Restoring comfort, balance, and body confidence

Excess Skin Removal in London

Excess skin can develop after major weight loss, pregnancy, or natural ageing, often leaving areas of the body feeling heavy, uncomfortable, or difficult to dress. While these changes are a natural part of the body’s journey, they can also affect confidence and daily comfort.

At her London practice, Dr Nicki Bystrzonowski performs excess skin removal surgery with precision and care. Her approach focuses not only on restoring smooth, natural contours but also on helping patients feel more at ease in their bodies again.

With a background in both psychology and plastic surgery, Dr Nicki understands that this procedure often represents more than a physical transformation, it can be a meaningful step towards reclaiming self-assurance after years of change.

What Is Excess Skin Removal Surgery?

Excess skin removal, also known as skin excision surgery, is a procedure that removes loose or stretched skin that remains after weight loss or other body changes. It can be performed on multiple areas, including the abdomen, arms, thighs, back, and chest.

Depending on the areas affected, Dr Nicki may recommend combining treatments such as abdominoplasty, arm lift (brachioplasty), or thigh lift to achieve a balanced, natural result. The procedure is tailored to each individual’s anatomy, comfort, and recovery goals.

The aim is always to create smoother contours that look natural, improve mobility, and allow patients to wear clothing comfortably, without the physical or emotional burden of redundant skin.

Key Information

DetailSummary
Procedure Time2–5 hours depending on areas treated
AnaestheticGeneral anaesthetic
Hospital StayUsually 1–2 nights
Recovery TimeLight activity after 10–14 days; full recovery in 6–8 weeks
Compression GarmentWorn for 6 weeks to aid healing and contour
ScarringVaries by area; positioned to remain discreet and fade over time
Results VisibleImmediate improvement with refinement over several months
LongevityLong-term when weight remains stable
Follow-UpRegular review appointments with Dr Nicki to support recovery

How Excess Skin Removal Works

Consultation and Assessment

A detailed consultation with Dr Nicki Bystrzonowski begins the process. She listens to each patient’s concerns, evaluates skin quality, and recommends the most suitable treatment plan. This may involve one or several procedures depending on where the skin excess is located.

Anaesthetic and Preparation

Excess skin removal surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic. Dr Nicki marks incision lines carefully to follow the body’s natural contours, ensuring scars are positioned as discreetly as possible.

The Procedure

During surgery, excess skin and small pockets of fat are removed, and the remaining tissue is gently tightened and repositioned to create smoother, firmer contours. Dr Nicki may combine liposuction for additional refinement where necessary.

Sculpting and Closure

Once the desired contour is achieved, the skin is closed with fine sutures and dressings applied. Care is taken to maintain proportion across all treated areas, avoiding an over-corrected or tightened appearance.

Recovery and Healing

Patients are usually up and moving the day after surgery. Mild swelling and tightness are expected but gradually ease. Compression garments support the healing process and help define the new contour. Most patients return to light activities within two weeks.

Long-Term Results

Results are visible soon after surgery and continue to refine as swelling settles. For many, this procedure represents the final stage in a long journey of personal transformation, restoring comfort, confidence, and ease in everyday movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is suitable for excess skin removal surgery?
This procedure is suitable for patients who have achieved a stable, healthy weight but are left with loose or stretched skin that cannot tighten naturally. It’s common after major weight loss or pregnancy. Dr Nicki assesses each patient individually to ensure that surgery is appropriate and will safely achieve the desired improvement.
Which areas can be treated?
Excess skin removal can be performed on multiple parts of the body, including the abdomen, thighs, upper arms, back, chest, and buttocks. In some cases, several areas can be addressed in one operation for a more balanced result. The treatment plan is fully tailored to the patient’s needs.
Will there be scars?
All skin removal surgery involves some degree of scarring, but incision lines are carefully planned along natural folds or concealed within clothing lines. Over time, scars fade significantly and usually become flat and pale. Dr Nicki provides guidance on scar care to help optimise healing.
How long is the recovery period?
Most patients can resume light activity within two weeks. Swelling and tightness gradually subside over the first few weeks, with full recovery expected within six to eight weeks. Wearing compression garments helps reduce swelling and supports the new contours during healing.
Is the procedure painful?
Discomfort varies depending on the area treated but is generally well managed with prescribed pain relief. Patients describe tightness rather than sharp pain. Dr Nicki’s team provides a clear aftercare plan to ensure recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Are the results permanent?
The results are long-lasting, provided body weight remains stable. The skin will continue to age naturally, but the improved contour and firmness typically remain for many years. Maintaining a consistent lifestyle supports lasting results.
Can excess skin removal be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Many patients combine skin removal with procedures such as liposuction, abdominoplasty, or breast surgery to complete their transformation after major weight loss. Combining treatments can also streamline recovery and achieve more balanced results across the body.