Loose skin around the knees is one of the changes after major weight loss that surgery addresses least well. That is worth saying plainly, because it is often the last area patients ask about and the one where expectations most need managing.
Why the knees are difficult
- The joint moves constantly. Any scar near the knee is under repeated tension, so it widens more readily than almost anywhere else.
- There is nowhere to hide a scar. No fold, no waistband, no bra line. A scar near the knee is visible in shorts and swimwear.
- The skin is thin and, after weight loss, has little recoil.
- Swelling settles slowly in the lower limb, so results take longer to judge.
What actually helps
| Approach | What it achieves |
|---|---|
| Vertical thigh lift | The excision runs down the inner thigh towards the knee, which lifts the skin above the knee. The most useful option for most patients |
| Liposuction of the inner knee | Where there is a genuine fat pad with reasonable skin, this reduces bulk |
| Direct excision at the knee | Occasionally considered, accepting a visible scar in a difficult place |
| Nothing | A legitimate answer, and often the right one |
In practice, addressing the thigh usually improves the knee area as a consequence, and that is the sensible order: treat the thigh, see where the knee sits afterwards, then decide.
What will not work
Exercise builds the muscle above and below but does not shrink a skin envelope. Skin-tightening devices do not remove skin. Further weight loss empties the area further and makes it hang more. Why liposuction alone will not fix loose skin.
Medicare
Item 30169 covers removal of redundant non-abdominal skin for functional problems following significant weight loss. The threshold is a functional problem such as recurrent rash, skin breakdown or interference with daily activity, not appearance. Loose skin at the knee alone often does not meet it; the same skin as part of a thigh problem more often does. The full criteria.
The honest position
Dr Kumar would rather tell you at consultation that the knee is the area he can do least for than operate and leave you with a visible scar and a modest change. Where a thigh lift is planned, the knee area is part of that conversation. Where it is the only concern, expect a frank discussion about whether surgery is worth it for you.
Recovery, if surgery is done
As for thigh surgery: two weeks off work, a gradual return over the following four weeks, full clearance at around twelve. A compression garment is worn for six weeks and drains are used. Lower limb swelling is slow to settle — several months rather than several weeks. The week-by-week timeline.
Common questions
Can the skin above my knee be removed on its own? Occasionally, accepting a visible scar. It is not usually the first choice.
Will a thigh lift help my knees? Usually, to a degree, by lifting the skin above them.
Will exercise fix it? No, though it improves the shape of the leg overall.
Is it worth doing? That is the question to put directly to Dr Kumar at consultation, and to expect a direct answer to.
Next step
Bring a GP referral — it is required to see Dr Kumar — and raise the knees as part of a discussion about the legs rather than in isolation. You can send photos first if you are travelling. Call 1300 267 726. More about loose skin on the thighs, and timing at My Weight Loss Journey.
The initial consultation with Dr Kumar is $400, with a Medicare rebate of approximately $88 where you have a GP referral. Surgical fees are quoted individually after your consultation, in a written itemised quote.
All surgery carries risks, and individual results will vary. Read more about the risks of surgery here. A GP referral is required to see Dr Kumar.
Dr Rohit Kumar (MED0001630444) Registered medical practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialist registration in surgery – plastic surgery).
