Total Body Lift
What is a body lift?
A body lift improves the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports skin and fat. Excess sagging skin and fat are removed and the procedure(s) can improve a dimpled, irregular skin surface.
A body lift may include these areas
- Abdominal area – locally or extending around the sides and into the lower back area
- Buttocks
- Thigh – the inner, outer or posterior thigh, or the thigh’s circumference
Aging, sun damage, pregnancy, significant fluctuations in weight and genetic factors may contribute to poor tissue elasticity that can result in sagging of the abdomen, buttocks and thighs.
What a body lift can’t do
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, body lift techniques along with liposuction may be recommended.
ANESTHESIA
General. You will sleep during the entire procedure.
LOCATION OF OPERATION
Hospital, outpatient surgery center, or office-based suite.
LENGTH OF PROCEDURE
Buttock lift, 4 hours; total bodylift 6-8 hours.
LENGTH OF STAY
Buttock lifts may require an overnight stay. Total body lifts will require 3-5 days in the hospital.
RECUPERATION AND HEALING
Moderate to severe. Anticipate 5-14 days of prescription pain medications.
Both are expected, but will improve within 4-6 weeks. Swelling may be reduced by keeping your legs elevated. As thigh swelling improves, you may notice swelling in your knees and ankles. Bruising improves in 10-14 days.
If drains are placed, they will be removed in 3-7 days depending on drain output.
Removed in 2-4 days
All stitches/sutures are dissolvable.
You may return to work in approximately 1-4 weeks if you have stopped taking pain medication. If you are able to elevate your feet during work hours, you may return sooner. If your job requires lifting, you should wait 6 weeks to return.
May be gradually resumed in 6 weeks.
If your scar(s) is exposed while outdoors, you should protect it with sunscreen SPF 15 or higher for at least one year to prevent permanent discoloration.
8-10 weeks.
Final results are seen in approximately 6 months to 1 year after scar maturation.
Special Care
ABSOLUTELY NO SMOKING!!!!!!! Smoking is prohibited 4 weeks prior to surgery and at least 4 weeks after surgery for proper healing and best results.
