A body lift, typically a lower body lift, is done by making a circumferential incision around the body to remove excess skin and fat (often referred to as an "apron") and tighten underlying tissues.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Procedure Overview:
The goal of a body lift is to improve the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports skin and fat. It addresses sagging skin and fat in one or more areas, most commonly:
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
- Hips
- Thighs
- Waist
Surgical Steps:
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Anesthesia: General anesthesia is typically administered so you are asleep during the procedure.
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Incision: The surgeon makes a large, circumferential incision around the lower torso. The exact placement and length of the incision will depend on the amount of correction needed and the patient's anatomy. The incision is typically placed so that the resulting scar can be hidden by clothing, including swimwear.
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Tissue Removal & Tightening: The surgeon then removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks. Underlying muscles and tissues are tightened to create a smoother, firmer contour.
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Buttock Lift (Optional): A body lift often includes a buttock lift, achieved by lifting and reshaping the buttocks during the procedure. This may involve repositioning existing tissue or using implants.
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Closure: The skin is then redraped, and the incisions are closed with sutures. Drains may be placed to remove excess fluid.
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Dressing and Support: Dressings and bandages are applied, and you will likely be placed in a compression garment to help minimize swelling and support the tissues during healing.
Types of Body Lifts:
While "body lift" often refers to a lower body lift, other variations exist:
- Lower Body Lift: As described above, addresses the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and outer thighs.
- Upper Body Lift: Focuses on the back, breasts, and upper arms. This is a separate procedure and not typically performed simultaneously with a lower body lift.
- Medial Thigh Lift: Specifically targets the inner thigh to remove excess skin and fat. This can sometimes be performed in conjunction with a lower body lift, but is also done as a standalone procedure.
Important Considerations:
- Body lifts are major surgical procedures with significant recovery periods.
- Potential risks include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, and changes in skin sensation.
- Results are long-lasting, but can be affected by weight fluctuations, aging, and pregnancy.
- Consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine if a body lift is the right choice for you.
