your patient advisor following your initial consultation. If your surgeon has decided you are suitable for Post Weight Loss Body Contouring your advisor discuss the surgical plan and pricing with you and offer available surgery dates You will then have a compulsory two week cooling off period to allow you to consider whether you wish to proceed with your surgery. During this two weeks, you are able to ask any questions you may have and consider the plan your surgeon has written for you. 

Leading Up to the Procedure

If you decide to proceed with your Post Weight Loss Body Contouring procedure, you will next visit the clinic on your procedure day. Before your surgery, you will be asked to follow these steps by your medical team:

• You will need to complete your pre-operative paperwork to allow your surgeon, anaesthetist and nurses to review your medical and psychological information and advise of any changes you need to make to your lifestyle during your surgical preparation.
• You will be asked to stop smoking or vaping for at least 6 weeks before your surgery. Smoking and vaping can have a negative impact on your recovery and healing. You may need to take this into account when planning your surgery date with your advisor.
• You will also be asked to cut down on your alcohol consumption as this can also negatively impact the healing and recovery process.
• Please do not take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin, or any herbal supplements as these can increase the risk of bleeding during your surgery which may lead to complications.
• You will need to organise for a friend or a family member to collect you after your Body Contouring surgery. They must be able to either drive you themselves or accompany you in a taxi, and they will need to stay with you for the first night. You must not drive yourself following your procedure.
• In the 6 hours before you arrive at the clinic, do not eat any solid food or consume any juice or milk (including tea or coffee). You may have small amounts of clear liquids such as water, or black tea and coffee up to 2 hours before you arrive at the clinic.

Following these steps during your surgical preparation will ensure your surgery goes smoothly, and also that your recovery and healing are not affected.

Your patient advisor and our Surgical Bookings Team will be in contact with you throughout the run up to your surgery to ensure you are supported and well prepared. You will receive a call the day before your surgery to confirm you are ready and answer any questions you may have. 

Your Surgery Day

You will be asked to arrive at the clinic an hour before your Body Contouring surgery has been scheduled, on the day of your procedure. You will be met by one of our specialist nurses and go into our pre-operative area in our in-house hospital facility. They will check your weight, height, heart rate, blood pressure and temperature, and ask you to put on a surgical gown and compression stockings. You will then speak with your anaesthetist and surgeon for your final preparations. Your surgeon will make any markings that are required and may take updated medical photographs and measurements.

You will then be taken into one of our state-of-the-art operating theatres, and will make yourself comfortable on the operating bed. Your anaesthetist will administer your general anaesthetic, so you are asleep throughout the Body Contouring procedure. All surgical procedures at Cadogan Clinic are carried out using TIVA (Total Intravenous Anaesthesia) which minimises post-operative sickness and nausea and allows for a faster initial recovery.

You will then undergo your Body Contouring surgery. When the surgery is completed, your surgeon will put any post-operative garments that are required on for you, and you will be taken to our recovery ward. You will wake up from the anaesthetic and our nurses will check your vital health signs. Once you have woken up and are comfortable, you will be taken into our ambulatory ward. You will have something to eat and drink and a nurse will talk you through any medication and immediate recovery steps you need to take once you leave. When you are ready, the nurses will ask your chaperone to collect you, you will be discharged, and you will leave the hospital 

Treatment Recovery

Recovery following Body Contouring surgery will depend on the combination of procedures you have undergone to address your personal concerns. It is normal to experience some mild discomfort during the first few days after your surgery, such as a feeling of pressure or tightness in the treated areas. Your surgeon and anaesthetist will have prescribed any medication you may need to ensure you remain as pain free and comfortable as possible. You will be up and moving within 24 hours and able to shower normally within 3 days.

Throughout your recovery, you will have 24-hour access to our surgical nurses via their dedicated phone line. They will be able to assist you with any questions or concerns that arise, and provide support and guidance following your surgery.

Full recovery following Body Contouring is usually between 6-8 weeks. It is important to rest for the first 7-10 day whereupon most patients are able to return to their usual routines, apart from strenuous activities. Bruising  and swelling should resolve within 2-3 weeks. You may be required to wear a post-operative compression garment for the first few weeks of your recovery to support and protect the area, aiding your healing.

One week after your surgery you will have an in-person appointment with our nurses to assess your incisions and make sure you are healing well. They will answer any questions you may have about your recovery and make sure you know how to look after your dressings and incisions effectively at home. If your surgeon has used any stitches, they will also be removed at this appointment.

Six weeks after your procedure you will meet with your surgeon again so they can check your recovery, discuss your Body Contouring results and answer any questions about your ongoing journey from that point. After six weeks your structured care plan will be concluded, but if you have any further questions or concerns, we encourage you to contact the team and speak with one of our specialist nurses. 

How to Find the Best Body Contouring Surgeon

When considering any surgical cosmetic procedure, it is crucial to find an experienced surgeon who is able to perform your surgery to the highest standards. Body Contouring procedures can be performed by either a general surgeon or a Body Contouring specialist. Although both general and specialist surgeons are qualified to carry out Body Contouring procedures following significant weight loss, there may be differences in their experience and the quality of their results which may influence your final decision.

General surgeons will be able to perform skin reduction surgery to a high standard and produce a high-quality result. However, they may not have specific experience in post massive weight loss surgery or working with patients who have experienced dramatic weight loss through medication or Bariatric Surgery and have extensive amounts of excess, loose skin in a variety of areas of their body. Body Contouring specialist surgeons will have comprehensive experience in post massive weight loss surgery, and creating surgical treatment plans for patients who wish to address multiple areas of the body at once, and who are looking to create a proportionate, balanced contour across the whole body. Being able to address the body as a whole, is a key skill in Body Contouring to ensure the final outcome is natural and flattering.  

Over the last 20 years, Cadogan Clinic has brought together a team of over 100 consultant surgeons, all specialists in their field. Our surgeons provide the highest levels of care and surgical results, and pride themselves on creating and carrying out treatment plans that meet each patient’s individual needs, effectively addressing their concerns. Our founder Mr Bryan Mayou introduced Liposuction to the UK, over 40 years ago. Since then, he has worked to pioneer and develop the field of cosmetic Body Contouring including training the next generations of surgeons and developing new techniques in this ever-growing field.

As well as their clinical work, all of Cadogan Clinic’s surgeons have worked in academic research, expanding their knowledge and experience, as well as contributing to surgical technique and patient safety. 

Words From Our Founder