Understanding body contouring

What does body contouring mean?

Body contouring is an umbrella term for procedures that can remove excess skin and reshape supporting tissue after substantial weight loss. A surgeon may discuss different areas, including the abdomen, upper arms, thighs or chest, depending on your needs.

The name of a procedure does not tell you whether it is right for you. Ask what the operation would involve in your own circumstances and what alternatives are available.

Together or in stages?

Some procedures may be discussed together or in stages. Whether either approach is appropriate depends on your health, the proposed operations and the team's safety assessment. There is no universal package or fixed number of operations.

Ask why a plan is recommended, how long it may take, what happens if it changes, and whether it is reasonable to choose fewer procedures or none.

Risks and trade-offs

All surgery carries risk. Depending on the procedure, possible complications include bleeding, infection, wound-healing problems, fluid collection, blood clots, changes in sensation and scars. The clinical team should explain risks relevant to you.

A discussion should also cover anaesthesia, expected scars, possible further procedures, recovery needs and the limits of the expected result.

Questions to bring

• What is the goal of each proposed procedure?
• What are the likely scars and the possible complications?
• Would a staged approach or no operation be reasonable for me?
• Who will care for me if a complication occurs?