Body Procedures: Body Lift

A patient gets a body lift to improve the tone and shape of the tissues that support fat and skin. During the procedure, excess fat and sagging skin are removed so the skin surface is less dimpled and irregular.

Patients who suffer from poor tissue elasticity because of sagging of the thighs, abdomen and buttocks are good candidates for a body lift. Damage is caused by the sun, pregnancy, weight changes, genetic factors and aging. Ideal body lift candidates suffer from soft tissue looseness in body areas, are healthy and have no medical conditions that impair healing, do not smoke and are those who are committed to leading a healthy lifestyle with exercise and proper nutrition.

It is important to have realistic expectations and know body lifts are not intended strictly to remove excess body fat. Liposuction can eliminate fat deposits if the skin maintains elasticity and can conform to the altered body contours. If the skin elasticity is not good, a body lift in combination with liposuction might be recommended.

What happens during a body lift procedure?

A body lift is a surgical procedure requiring extensive incisions. The pattern and length of the incision depend on the location and amount of extra skin needing removal. Medication is given during the procedure for comfort. Dr. Collis will decide whether intravenous sedation or general anesthesia is best for the patient.

A common technique of a total lower body lift uses incisions comparable to a bikini bottom pattern to shrink and tighten the waist, abdomen, groin, buttock and thigh in a single procedure. The incision removes the extra skin and fat on the body and repositions and tightens tissues. There is a chance liposuction may be needed to achieve an optimal contour.

Sutures in the underlying tissues will help shape and support the new contours. Skin adhesives, tapes, sutures or clips could be used to seal the incisions in the skin.

What happens during body lift recovery?

Patients will see the results nearly immediately after the body lift. The results may continue to develop in the next one to two years.

Bandages or dressings will be applied to the incisions made during the body lift. Thin, small tubes might be placed beneath the surface of the skin to help remove extra blood that might collect.

Dr. Collis will give instructions detailing how to care for the surgical sites and medications to take orally or apply to assist in healing. Patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience unusual heartbeats, shortness of breath or chest pains.