Excess Skin Removal Surgery

posted on:
November 20th, 2022
posted by:
Dr. Thomas Bell, MD

Many surgeries are available, such as body contouring, lifts, and tucks, to remove excess skin. Excess skin is usually a result of pregnancy, aging, or – most commonly – weight loss. Toronto Plastic Surgeons also offers male tummy tucks so everyone can achieve their aesthetic goals.

Skin Removal Surgery Cost in Toronto

If you struggle with excess, sagging skin after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, getting rid of it with diet and exercise alone is challenging. The cost of skin removal surgery is dependent on which procedures are being performed on which areas of the body. Book a consultation with Dr. Bell and his experienced team of professionals to find out which treatment plan is best for you, your goals, and your budget.

Skin Removal Surgery After Weight Loss

While you should be celebrating your achievement of losing weight and taking steps towards a more active lifestyle, excess skin presents a new challenge. Whether you want to get rid of the extra weight excess skin puts on your body or want to correct its sagging appearance, an experienced surgeon like Dr. Bell can help you achieve your excess skin surgery goals so you can finally experience the dream body you’ve always wanted (and have worked hard for).

Skin removal surgery is often performed after weight loss in the form of a body contouring procedure, addressing skin folds on legs, arms, torso, and buttocks, helping you achieve a natural, pleasing shape to your figure and improving self-confidence.

Panniculectomy

A panniculectomy is a surgery that is performed to remove fat and skin hanging from the stomach area. The excess fat and skin are often a result of losing a large amount of weight, and your stomach will be sore/swollen for the first week after surgery. Your stomach skin will also be numb for several weeks to months, but when you are fully healed, you can enjoy a flatter, more manageable stomach area when trying on clothes, exercising, or boosting your self-confidence.

For more information on how tummy tuck differs from this procedure, read our comprehensive guide on tummy tuck vs panniculectomy.

Common Types of Skin Removal Surgeries

When you opt for skin removal surgery, knowing which areas the procedure can be performed on and what will occur during that procedure is best. Below are the most common excess skin removal surgeries performed by Dr. Bell.

Tummy Tuck Surgery

Tummy tuck surgery, also called an abdominoplasty, is performed on belly fat and excess skin in the abdominal region. This surgery is excellent for people who have lost a lot of weight and want to enjoy a defined look to their waist and tighten their abdominal muscles.

Body Lift

A body lift removes excess skin from the entire abdomen and lower back, typically performed to address large amounts of excess skin due to massive weight loss that is difficult to eliminate with diet and exercise alone.

Neck Lift

A neck lift is for people with sagging neck skin, often referred to as jowls, due to old age or weight loss. A neck lift not only removes excess skin in the area but can also create a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance for the patient.

Thigh Lift

A thigh lift removes excess fat and skin from the upper thighs and nearby buttocks region. Patients often seek a butt lift afterward to achieve an ideal hourglass figure.

Facelift

To get rid of excess skin on the face and achieve a rejuvenated appearance, facelifts can be performed surgically or non-surgically and give you a well-rested, youthful look. You can treat excess skin, wrinkles, and a loss of elasticity/collagen in the face. If you’re a man who wants to get rid of excess skin, consider a men’s facelift from TPS.

Arm Lift

An arm lift is often sought to treat “bingo wings” – the sagging skin and fat appearing on the arm’s lower part and jiggles when movement occurs. It is very difficult to get rid of excess skin in this area after weight loss without surgery, so the common Brachioplasty will remove excess fat and skin from the elbow to the armpit.

Breast Lift

Breasts may appear more prominent and saggier after weight loss, so if you are a more petite woman experiencing neck/shoulder pain or just someone who wants to fit into clothes better and wants your breasts to appear more lifted and youthful, a breast reduction and lift creates a much more proportionate shape for your figure.

Who is the Ideal Candidate for Excess Skin Removal Surgery?

An ideal candidate for excess skin removal surgery is someone who:

  • Has realistic expectations.
  • Is in good mental and physical health, at a stable weight.
  • Can take enough time off to recover.

FAQs

Will I Have Noticeable Scars After Skin Removal Surgery?

Scarring is a natural part of any surgical procedure, including skin removal. However, skilled surgeons work to minimize scarring by placing incisions in less visible areas and using advanced suturing techniques. Over time, scars typically fade and become less prominent. Your surgeon will advise you on proper scar care, including using silicone sheets or scar creams, to further reduce visibility. Following post-op care instructions and avoiding sun exposure can also improve the appearance of scars and help them blend with your skin tone.

How Long Will the Results of My Body Contouring Last?

The results of body contouring and skin removal surgery can be long-lasting, especially if you maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. However, factors like aging, weight fluctuations, and changes in skin elasticity can impact how long your results last. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good skincare will help extend the benefits of your surgery.

Keep in mind that while surgery can significantly enhance your appearance, the natural aging process will still continue.

What Are the Potential Risks of Post-Weight Loss Skin Removal Surgery?

As with any surgery, post-weight loss skin removal carries potential risks, including:

  • Infection: There’s always a risk of infection at the incision sites.
  • Scarring: Although efforts are made to minimize it, visible scarring is inevitable.
  • Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur.
  • Poor Wound Healing: Some individuals may experience slower healing, leading to complications.
  • Seroma: Fluid accumulation under the skin may require drainage.
  • Numbness or Sensation Changes: Temporary or permanent changes in sensation near the surgery site are possible.
  • Asymmetry: Slight differences in appearance can occur, despite the surgeon’s best efforts.
  • Anesthesia Risks: As with any procedure, reactions to anesthesia are a potential risk.

Your surgeon at Toronto Plastic Surgeons will thoroughly discuss these risks during your consultation and provide strategies to minimize them. Following all post-op care instructions and attending follow-up appointments are key to ensuring a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Toronto Plastic Surgeons

Dr. Bell has dedicated his 25 years of practice to cosmetic plastic surgery of the face and body. He prides his excellence on the harmonious balance of vision, aesthetic appearance, and patient care. He and his team are known for their skill and personalized, respectful approach to patients. Contact Dr. Bell and his team today for a consultation!

Posted by:

Dr. Thomas Bell, MD

Dr. Thomas Bell has been one of Canada’s most renowned cosmetic surgeons for 25 years. He prides his excellence on the harmonious balance of vision, aesthetic appearance, and patient care.

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