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Article Why Body Lifts Are Booming In Australia

Dr Mark Kohout, Plastic Surgeon
July 7, 2025

17 Comments

Body lifts are booming, but what’s behind the rise in demand? A leading plastic surgeon breaks down what the procedure involves, who it’s suited to and why more Aussies are considering it.

Expert banner for Dr Mark Kohout.

Dr. Mark Kohout is a highly skilled Specialist Plastic Surgeon with more than 25 years of expertise in cosmetic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. Based in Sydney, Dr. Kohout is known for his patient-first approach, combining advanced surgical techniques with a compassionate care philosophy to deliver preferred results.

Woman in underwear with sagging skin.
Excess skin can cause many problems. Image: Canva

If you’d asked me five years ago what the most commonly requested procedure in my practice was, I would have answered without hesitation: breast surgery. Augmentations, reductions, lifts. These were the bread and butter of plastic surgery, and my practice in Sydney is no exception.

But today, there’s a new frontrunner. Almost overnight, body lifts have become one of the most in-demand procedures I perform for both men and women. And the reason is clear: the rise of weight loss medications has dramatically changed the patient landscape.

Why are body lifts on the rise?

Week after week, I consult patients (mostly men and women in their 40s and 50s) who’ve experienced significant weight loss in a relatively short period. Whether they’ve been on GLP-1 agonists, had bariatric surgery, or achieved their results through lifestyle changes, the outcome is often the same: an amazing drop in weight, but also an overwhelming amount of loose, hanging skin.

This excess skin isn’t just cosmetic; it can interfere with movement, hygiene, clothing and self-esteem. Some patients tell me that they feel like their bodies haven’t caught up with their success. 

Person stepping onto scales.
Weight loss is driving the boom in body lifts. Image: Canva

One patient in her late 40s recently told me, “I’ve finally lost the weight, but I still don’t feel like I can wear a swimsuit or look in the mirror without being reminded of how far I had to come.” For her, and many like her, body lift surgery offered more than vanity, it offered closure.

What does body lift surgery involve?

Body lift surgery is extensive, often involving a combination of multiple surgeries. These include abdominoplasty, buttock lift, outer thigh lift, liposuction and more. Essentially, I perform five procedures in one.

It takes up to eight hours in theatre, a four-day hospital stay and six to eight weeks of recovery. But the results are dramatic. I’ve seen patients who’ve lost 40 or 50 kilograms walk out of my clinic months later with not just a new body, but a new level of confidence.

When is the best time to get a body lift?

It’s important to note this isn’t a procedure to be rushed into. I advise all patients to wait until their weight has been stable for at least six months – usually around 12 to 18 months after their initial weight loss. Surgery before this point can lead to disappointing or unpredictable results.

Body lift procedure before and after.
Body lift procedure before and after. Image: supplied

Who is the procedure suited to?

The ideal candidate is a non-smoker in good health, with a BMI under 35 and a strong understanding of both the risks and rewards of the operation. Scarring is inevitable, but I place incisions where they can be concealed by underwear or swimwear. Most patients feel the trade-off is worth it.

As a surgeon with over 25 years of experience, it’s incredibly rewarding to help someone complete their transformation. Weight loss is only half the journey, and surgical refinement, when appropriate, is the finishing touch.

For many of my patients, a body lift is not just a cosmetic procedure. It’s the final step in reclaiming their body, and their life.

Would you ever consider plastic surgery to feel more confident? Leave us a comment below.

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Comments

  • It’s sad that our bodies can get to this stage but it happens very easily. Caesarians and pregnancies are a big cause. I have been going to the local pool most mornings and find that is wonderful that there are people of every shape, age and size just getting on with it. We need to try to not be so vain and uncomfortable with ourselves.

  • While this is not something I will be looking for in the foreseeable future the rise in cosmetic surgery demand for body lifts may result in greater supply and more competutive supply for other cosmetic surgeries also. I do have a friend very interested in a body lift in future and can see the confidence benefits – she is beautiful but does not currently see that she is.

  • It’s terrifying for me personally to go under the knife for something that is optional. Being put under is always a risk and i just cant imagine putting myself through that, plus the recovery afterwards. Especially as an on the go mum! But i can see so many wonderful benefits to it as well

  • Not something I would personally have. I can understand people wanting excess skin removed if they had lost a lot of weight and have a friend who had this procedure done. She had a lot of skin removed from her body it was quite a long operation and she has scarring from it which she will have for life.

  • Well I had a skin cancer in my face removed by a plastic surgeon rather than having it removed by my GP who is also a skin cancer specialist and who could have done the procedure. The plastic surgeon is more experienced in removing cancer and reconstruct the area less visible and with less scarring. I was able to have this done under the public system, don’t know if I would have done it if I would have to pay for it myself.

  • Whilst I don’t need a body lift, I’d certainly consider a face lift! Even the best skincare products will not reduce sagging, no matter what they say. I believe timing is key and that around age 60 is the best time as the transformation will be noticeable but not extreme. I love how much these body lifts are improving women’s confidence so go for it!

  • Any major surgery is not without it’s risks, so you need to make sure you do your research and get multiple opinions before undergoing any procedures.
    I can understand after massive weight loss that you’d want to remove the excess skin, and if that gives you the confidence you need in your new body, then go for it.

  • Whilst it’s not for me I can totally understand the power behind this! If you feel happy in your body you will feel so much more happy yourself! I have a tummy that could use a lift but I’m happy with it because its a reminder of me having my beautiful babies.

  • The before and after photos are impressive.

  • I am not a candidate for this, but I think this article is helpful. It is very candid about the risks and downsides like scarring. Although I’m generally cautious about cosmetic surgery, for some people this kind of surgery could be life changing and life enhancing. Good on anyone with the courage to go ahead.

  • Personally having in-necessary surgery is not something I would consider as I am scared I wouldn’t wake up but for some it is the best and healthiest option for them. Everyone is different and they need to do what is right for them as long as they have done all the research and really considered all the factors.

  • Years ago I went and saw a plastic surgeon for this exact surgery. At the time the cost was just over $10,000. After a consult I did some deep thinking and its such a big surgery. I thought why have a surgery that I dont need for life. I opted out and I am ok with that.

  • I am too scared to undergo such a procedure, but the photos are impressive.

  • I believe confidence starts from within, but I wouldn’t completely rule out plastic surgery if it helped me feel more like myself. Everyone deserves to feel good in their own skin, and yes I would do if I have the possibility

  • I have lost massive amounts of weight numerous times and would love to have a body lift! Mainly my stomach area and breasts. But the costs and pain scares me and I don’t like the idea of a long recovery time seems super daunting. I think if I ever get to a point where my weight stabilises for long enough I’d consider it properly.

  • I would/have been considering getting a lift after having children (not sure if I will go again). It has taken a lot of work mentally and physically to accept the way my body is, but geez… I miss my pre-pregnancy body and the confidence I had once upon a time.

  • Wow, that before and after shoes and incredible difference. What an amazing procedure. I think what has warped my perception of what we should look like is my love for housewives franchises. So many stunning women, with kids, who look like they could be in their 20s. And if course we are seeing what cosmetic work can achieve, and it’s very tempting to want it for yourself

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All content on Beauty Truth is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or qualified health professional regarding any questions or concerns you have regarding your health or a medical condition before making any decisions.

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