The Realities of the Lower Body Lift

The lower body lift is not intended to be a substitute for losing weight. It was actually created as a procedure to tighten loose skin following significant weight loss. As obese patients lose 100 or more pounds through diet and exercise or weight loss surgeries, a lower body lift becomes an important procedure. It removes the excess skin and tissue that do not tighten on their own following dramatic weight loss. If there is still unwanted fatty tissue in place, liposuction is used to remove it before the lower body lift.

Ideal Candidates for a Lower Body Lift

When evaluating a patient for a lower body lift, the doctor wants to see people who have loose skin on the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs. Weight loss should have already taken place, and fat stores should be minimal. Gaining weight after a lower body lift stretches the skin and starts to reverse improvements made during the surgery.

A lower body lift leaves scars, so the doctor needs to know that you're okay with having scars traveling around your waist. Finally, the doctor wants to ensure that you have realistic expectations and understand the risks.

Variations of the Lower Body Lift

Your doctor discusses the ideal technique for your lower body lift during consultation. Belt lipectomy is the technique which corrects the contours of the abdomen, buttocks, and flanks. It's ideal for a patient with weight gain in the midsection, but whose legs are still trim. However, the lower body lift can also incorporate thigh lift techniques to address loose skin and fat in the outer thighs. For those who have already had a tummy tuck or whose abdomen is not a concern, techniques can be used to lift the inner thighs, outer thighs, and buttocks.  The procedure can be tailored to each patient to address their individual concerns.

What to Expect During and After the Surgery

After you're given anesthesia, the doctor makes incisions that travel from the back to the hips and then to the front of the thighs. Loose skin and tissue are removed. If a tummy tuck is also needed, that's performed at the same time. Once the tissue and skin are removed, the skin is pulled into place and the incision is sutured using a layered technique.

A lower body lift takes anywhere from six to eight hours. Following the surgery, you stay overnight in a surgical center or hospital. Your doctor may recommend having a registered nurse care for you on the day following the surgery.

You must wear compression garments after surgery. There are also drains and collection tubes used to help the body drain excess fluid as you heal. These drains stay in place for an average of two weeks. Expect to return to the doctor weekly for follow-up appointments.

Pain and swelling are common. Your doctor gives you pain medications through injections or an IV for the first day and then oral pills for the remainder of your healing process. You should be up and walking slowly on the day after the surgery. Strenuous activity must be avoided while you heal. Generally, it takes four or more weeks before you are fully healed.

It's important to do your research before undergoing this cosmetic procedure. While a body lift is a great way to restore your natural curves and remove loose, sagging skin and tissue on your lower body, it's not right for everyone. Find answers to your frequently asked questions about body lifts at the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. When you're ready to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kessler, a specialist in Newport Beach lower body lifts, call (949) 644-6544.