Body Lift Surgery
Dramatic weight loss is a remarkable achievement; however, substantial weight loss often results in skin and tissue laxity throughout the body. Sagging skin and unwanted fat in the abdomen, hips, thighs, and upper buttocks may be corrected with body lift surgery. A body lift improves the quality of the underlying tissue and removes excess tissues that do not respond to diet and exercise. Patients who undergo body lift surgery can celebrate their weight loss with a tighter silhouette that reflects their hard work.
“I want you to know that you guys are the best. Your professionalism and compassion made may surgery a lot easier. Dr. T, your hands are magic gifts and I’m so thankful.”
How Is a Body Lift Performed?
A standard body lift involves a circumferential incision around the torso. A ring of excess tissue is removed below the incision, the underlying tissues are tightened and repositioned, and the lateral thighs and buttocks are lifted. There are several options to address any remaining issues:
- Abdominoplasty: Should abdominal contouring be necessary, abdominoplasty may be performed to tighten the stomach muscles and surrounding tissues.
- Inner Thigh Lift: An inner thigh lift can be combined with a body lift procedure to correct laxity in the inner thighs that is not affected by the standard body lift. Usually, only a medial thigh lift is necessary.
- Liposuction: Many patients benefit from combining body lift surgery with liposuction. Liposuction smooths out uneven fat deposits, and it allows for contouring away from the body lift incision site.
Natural Results Aimed at Transforming Your Body
When Will I See My Body Lift Results?
Results are immediately noticeable, but it may take two years or longer to see the final outcome. The body contouring, skin tightening, and tissue removal that result from body lift surgery are permanent, providing you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some scars will be visible, but most can be covered by clothing. Many patients report that the scars are a small price to pay for the overall benefits of body lift surgery, as the improvements have an incredibly positive effect on quality of life and confidence.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects Associated With Body Lift Surgery?
As with any surgery, there are some risks involved with body lift surgery. These include:
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Infection
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Poor wound healing
- Nerve damage
- Changes in skin sensation or color
- Asymmetry
- Scarring
- Contour irregularities
- Damage to deeper structures
- Persistent swelling
Frequently Asked Questions About Body Lift Surgery
How should I prepare for my body lift?
Body lift patients should be at a point where they have maintained their weight loss for several months. Before your body lift surgery, you will be required to stop smoking and vaping, as all nicotine use increases your complication risk during and after the procedure. You will also be asked to stop taking anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning herbal supplements.
To help prepare for your body lift recovery, we suggest planning adequate time away from work and your daily obligations and filling all of your post-operative prescriptions.
How does a body lift differ from a tummy tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery addresses excess skin, fat, and separated muscles in the abdomen. A body lift addresses skin laxity around the circumference of the midsection, including the waist, thighs, and buttocks. A body lift is often chosen by patients who have experienced significant weight loss and have loose skin around the entirety of their midsection.
Will my body lift results be permanent?
Your body lift results will be permanent, barring significant weight gain or future pregnancies. Any weight gain can cause the skin to stretch and fat pockets to develop. Additionally, many people develop some skin laxity with age; however, this will not be equivalent to the laxity experienced before your body lift surgery. You can help protect your results by maintaining a stable weight.
Should I combine my body lift with other procedures?
Body lift patients often choose to combine their surgery with liposuction of the surrounding areas. Patients may also choose to include a breast lift (to address sagging breasts) or an arm lift (to contour the upper arms).
Body Lift Consultation
Dr. Thompson can help you determine whether body lift surgery is right for you during your personal consultation. If you are considering this procedure, please request your consultation with us by calling (732) 410-4789 or by completing our online contact form today.
“As always Dr. Thompson and the staff are awesome. They have answers to all your questions and make you feel at home, lets not forget the fact that no matter what you get done you will be happy with the results.”
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Don’t wait any longer to look and feel your best.
Dr. Thompson will work with you to design your personalized aesthetic goals. Call 732-410-4789 today to schedule your consultation or fill out the form below.