Body contouring after weight loss · Melbourne
Upper body lift in Melbourne
An upper body lift addresses selected areas of excess skin across the upper back, sides and bra-line region. It may be considered after significant weight loss when these areas are not addressed by abdominal surgery alone.
Consultation and suitability
The distribution of skin excess, the location of folds and the scars needed to treat them are central to planning. Your weight history, health, previous operations and recovery support also matter. Treatment of the upper body may be considered within a broader body-contouring plan.
An individual consultation considers your concerns, medical history, previous treatment and the trade-offs of surgery. Bring relevant reports and a list of medicines and supplements. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice from your treating team.
Options and the operation
Treatment may involve removal of excess skin and fat through incisions across the back and sides, sometimes extending along the bra-line region. Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. Whether procedures are combined or staged and the length of hospital stay require individual planning.
Recovery and return to activity
Healing across a broad area requires time and support. Dressings, swelling and activity restrictions are part of recovery. Garment use and the timing of lifting, reaching and exercise should be tailored to the operation.
Your return to work, driving and exercise depends on the extent of treatment, the demands of your activities and how healing progresses. Follow the instructions given for your own operation. Individual suitability, recovery and outcomes vary.
Scars, risks and limitations
An upper body lift trades skin excess for permanent scars. Their length and position reflect the tissue that needs removal. Scars can widen or become raised, and some asymmetry or skin laxity may remain.
Risks include bleeding, fluid accumulation, infection, wound separation or delayed healing, fat necrosis, skin loss, altered sensation, persistent pain and the need for revision. General anaesthesia and blood clots are additional considerations, particularly when planning extensive or combined surgery.
This is an overview rather than a complete consent discussion. Surgery cannot promise a particular appearance or complete symmetry, and further treatment may sometimes be needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is an upper body lift the same as abdominoplasty?
No. It treats a different distribution of excess skin, although both may be discussed in an overall plan.
Can all body-contouring operations be done together?
Combining surgery is an individual decision. The extent of surgery and recovery burden may favour staged treatment.
Related procedures
Your next step
A consultation with Dr Yue allows you to discuss your concerns, the available options and whether treatment is appropriate for you.
Consultations in Essendon and Bundoora, Melbourne.
Book a consultationDr Brian Yue
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
FRACS MBBS BMedSci DipAnat