Body Lift

See Our 3D Explanation of a Body Lift


A body lift is a procedure that can remove excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, buttocks, groin region, and thigh area. A body lift works well for people who have poor skin elasticity which results in loose, sagging skin and uneven contours; specifically, a body lift is an excellent option for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight.

Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, you will meet with with one of our plastic surgeons and your patient-care coordinator. They will carefully and completely review your health history and perform a thorough exam. We may also ask to take photographs for your medical records. We will discuss with you the risks, benefits, and potential complications as well as explain in detail what the procedure entails.

Procedure

This procedure will take between four and five-and-a-half hours and will require general anesthesia. Once you are under, one of our plastic surgeons will perform a circumferential incision around the body to remove an apron of excess skin and fat, then tighten and reposition the remaining tissue, and finally, suture and dress the incisions. Following your procedure, deep sutures will continue to support the underlying tissue, assisting it in forming to the new lines of your body. Because of this post-surgical action, while you will notice results almost immediately, you will continue to experience positive changes for up to two years.

It is important to understand that this procedure will leave you with permanent incision marks; however we are committed to working with you diligently to reduce the appearance of these scars. Even though our doctors utilizes the most advanced fading techniques, the visibility of remaining marks depends on three things: time, your genetic makeup, and how well you take care of your incisions, the latter on which we will provide you with specific instructions.

Recovery

Post-operatively you will have small tubes placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluids—these drains will be removed in approximately ten days. You will also be required to wear compression garments to reduce swelling and support your new shape for two to four weeks after surgery. Regarding post-surgical discomfort, any pain you experience will be controlled with prescribed pain medication to ensure you are at ease during your recovery. Finally, as far as resuming your normal schedule, most patients return to work (intensity-level dependent) between two and four weeks following surgery and resume their exercise routine in about six weeks post-op.

Risks

Although complications are rare, they do occur on occasion and can include hematoma, seromas, infection, symmetrical irregularities, and dimpling. Because of our advanced training and methodical technique, complications are unlikely, as are revisions; most importantly, we have never experienced a life-threatening surgical complication. Because of his commitment to patient safety and satisfaction, we will not perform this procedure unless a patient has completely quit smoking for at least three months pre-operatively, as smoking significantly increases your risk of complications and interferes with wound healing.