Body Lift
A body lift, includes a tummy tuck with thigh and buttock lift, and is typically performed in cases of massive weight loss but may also be performed as a Mommy Makeover. This surgical procedure can be done in stages or in a single operation. Excess folds of skin are removed and the skin is draped to exhibit a smoother, tighter contour of the abdomen, waist, thighs and buttock.
Is Body Lift Right For You?
As stated, body lift is most commonly recommended for people who have achieved significant weight reduction resulting in a hanging and loose abdominal pannus, sagging of the skin on the thighs, buttock and waist. Patients who have gone through pregnancy or older patients who may have excess and loose skin of the abdomen, thighs and/or buttocks may also be a candidates.
Losing weight, through bariatric surgery or traditional methods, is a life-changing experience. Your quality of life can improve dramatically, but first you may need to deal with issues of excess skin. Skin folds can be problematic in multiple ways, not just for your appearance but your health and comfort as well. Areas such as the inner and outer thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and hips can be affected by excess skin after weight loss.
Body lift surgery may be recommended as a solution to these problems, sometimes in conjunction with other body contouring procedures. If you believe you have reached a healthy and stable body weight, schedule a consultation to see if this surgery is right for you. Post bariatric surgery candidates must be of ideal body weight (Body mass index of less then 30), be at least 18 months from their weight loss surgery, have maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months once the ideal body weight is reached, have good eating and exercise habits.
How Body Lift Surgery Works
This surgery is relatively extensive. Operating time will range from 6 to 12 hours under general anesthesia depending on the surgical plan. During a body lift, Dr. Aboolian makes precise incisions in the natural folds of skin, placed in locations that can be hidden when possible. Working around the lower body, excess skin is removed and lifted from the pubic area, to the anterior and posterior thighs to the buttocks. Liposuction may also be necessary to improve contour in certain areas, and if decided upon will be performed at the same time.
After the surgery, you will probably need to rest for the first 24 hours. After the second day, you will have to walk with assistance. Special garments are worn to promote skin contraction, hold the buttocks up, and minimize swelling. For the first week, surgical drains will be in place. Total recovery time with a body lift may require 6 to 8 weeks, but recovery varies for each patient. In many cases, further (less extensive) surgeries are needed to achieve the desired result.
Possible complications with a body lift include seroma, infection, delayed healing, wound separation scarring, thrombosis, DVT and pulmonary embolism. Ask Dr. Aboolian for more information about these and other possible complications. The risk of complications is thought to increase with BMI, so achieving a healthy and stable body weight before your surgery is paramount.
Body Lift Beverly Hills
If you are ready to take the next step toward enjoying the results of your weight loss, contact the office of Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Andre Aboolian MD FACS. Dr. Aboolian is a recognized expert in body contouring and experienced with many of these procedures. Call 310-888-8862 to schedule a consultation or email us with your questions.
