Body contouring is a procedure which removes excess, sagging skin from various parts of the body. This excess skin can be caused by substantial weight-loss, either after bariatric surgery, following pregnancy, or from diet and exercise. It can also result from the effects of ageing, as the skin loses thickness and elasticity, the underlying fat that supports the skin thins out and levels of collagen and elastin in the skin decrease.
This is not only a cosmetic problem. The sagging can also cause chafing and rashes as the skin rubs together, and at times it results in infections, often with accompanying malodour.
Depending on your circumstances, one or more body contouring procedures may be recommended for you, possibly alongside other specialist procedures like a breast lift. These may either be performed at the same time or spread out over several months, according to your medical assessment.
It is important to reach a clear and realistic expectation of your result, and your consultations with Dr Timms will guide you through this process. Together you will discuss your concerns and desired outcomes, both medical and aesthetic. He will be able to show you what is possible, safe and realistic for your result, and develop a personalised care plan for you.
Body lift
A lower body lift (also known as a belt lipectomy) is an option when excess skin occurs all the way around the body, not just on the front of the abdomen (which could be addressed with abdominoplasty or liposuction). The procedure can also include a thigh lift, extending down to the thighs, hips and buttocks.
Arm lift (brachioplasty)
An arm lift (also called brachioplasty) is a surgical procedure performed to reduce loose, sagging skin from the upper arm. An arm lift can dramatically lift and reshape the upper arm to give you an improved aesthetic result.
Thigh lift
A thigh lift is a surgical procedure performed to tighten the inner thighs by removing excess skin and fat. A thigh lift can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures. Removing sagging skin and excess fat from the inner thighs can dramatically improve the shape of your legs. A thigh lift is often part of a lower body lift.
We recommend that you undertake a course of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) using our standalone Healite II LED both before and after surgery to improve healing time. This can also assist with pain relief and reduce inflammation, bruising and scarring. AND…please remove postoperative care.
You will wake after your surgery with dressings over your surgical site/s. Depending on the nature of the procedure you may also wake up with drainage tubes coming from your surgical site. These are removed with little discomfort when Dr Timms feels they are ready to be removed after your surgery. Nurses looking after you are trained to ensure that your recovery is smooth and that you are as comfortable as possible postoperatively. Our clinic nurse is always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have whether you are recovering at home or within the hospital setting.
Dr Timms undertakes regular ward rounds, so he will be monitoring you very closely postoperatively.
Your anaesthetist will have prescribed medication for you to keep you comfortable – you will have pain relief medication prescribed for you for discharge also.
An appointment will be made for you to be reviewed by Dr Timms nurse in the rooms 7-10 days after your surgery. This appointment is usually arranged for you at your consultation appointment with Dr Timms. Sometimes it is arranged by the nursing staff that discharge you from hospital. This depends on the nature of your procedure and the duration of your stay in hospital.
A soft surgical grade compression garment is usually indicated for breast, body and some facial procedures. These garments are to be worn for 24/7 for six weeks and can be removed for showering. These are specialised garments and we will advise you where to purchase these garments, how to wear the garments and what type you require when you book your procedure with Dr Timms. Many garments are claimable via your private health insurance depending on your level of cover and whether your procedure is medical or cosmetic.
You will need to be prepared to avoid driving for a period of anywhere between 1-3 weeks post surgery. The duration of this time depends on the nature of your surgery, medications you are taking for pain relief and your level of confidence behind the wheel post-surgery. It is advisable that you refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 6 weeks.
Most activities can be recommenced after your 6 week review with Dr Timms.
If you are unhappy with a procedure you’ve received from another surgeon we are happy to consult and let you know, the best way to correct those procedures using Dr Timm’s excellent surgical expertise.
“Nothing makes me happier than the confident smile, my patients give me, when they see their results”
Dr Ian Timms