Despite losing a public battle for MCP coverage, a formerly obese central Newfoundland man has finally said goodbye to the 12 pounds of excess skin that hung around his waist like a curtain.

A few weeks ago Kevin Carter had his excess skin removed at a private clinic in Toronto. He's now back in his hometown of Botwood recovering from the surgery.

Kevin Carter with excess skin before surgery. (CBC)

"Feels amazing," exclaimed Carter. "I won't get any more infections from moisture traps or bacteria build-up. It's awesome."

Even though his midriff is still wrapped in bandages, Carter said he feel so much better.

"It used to just hang. I had to tuck it into my underwear."

Painful skin left behind

Carter lost 175 pounds, a case considered to be one of extreme weight loss, but he could never lose his overstretched skin.

The skin left behind was prone to infection. Carter also said the skin was physically and psychologically painful, a reminder of when he was obese.

Carter fought a public battle with the province to pay for the surgery, and had a doctor write a letter saying the surgery was medically necessary, but the province still said no.

Kevin Carter shows the bandages applied after his surgery in Toronto. (CBC)

Once in the public eye, Carter's story inspired people in Botwood, and others around the province, to raise money on his behalf.

A church held a bake sale and a silent auction. The Bank of Montreal opened an account so people could make donations.

"We raised close to $13,000, which funded the surgery, the flight, the hotel and medical expenses," said Carter.

He said he wants to thank the people who donated to his cause and hopes that others continue the fight for MCP coverage with the province.

"I don't need to be leading the charge but I'll certainly help in any way I can."