Body Lift

body lift

A body lift is a surgical procedure that is designed to enhance the contours of the body by removing excess skin and fat, in order to create a more lifted, firm and streamlined appearance.

Who is a good candidate for a body lift procedure?

Body lift surgery is ideally suited for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight in a short period of time, whether as a result of bariatric surgery (i.e. Lap-Band surgery or Gastric Bypass surgery) or the more traditional method of diet and exercise.

After undergoing dramatic and rapid weight loss, the body is often unable to re-conform to its new, smaller proportions, and loose skin begins to accumulate in all areas where layers of fat previously existed. The problem of excess skin cannot be rectified through non-surgical means (i.e. exercise, topical treatments), and creates both aesthetic and emotional challenges, such as:

• Loose, drooping skin hangs awkwardly on the body, creating uneven or misshapen body contours
• Excess skin can limit mobility, leading to hygiene issues, rashes and other sores that may cause infection
• Difficult to find clothing that fits appropriately
• Often serves as an unwelcome reminder of one’s pre-weight loss physique
• Undermines the aesthetic benefits of the patient’s weight loss

HOw is a BODY LIFT Performed?

Body lifts are customizable procedures that vary in terms of scope and extensiveness, and may address one or more of the following areas: abdomen (extending around the sides to the lower back region), buttocks, groin, and thighs (inner, outer, posterior, or circumferentially). A complete lower body lift will treat the abdomen, hips, buttocks, waist, and thighs in one procedure, and may also help to improve the appearance of cellulite (dimpled skin irregularities).

Your body lift surgery will be performed under general anesthesia, and the incision placement and pattern will depend upon the amount of excess skin requiring removal, as well as the location of the treatment area(s). A complete lower body lift typically involves a circumferential incision around the body, followed by the removal of an apron of excess fat and skin, and the repositioning and tightening of the tissues. Liposuction may be employed in conjunction with your body lift if there is a significant amount of fatty tissue needing excision. Deep support sutures will be utilized within the underlying tissues to help hold the shape of the newly formed contours.

How long is a body lift recovery?

Although you will be able to see the initial improvements to your physique immediately after your body lift surgery, the final results may take a year or more to fully develop. These results should endure for many years, provided your weight remains relatively stable.