Post Weight Loss Body Contouring Surgery in Edinburgh
Congratulations on your weight loss journey – whether through diet, exercise, bariatric surgery, or medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro. At Waterfront Hospital in Edinburgh, we understand that significant weight loss often leaves excess skin that exercise alone cannot address.
Our expert surgeons specialise in comprehensive body contouring procedures for patients throughout Scotland, helping you complete your transformation. From tummy tucks to arm lifts, breast surgery to full body lifts, we offer personalised solutions to remove excess skin, restore your body’s natural contours, and help you finally see the results of all your hard work.
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Beautiful, Immaculate & Friendly
The Waterfront is a beautiful and immaculate hospital. To me, it felt as if I were in a luxury spa. The staff are both utterly friendly and professional. The entire process was personal and seamless. Thank you.
Sandra Burns
April 2024
Overview
Post Weight Loss Surgery Edinburgh
- TYPE OF ANAESTHETIC
General - LENGTH OF SURGERY
2-6 hours depending on surgery - STAY IN HOSPITAL
day surgery, or overnight stay (partner facility) - RECOVERY
2-4 weeks off work, 6-8 weeks before strenuous exercise
What the Procedures Involve
Post-weight-loss body contouring encompasses multiple procedures that can be performed individually or in combination, depending on your needs:
Lower Body Procedures
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removes excess abdominal skin and tightens muscles
- Lower Body Lift: Addresses abdomen, buttocks, hips, and outer thighs in one procedure
- Thigh Lift: Removes excess skin from inner and/or outer thighs
Upper Body Procedures
- Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): Removes “bat wing” excess skin from upper arms
- Breast Procedures: Including lifts, reductions, or augmentation with lifts
- Back Lift: Addresses excess skin on the back and bra-line area
Facial Procedures
- Face and Neck Lift: Addresses “Ozempic face” – the gaunt appearance after rapid weight loss
- Eyelid Surgery: Corrects drooping eyelids after facial volume loss
Many patients benefit from staged procedures, allowing for optimal healing between surgeries while systematically addressing all areas of concern.
Benefits and Expected Outcomes
Post-weight-loss surgery offers transformative benefits that extend far beyond aesthetics:
Physical Benefits
- Improved Mobility: Removal of excess skin eliminates chafing and allows easier movement
- Better Hygiene: Reduces skin fold infections and irritation
- Enhanced Comfort: Clothing fits properly without excess skin interference
- Posture Improvement: Removing heavy skin flaps can alleviate back strain
Psychological Benefits
- Visible Achievement: Finally see and enjoy your weight loss results
- Renewed Confidence: Feel comfortable in fitted clothing and swimwear
- Motivation Maintenance: Seeing your true shape helps maintain healthy habits
- Emotional Closure: Complete your transformation journey
Long-Term Results
With proper maintenance of your weight and healthy lifestyle, results are long-lasting and life-changing.
Before and after post weight loss
Who is an Ideal Candidate?
Ideal candidates for post-weight-loss body contouring are individuals who:
Weight Stability
- Have maintained a stable weight for at least 6-12 months
- Are at or near their goal weight
- Have completed their weight loss journey (including tapering off GLP-1 medications if used)
Health Requirements
- Are non-smokers or willing to quit before surgery
- Have good overall health with controlled medical conditions
- Have realistic expectations about results and scarring
- Are committed to maintaining their weight loss
Specific Considerations for GLP-1 Users
- Have been off Ozempic/Mounjaro for at least 3 weeks before surgery
- Understand that continuing weight loss post-surgery may affect results
- Have addressed any nutritional deficiencies from rapid weight loss
Risks and Considerations
While post-weight-loss surgery is generally safe, it’s important to understand the unique considerations for massive weight loss patients:
Surgical Risks
- Wound Healing Issues: More common in post-bariatric patients
- Seroma Formation: Fluid collection requiring drainage
- Infection: Risk increases with multiple procedure areas
- Scarring: Extensive but strategically placed
- Blood Clots: Higher risk with longer procedures
- Anaesthesia Considerations: Previous obesity may affect anaesthetic planning
Special Considerations
- Nutritional Status: Vitamin deficiencies must be corrected pre-surgery
- Skin Quality: Rapid weight loss (common with GLP-1 medications) may affect skin elasticity
- Staged Procedures: Multiple surgeries may be necessary
- Realistic Expectations: Perfect symmetry is not always achievable
Aftercare and Recovery
Recovery from post-weight-loss surgery requires patience and careful adherence to protocols:
Immediate Post-Operative Period
- Pain management with prescribed medications
- Early mobilisation to prevent blood clots
Recovery Timeline
- Week 1-2: Rest, light walking, wound care
- Week 3-4: Gradual return to normal activities
- Week 6-8: Return to exercise (with surgeon approval)
- Months 3-6: Final results become apparent as swelling resolves
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight should I lose before considering surgery?
You should be at or near your goal weight and maintain it for at least 6 months. We recommend losing as much weight as possible before surgery, as further weight loss after surgery can compromise results.
Can I have all procedures done at once?
While some procedures can be combined, extensive surgeries are often staged for safety. Your surgeon will create a personalised surgical plan based on your needs and health status.
How do I manage scars after massive weight loss surgery?
Scars are extensive but carefully placed in natural creases or areas covered by clothing. We provide comprehensive scar management protocols including silicone sheets, massage techniques, and laser treatments if needed.
What if I’m still losing weight on Ozempic/Mounjaro?
We strongly recommend reaching and maintaining your goal weight before surgery. Continuing weight loss after surgery can lead to recurrent skin laxity and compromise your results.
How long do I need to stop GLP-1 medications before surgery?
Most surgeons recommend stopping Ozempic/Mounjaro at least 3 weeks before surgery due to their effects on gastric emptying, which can increase anaesthetic risks.
What’s the typical cost for post-weight-loss surgery in Scotland?
Costs vary significantly based on procedures needed. Single area procedures start from £6,000, while comprehensive body contouring can range from £15,000-£25,000. We offer detailed consultations to provide accurate pricing.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?
Yes, commonly combined procedures include tummy tuck with breast surgery, arm lifts, or thigh lifts. Your surgeon will advise on safe combinations based on surgery duration and your health.
What about “Ozempic face” – can you help with facial changes?
Rapid weight loss can cause facial volume loss and sagging. We offer face and neck lifts, fat transfer, and dermal fillers to restore facial contours and address premature ageing.
How do I prepare for post-weight-loss surgery?
Preparation includes:
- Nutritional optimisation (protein intake, vitamin supplementation)
- Achieving weight stability
- Stopping smoking
- Arranging post-operative support
- Completing required medical clearances
What’s the difference between a tummy tuck and lower body lift?
A tummy tuck addresses only the front abdomen, while a lower body lift continues around to address the flanks, hips, buttocks, and outer thighs – essentially a 360-degree improvement.
Will I need revision surgery in the future?
While results are long-lasting, factors like ageing, sun exposure, and any future weight fluctuations can affect outcomes. Some patients choose minor revisions years later.
Can men have post-weight-loss surgery?
Absolutely. Men commonly require chest contouring (for excess breast tissue), abdominoplasty, and body lifts after massive weight loss.
How do I maintain my results?
Maintaining stable weight through healthy diet and exercise is crucial. We provide nutritional guidance and can connect you with support services to help maintain your transformation.
What if I regain weight after surgery?
Significant weight gain can stretch the skin again and compromise results. This is why we emphasise achieving stable weight before surgery and maintaining healthy habits afterwards.
Is financing available for post-weight-loss surgery?
Yes, we offer various financing options to make your transformation accessible. Our team can discuss payment plans during your consultation to help you plan your procedures.
Author
Dr. Omar Quaba, MBBChir, FRCS (Plast), GMC 4586300, is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years of experience in plastic surgery. Based at Waterfront Private Hospital in Edinburgh, he is fully accredited on the GMC Specialist Register and specialises in advanced cosmetic procedures. Full member of BAAPS.
