Published on 29 July 2026
After losing an incredible 10 stone, Rachel decided that turning 50 was the perfect time to do something for herself. She chose to undergo excess skin removal surgery at Benenden Hospital which turned out to be a truly life-changing decision. Since the procedure, Rachel feels more comfortable in her day-to-day life, with improvements in everything from everyday movement to exercise. Read on to discover Rachel’s inspiring story.
Why did you decide to get excess skin removal surgery?
“I decided to get surgery because I had lost 10 stone in weight and after having had four children I had a lot of excess skin. I had heavy sagging skin around my abdomen and ‘empty’ hanging breasts."
How was your excess skin impacting your everyday life?
"I could wear clothes that were much smaller in size, but I still had to hide my stomach with looser fitting clothes. I could not wear jeans, skirts or dresses as it was too uncomfortable and they also looked terrible on me.
Exercising was also difficult. I was very self-conscious of how I looked and decided at the age of 50 I was going to do something positive for myself!”
Why did you choose Benenden Hospital for your surgery?
Location
“I chose Benenden Hospital primarily because it was within driving distance and I didn’t want to use public transport after surgery using a London hospital. I did lots of research and even thought about going abroad, but I needed the reassurance of local aftercare and that were I to develop any complications that I would have help nearby."
Webinar
“I also watched a free webinar by Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, Mr Simon Mackey before I met him and knew that the surgeon and location was right for me.”
What happened during your first and second consultations?
“During my consultations Mr Mackey listened to what I wanted to achieve. He agreed with me that I should lose my final two stone to get to my preferred target weight before operating. I was fully assessed and all options were discussed - I received a follow up summary and clear costing.
"On the second consultation he walked me through the whole procedure and any associated risks which I was happy with. Provisional operation dates were discussed to fit in with my work and life schedule.”
How did you feel on the day of your surgery?
“I had waited a long time to get to this point, so on the day of surgery I was overwhelmed with excitement. I didn’t have any second thoughts or hesitation. The staff were lovely and keen to hear my story, and I felt totally relaxed and at ease.”
How were you supported during your recovery?
“The aftercare has been exemplary. Mr Mackey came to personally check on me during recovery and reassured me the operation had gone smoothly. The nurses were very caring and there to help me at all times. Mr Mackey has a dedicated specialist nurse and she also came to visit me and check in. Lexie has been available via email or phone since day one to answer any queries I had about healing.
“This was a significant factor in my decision to choose Benenden Hospital, particularly due to concerns about potential complications, which made me feel uncomfortable pursuing the procedure abroad. Since the operation, I have attended two in-person follow-up appointments with Mr Mackey to ensure I am satisfied with the results.”
What improvements has your surgery made to your life?
“Having this operation, and particularly choosing Mr Mackey, has transformed my life. I can now wear clothes I never thought I could, I am so much more confident. At the age of 50, I feel like I have the body that I had when I was 18, before children and weight gain.
"I knew the surgery would be transformative, but I completely underestimated the quality and skill of what Mr Mackey has achieved - it is beyond what I ever imagined achievable.”
Would you recommend Benenden Hospital's plastic and cosmetic surgery service?
“I whole heartedly recommend Benenden Hospital and Mr Mackey, he has achieved nothing short of a miracle and the whole process from my initial consultation, the hospital environment through to the thorough aftercare has been a totally enjoyable experience.”
Excess skin removal surgery at Benenden Hospital
You can book your initial plastic and cosmetic surgery consultation through our online booking tool. To find out more about excess skin removal, breast reduction, tummy tuck surgery or our other plastic and cosmetic procedures please complete our online enquiry form, contact us via Livechat or call our Private Patient team on 01580 363158.
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