View our gallery of past patient results
See our gallery of real patient results from past surgeries performed by Dr Isolde Hertess. Patient results should not be viewed as a reflection of results other patients may experience
Dr Isolde Hertess is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon offering plastic surgery on the Gold Coast with more than 30 years of surgical experience. As a trusted body contouring clinic on the Gold Coast for both aesthetic and post-weight-loss body procedures, the practice takes a personalised, honest approach to every consultation.
What Is Body Contouring?
Body contouring is a broad term encompassing a range of procedures designed to remove excess skin, reshape tissue, and improve overall body proportions. Rather than a single operation, it refers to a group of surgical options that can be used individually or, in some cases, combined depending on your goals, anatomy, and the areas you would like addressed.
A body contouring plan commonly includes:
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles, and is often considered by patients following pregnancy or significant weight loss. In some cases, a Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty may be recommended for patients with excess skin in both the vertical and horizontal directions.
Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Brachioplasty addresses loose or sagging skin along the upper arm, which can develop after weight loss or as part of the natural ageing process. Incision placement and technique depend on the amount of excess skin present.
Body Lift (Circumferential Body Lift)
A body lift addresses excess skin around the trunk, often following massive weight loss, and may involve a more extensive surgical approach than a single-area procedure.
Liposuction
Liposuction removes localised fat deposits and can be used on its own or as part of a broader body contouring plan, depending on your skin quality and the areas of concern.
Every option is discussed in detail during consultation, as the most suitable procedure, or combination of procedures, depends entirely on your anatomy, skin quality, and goals.
Planning Body Contouring on the Gold Coast
Body contouring surgery on the Gold Coast is never approached as a one-size-fits-all process. Dr Hertess will assess your skin laxity, the location and amount of excess tissue, your general health, and your surgical history before discussing which procedure, or combination of procedures, may be appropriate for you.
During your consultation, your goals and expectations are discussed openly, including what can realistically be achieved and the limitations of surgery. Your medical history is taken into account, including any previous surgery, significant weight changes, or existing scarring; these factors influence technique and recovery.
Where scarring is already present, or where a patient wishes to improve the appearance of scars from a previous procedure, laser scar removal may also be discussed as part of your broader treatment plan.
More than 30 years of experience, female support Dr Isolde Hertess – Plastic Surgeon
Dr Isolde Hertess is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon (FRACS (Plast)), offering a female perspective and more than 30 years of experience across aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. As a recognised body contouring specialist on the Gold Coast, Dr Hertess is known for her educational leadership, evidence-based approach, and commitment to honest, individualised advice.
Dr Hertess also treats concerns beyond the body, including breast surgery through her role as a breast surgeon, and facial procedures such as upper blepharoplasty. Patients considering non-surgical skin improvements alongside their body procedure may also discuss laser skin treatment options during consultation.
Who Is Body Contouring Surgery For?
Body contouring may be considered by patients who have noticed excess or loose skin that has not resolved with diet and exercise alone. It is often discussed for a range of circumstances, including:
- You have experienced significant weight loss and are left with excess skin
- You have noticed changes to your abdomen, arms, or body shape following pregnancy
- You are bothered by loose skin that affects clothing fit or comfort
- You have stable weight and realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve
As with all surgery, your suitability depends on your general health and specific risk factors. Weight should generally be stable before proceeding, and smoking or vaping increases the risk of delayed wound healing. It is essential that you provide a complete and honest medical history so that Dr Hertess can give you appropriate guidance.
If you are searching for a body contouring clinic on the Gold Coast, Dr Hertess will talk you through what is realistic for your body, the risks involved, and whether a single procedure or a staged approach may be more appropriate for your circumstances.
Recovery After Body Contouring Surgery
Recovery varies significantly depending on which procedure, or combination of procedures, is performed. In the early period, you can expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort, and your movement will usually be restricted while the area heals.
Recovery from more extensive procedures, such as a body lift or a combined abdominoplasty, generally takes longer than recovery from a single, smaller-area procedure, such as liposuction. You will be given detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments, and it is important to follow this guidance closely to support healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Final results continue to develop over several months as swelling settles and scars mature, so it can take time before your body’s final shape and contour becomes clear.
Body Contouring Surgery Risks
All surgery carries risk, and body contouring on the Gold Coast includes both general surgical risks and risks specific to the individual procedures involved. Results cannot be guaranteed, and it is important to understand the potential complications before proceeding.
General surgical risks may include:
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Infection Fluid collection (seroma)
- Blood clots
- Wound healing problems
- Scars that may be thicker, wider, or more noticeable than expected
- Changes in skin sensation
- Anaesthetic risks
Procedure-specific risks may include:
- Asymmetry
- Irregularities in body contour
- Skin laxity recurrence over time
- Fluid accumulation requiring drainage
- The need for revision surgery in the future
Before deciding to proceed, your individual risk profile should be discussed in detail, as it depends on your health history, the procedure chosen, and the extent of the surgery.
