Body Lift Surgery Orange
A body lift, also called a belt lipectomy, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and repositions soft tissue around the lower torso. It is commonly considered by individuals who have experienced major weight loss-either through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes-and are left with loose, redundant skin. This surgery may address the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and outer thighs.
Dr Mark Kohout is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with more than two decades of experience. He offers body lift procedures at his clinics in both Sydney and Orange, NSW. Dr Kohout holds Australian and international qualifications and provides personalised surgical care supported by long-term follow-up.
For patients living in or near Orange, many parts of the surgical journey can be managed locally. Consultations and follow-up appointments are available at the Orange clinic. Procedures requiring hospital facilities are performed in Sydney, with pre- and post-operative care often arranged in Orange to reduce the burden of travel.
This surgery is considered reconstructive. It is not intended for cosmetic change, but rather to support physical comfort, address skin-related concerns, and assist with structural soft tissue function when non-surgical methods are no longer effective.
Considering the Role of Body Lift Surgery in Orange
Assessing Suitability for a Body Lift in Orange
Not every patient who experiences excess skin after weight loss will be clinically suited to body lift surgery. Determining suitability involves a detailed review of medical history, current health status, and the anatomical areas of concern. At Dr Mark Kohout’s Orange clinic, patients can undergo this assessment locally, reducing the need to travel for initial consultations.
Below are the common criteria that are considered when evaluating a patient for body lift surgery:
- Stable weight over time
A body lift is most appropriate for individuals whose weight has remained steady for at least six months. Ongoing weight changes may impact both the surgical plan and long-term outcomes. - Significant skin laxity or redundant tissue
The procedure is often considered when excess skin causes physical discomfort, chafing, hygiene challenges, or restricts mobility in the lower torso region. - Good general health
Patients should be free of active infections or uncontrolled medical conditions that could interfere with surgery or healing. This includes conditions like poorly managed diabetes or cardiovascular issues. - Non-smoker or willing to cease smoking
Smoking can significantly impact wound healing and increase surgical risk. Patients may need to stop smoking for a defined period before and after surgery. - Understanding of surgical risks and recovery
As with any major surgery, body lift procedures involve risks. Suitability also depends on a patient’s ability to follow post-operative instructions and attend follow-up appointments. - Completed weight loss journey
Body lift surgery is not a method for weight loss. It is typically considered once a patient has reached and maintained their target weight.
During the consultation at the Orange clinic, Dr Kohout conducts a full medical evaluation and physical examination to determine whether body lift surgery is appropriate. In some cases, further investigations or referrals may be needed before proceeding.
Surgical Techniques in Body Lift Procedures
A body lift involves the removal of excess skin and repositioning of soft tissue in the lower torso. The exact surgical approach depends on the location and extent of skin laxity, the patient’s anatomy, and overall health. For patients in Orange, initial planning and follow-up can often be managed locally, with surgery performed at a hospital facility in Sydney where required.
Dr Mark Kohout uses several recognised techniques based on each patient’s needs:
- Lower Body Lift (Circumferential Lift)
Removes skin and reshapes tissue around the abdomen, flanks, buttocks, and outer thighs through an incision that runs around the lower torso.
- Extended Abdominoplasty
Addresses excess skin across the abdomen and sides, suitable for patients with skin that extends beyond the front of the abdomen.
- Posterior Lift (Buttocks)
Targets the upper buttocks and may be combined with a lateral thigh lift.
- Lateral Thigh Lift
Focuses on tightening skin along the outer thighs, often performed as part of a combined lower body lift.
Surgical plans are developed during the consultation based on the patient’s anatomy and clinical needs. In some cases, procedures may be staged over more than one operation for safety. Dr Kohout explains the surgical options clearly during the assessment, including incision placement and follow-up care options for Orange-based patients.
Undergoing Body Lift Surgery
Body lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited Sydney hospital. While consultations and follow-up can often take place in Orange, the procedure itself requires access to specific surgical and recovery facilities available in Sydney.
Here’s what patients can generally expect:
- Hospital admission and preparation
Patients are admitted a few hours before surgery. Dr Mark Kohout reviews the surgical plan and completes final markings.
- Surgery and monitoring
The procedure may take several hours, depending on complexity. It involves removing excess skin and repositioning soft tissue across the lower body.
- Post-operative care in hospital
Patients are monitored during recovery and may stay overnight or longer. Drainage tubes and compression garments are often used.
- Discharge and regional follow-up
Once cleared, patients return home with instructions for care. Most follow-up appointments for Orange patients are arranged locally.
Every aspect of the procedure is carefully planned to prioritise safety and ensure consistent care across both clinic locations.
Recovery Planning for Body Lift Surgery
Recovery from body lift surgery occurs in stages and requires a period of rest, limited activity, and follow-up care. Because this is a major procedure involving multiple areas of the body, patients are advised to plan carefully for the post-operative period, particularly those travelling from Orange to Sydney for surgery.
While every patient heals differently, the general timeline includes:
- First 1–2 weeks
Most patients remain at reduced activity during this time. Swelling, bruising, and tightness are expected. Walking is encouraged in short intervals to support circulation. Orange-based patients often remain in Sydney for a few days post-discharge before returning home. - Weeks 3–6
Light activity may resume, but lifting, bending, and strenuous movement should still be avoided. Dr Kohout may recommend the continued use of compression garments to help manage swelling. - After 6 weeks
Gradual return to more normal movement is typical. Some patients may return to work, depending on the type of job and rate of healing. Follow-up visits can usually be conducted at Dr Kohout’s Orange clinic. - 3 months and beyond
Ongoing monitoring may continue for several months. Final outcomes may not be fully visible until swelling subsides, and the tissue has settled.
For regional patients, planning for travel, home support, and time away from work is important. Dr Kohout’s team assists Orange patients in coordinating care, including travel timing, accommodation suggestions near Sydney hospitals, and scheduling local reviews when possible. Each recovery plan is tailored to the individual and discussed in detail before surgery.
Ongoing Care After Body Lift Surgery
Recovery from a body lift continues well beyond the initial post-operative period. Patients in Orange can often manage follow-up appointments locally at Dr Mark Kohout’s clinic, reducing the need for frequent travel to Sydney.
Key long-term considerations include:
- Scar care
Scars may take months to mature. Dr Kohout provides instructions on managing healing and protecting the area from tension or sun exposure. - Weight stability
Sustaining a steady weight is important. Significant changes may affect the long-term outcome of surgery. - Return to activity
Most patients gradually resume regular physical activity after recovery. Any new routines should be introduced slowly and discussed during follow-up. - Monitoring
Any unexpected changes, such as delayed healing or discomfort, should be reviewed. Dr Kohout’s team offers support from both Orange and Sydney as needed.
Long-term outcomes depend on individual healing, lifestyle, and continued care. Patients are encouraged to attend scheduled follow-up appointments and maintain general health reviews with their GP.
Before and After Photos of Body Lift Surgery
Each surgical procedure produces unique outcomes influenced by factors such as body composition, skin tone, laxity, age, and genetics. The before-and-after photographs displayed are of actual patients who have consented to having their images displayed and are provided for informational purposes only. These outcomes are specific to the individuals shown and may not be representative of all patients. Surgical procedures carry risks, and results may vary. A consultation with your surgeon will provide more personalised information about potential outcomes and risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my compression garment as a wetsuit at Lake Canobolas?
No. Compression garments are not waterproof or designed for recreational swimming. Keep them dry and use only as directed.
Will my pets notice I’ve had surgery?
Possibly. Some pets may respond to changes in your scent or movement, but they will not understand what surgery is.
Can I still participate in Orange’s scarecrow competition after a body lift?
Not immediately. Standing still for long periods in the cold might delay healing.
Will I get a new belly button?
No, it’s still your original belly button. It may look different and in some cases its position is adjusted slightly during surgery.
Is body lift surgery affected by the phases of the moon?
No medical evidence supports lunar impact on outcomes. Surgery is planned by calendar, not astrology.
What if I sneeze during surgery?
You’ll be under general anaesthesia, so sneezing won’t be an issue. The surgical team manages all involuntary responses.
Can I name my scars?
Of course. Some patients find humour in recovery by giving nicknames to their healing areas. It’s entirely up to you.
Will this procedure help improve the way my jeans fit around the waist and hips?
If excess skin was making your waistband loose, you might notice an improvement in fit over time. But results vary, and it’s best not to shop for new jeans too early in recovery.
Further Reading
- Read more about Managing Body Lift Scars
- Read more about Body Lift Surgery Gallery
Working with Dr Mark Kohout
Dr Mark Kohout is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years of experience, trained in Australia, the UK, and the United States. His work includes reconstructive and body contouring procedures such as body lift surgery, tailored to each patient’s clinical needs.
Patients in Orange and the Central West can access consultations and follow-up appointments locally, reducing the need for frequent travel. Surgery is performed in Sydney, with Dr Kohout’s team coordinating care between both locations.
His approach prioritises clear communication, individualised planning, and patient safety. From initial consultation to post-operative care, patients work directly with Dr Kohout throughout their treatment process.
Travelling to and from Orange
Transport options for surgery and follow-up care
Patients in Orange can access consultations and follow-up appointments at Dr Mark Kohout’s local clinic, while surgery is typically performed in Sydney at accredited hospital facilities. Planning transport is an important part of preparing for both the procedure and recovery.
For those travelling from Orange to Sydney for surgery, options include:
- Driving: The trip takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Patients are advised not to drive themselves after surgery and should arrange for someone else to drive or use patient transport services if available.
- Flights: Regular direct flights operate between Orange Airport and Sydney. These are suitable for shorter travel times, especially during the early recovery period.
- Train: NSW TrainLink services run daily between Orange and Sydney. While this is a longer journey, it may be a comfortable option post-recovery if lifting and walking are limited.
For patients coming into Orange from nearby areas such as Bathurst, Cowra, or Parkes for consultation or follow-up, private cars are the most common option, with train services also available. Dr Kohout’s team assists patients with timing and logistics to make travel safe and manageable at each stage of care.
Starting the Process
To begin, patients can arrange a consultation at either the Orange or Sydney clinic. During this appointment, Dr Mark Kohout will review your medical history, examine the areas of concern, and discuss whether body lift surgery may be appropriate based on your individual circumstances.
You will also receive information about:
- Surgical planning and recovery considerations
- Travel and hospital arrangements
- Costs, Medicare eligibility (if applicable), and timing
To book an appointment:
📞 1300 55 11 51
📧 info@drmarkkohout.com.au
Please specify your preferred clinic location (Orange or Sydney) when enquiring. Dr Kohout’s team will provide further guidance on the next steps.
Dr Kohout consults from his Sydney and Orange clinic:
Clinic Locations:
📍 Orange Clinic – Orange Specialist Clinic, Suite 5, 1521 Forest Rd, Orange NSW 2800
📍 Sydney Clinic – Suite 2, 37 Bay Street, Sydney NSW 2037
Places in Orange
Experienced Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Kohout
A qualified plastic surgeon who operates with care and integrity, based in central Sydney with over 20 years of experience in the cosmetic field. His extensive training and experience assures patients they are in highly trained surgical hands. Dr. Kohout is a dedicated, friendly professional who is committed to providing the high quality care, support and results, alongside his compassionate team.
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