IS BODY-LIFT SURGERY FOR YOU?

A body lift surgery is performed to correct excess loose and sagging skin and irregular contours of the abdominal, thigh, buttock and groin areas. This operation can improve the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports fat and skin. Excess sagging fat and skin is removed to treat conditions caused in part by poor tissue elasticity. In addition, a body lift can improve a dimpled, irregular skin surface, commonly known as cellulite.

Body lifts are not intended strictly for the removal of excess fat. Liposuction alone can remove excess fat deposits where skin has good elasticity and is able to naturally conform to new body contours. In cases where skin elasticity is poor, a combination of liposuction and body lift techniques may be recommended.

Body lifting procedures may be appropriate for individuals who are of stable weight that is reasonably proportionate to their height and body frame. In addition, it is recommended that women considering future pregnancies postpone an abdominal body lift since pregnancy may diminish results. Body lift procedures may be performed on adults of any age who have realistic goals in mind for improvement of their body contour.

A consultation with your plastic surgeon is the first step to learn how body lifting procedures can improve your body contours. A consultation is designed to fully educate you about our body lift in a non-pressured environment, and will include:

1. A discussion of your goals and an evaluation of your individual case
2. The options available in body lift surgery
3. The likely outcomes of body lifting procedures and any risks and potential complications
4. The course of treatment recommended by your plastic surgeon

As this procedure is often performed in patients who have had a significant amount of weight loss, it is important that the weight is stable and that the patient has had proper medical evaluation and clearance. For patients who have had gastric bypass surgery, it is also recommended that they are evaluated and obtain medical clearance by their general surgeon.

Besides removing the excess skin and fat, the procedure often involves significant undermining of tissues, sometimes down to the knees, so that the lower portion of the body can be "lifted" into a more appropriate position, allowing for better contour. Once the patient is turned, the abdominal operation is performed similar to an abdominoplasty (described elsewhere on this site). Multiple drains are usually placed and you will be instructed on their care. The incisions are closed and sterile dressings are applied.

Possible risks of body lift procedures include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulations, delayed or poor wound healing, skin loss, blood clots, excessive or widened scars, numbness and other changes in skin sensation and irregular or asymmetric contour or scars. Any surgery carriers risks associated with anesthesia.

The body lift procedure is usually done with an overnight hospital stay. Once your procedure is completed, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and you may be wrapped in an elastic bandage to minimize swelling and to support your new contours as you heal. You will be instructed in how to take care of your drains and how to monitor output of each drain.

Initial healing will include swelling at the incision sites. Discomfort is common and can be controlled with medication. You will be instructed to return to light walking as soon as possible to minimize the potential for blood clots and other complications.

You must avoid bending, straining or lifting for several days. Where tightening of the abdomen or thighs is involved, your plastic surgeon may also instruct you to avoid standing fully upright and stressing any internal sutures as they heal, and to sleep with pillows elevating your knees. Follow all instructions carefully- this is essential to the success of your outcome. A return to light, normal activity is possible as soon as you feel ready, usually within two to three weeks following surgery.

Initial wound healing may take 7-14 days, after which time sutures will be removed if necessary. You will be ready to return to work and normal activity in a few weeks, so long as you do not engage in any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.

Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling dissipates and incision lines continue to improve. You must practice diligent sun protection until the healing process is fully complete. Continue to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.

THE NEW YOU:

The results of body lifts are visible almost immediately, however it may take several months for your final results to fully develop. Numbness and a firm feeling over the skin's surface will resolve over time. It may take a year or more for incision lines to refine and fade to some degree. Although permanent, these lines can usually be hidden by most clothing and swimsuits.

Your new uplifted body contours should be long lasting, provided that you maintain your weight and general fitness. As your body ages, it is natural to lose some firmness. However, most of your improvement should be relatively permanent.

The information provided above is for educational purposes only.  Individual results may vary.  A personal consultation with your plastic surgeon is the best way to gain information about your particular complaint, and about potential treatment options to address the same.