Body Lift

Description:
Also known as a belt lipectomy, a body lift is a multi-surgical procedure designed to improve the over all appearance of the abdomen, legs, buttocks, chest and arms. Combining elements of the Tummy Tuck and other body sculpting procedures, body lift surgeries are most popular with individuals suffering from excess fat and loose or sagging skin brought on by aging or major weight loss. A belt lipectomy can help sculpt your body back into a firmer, more youthful looking form.

The Procedure:
Again, a body lift is intended as a procedure for body contouring or sculpting. It is not a weight loss surgery. The operation consists of carefully removing excess skin from the treatment areas. A cosmetic surgeon may also incorporate Liposuction to remove fat deposits. The muscles and skin in the area are then tightened to more appropriate levels, to create a sleek, natural look.

Time Required:
Body lift surgeries can take anywhere from 3-7 hours, and may need to be divided into separate sessions.

In/Out Patient:
Usually outpatient

Side Effects / Risks:
A body lift is a major, extensive form of cosmetic surgery, so bruising and swelling are to be expected. There are also the normal rare surgical risks of infection and reactions to anesthesia.

Duration of Results:
Body lift results are permanent, so long as the patient maintains a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Recovery Time:
Body lift recovery time will require a week or more in bed for most patients. Patients are usually able to return to work within 4-6 weeks.

Insurance:
Insurance usually won't cover a body lift, unless its performed to remove excess skin from a gastric bypass or other medical, rather than cosmetic, condition.

Level of Discomfort:
During a thighplasty, a general anesthetic will be administered. Due to the nature of the surgery, some level of mild discomfort should be expected throughout the recovery process, but can be treated with basic pain relievers.

Can Be Combined With:
Liposuction

Also Known As:
Belt lipectomy, torsoplasty, central body lift, circumferential torsoplasty, circumferential panniculectomy, circumferential lipectomy, and lower body lift.