Breast contouring

Loose breast tissue can be improved by lifting and reshaping the residual breast and fatty tissue and removing excess skin.  After the excess breast and areolar skin have been reduced, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. Skin that was formerly located above the areola is brought down and together beneath it to reshape the breast. The nipples and areolae remain attached to underlying mounds of tissue, and this usually allows for the preservation of sensation and perhaps also the ability to breast-feed.

In some cases, the breast gland at the bottom of the mound is repositioned underneath the gland at the top.  This provides some improvement in the shape of the breast and improves the fullness in the upper part (auto-augmentation).

​In most cases, drains are inserted at the time of surgery and patients are required to stay in hospital overnight.  The drains are usually removed after the first night and patients are then able to go home. Post-operative pain is usually minimal and is controlled with tablets prescribed by the anaesthetist who is present for the procedure.

Contouring the arms

Arm lift (brachioplasty) is a procedure for correction of excess skin affecting the upper arms. During the operation, excess skin and fat is removed through a long incision extending from the elbow to the armpit.  A drain is inserted before skin closure and dressings before firm bandages are applied.  The procedure may be combined with liposuction or breast surgery.

Contouring the thighs

Excess loose skin from the inner thighs can be corrected through a medial thigh lift. The area for excision is usually first treated with liposuction before removal of excess skin. The wound is closed with a scar either running from knee to groin on the inside of the thigh or through an incision hidden in the inner groin crease depending on the pattern of skin excess determined pre-operatively. A surgical drain is inserted in each thigh and a firm bandage applied over the dressings.

What to expect after body contouring surgery?

Patients are encouraged to mobilise as soon as possible after surgery. The drains are usually in place for up to 7 days. Strong pain killers are rarely required after the first 24-48 hours. Patients are usually given injections to reduce the risk of clots in their legs (DVT) until they are freely mobilising.

Most patients are discharged within a few days depending on the number and type of procedures performed. They can usually return to relatively normal activities and exercise within four to six weeks. Most patients are recommended to take around two to three weeks off work after these operations depending on the physical demands of their job.

​Whilst scars are not completely predictable, most are less visible and easily concealed in time.  They may appear pink and slightly thickened for a few weeks to months after the surgery but will usually fade to be pale and soft by around three to six months.  Their final appearance may take up to eighteen months to achieve.  Rarely, scars may remain thick, red or lumpy which may warrant revision after twelve to eighteen months.

Dr Hanikeri will usually recommend topical scar therapy such as silicone tape to be used from around the fourth postoperative week, until around three months after surgery.

Risks of body contouring surgery

All surgical procedures carry some risks.  The potential risks are discussed at the initial consultation and will be outlined via your secure patient portal (TouchMD). Some risks may include:

Potential for reactions to anaesthesia, bleeding that may require surgical drainage, significant bruising and infection.

Minor asymmetries in respect of the contour and scars is normal.  There is also the possibility of residual bulges. A perfect shape cannot be restored after massive weight loss.

Wound healing problems can occur. Most wound problems are minor and can be managed with dressings.  Rarely more major wound problems such as infections, skin loss, wound separation and delayed healing can occur. If so, this will delay recovery and result in worse scarring.

Occasionally fluid will collect in the in the region of the operation (seroma).  If this occurs, it may need to be aspirated using a syringe and needle.

Alteration in the sensation of the skin in the operation is normal and may be permanent

These procedures carry a risk of blood clots in the legs (DVT) and possibly the lungs (Pulmonary embolus). Precautions are taken to reduce this risk, however if a blood clot occurs, treatment with blood thinning medication may be needed for several months. If you would like to know more about body contouring, or to request a consultation, please contact us today.

Body Contouring FAQs

Can I get surgery to remove thigh fat?

Yes, there are certain procedures that can help reduce fat in the thigh area. Thigh fat can be addressed with a procedure like liposuction, which can target the fat more directly. Thigh fat can also be addressed as part of a body contouring procedure that removes excess skin and fat, and gives the area a more sculpted appearance, but this only applies to the inner thighs.