What is a Body Lift?
A body lift is a plastic surgery procedure that corrects sagging skin that can result from the natural aging process or weight loss. This procedure is also known as a “belt lipectomy”. This procedure will lift and tighten the buttocks, the overall backside as well as the thighs, hips and abdominal area. A body lift is intended to correct sagging skin rather than excess fat.
Who Is a Candidate for a Body Lift?
If you have had dramatic weight loss or are close to, or at a healthy weight but you have excess skin that you don’t like, a body lift may be right for you. As mentioned, a body lift is not a “weight loss” procedure it is intended for correcting the loose or sagging skin that may result from weight loss or aging. Sagging skin may hang restrict mobility or even get in the way of clothing. The elimination of this excess skin has the potential to make you feel more comfortable physically and emotionally.
Characteristics of a good candidate are:
- A non-smoker or someone who can quit at least six weeks prior to surgery
- Someone who eats a healthy balanced diet
- Someone who is very close or at their goal weight
- You are in overall good health with a positive outlook about recovery
What to Expect from the Procedure
During a body lift, the patient has the benefit of getting multiple areas of the body treated during one procedure. The procedure begins much like a traditional tummy tuck, however, the incision extends all the way around the torso allowing a surgeon to lift the thighs and buttock. The scar will appear in the lower abdominal area, just above the pubic area. These scars are placed in a way that is easily hidden by clothing.
Recovery & Post Care
With invasive procedures, such as body lifts, it is vital that you follow the post-care instructions given to you to ensure best results and comfort while you recover. The placement of drains will most likely be necessary to help manage the swelling but once removed, movement will be easier.
Taking time off from work and normal physical activity will be necessary will be important for the healing process. Taking two to three weeks off for work is recommended and limiting activity for approximately 4-6 weeks.
Body Lift Surgery by
Dr. Leland M. Deane Plastic Surgery
Dr. Deane looks forward to working with you to find your surgical body solution. Your customized solution and treatment plan is sure to improve your mobility and comfort. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of the area locations. Dr. Deane meets his patients in Garden City, Babylon as well as Manhattan.