Lower Body Lift

A lower body lift, also known as belt lipectomy, is a 6-8 hour body contouring procedure that dramatically redefines the abdomen, outside thighs, and buttocks.  Lower body lifts include a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, a lateral (outside) thigh lift, and a buttock lift.  During the procedure, excess folds of skin and fat are removed from the midsection. 

Many patients opt for a lower body lift after bariatric surgery - gastric bypass or lap band surgery -  to remove the excess skin that becomes a problem after significant weight loss.  The goal of the lower body lift is to enhance the contour of the abdomen, buttocks, and lateral thighs by removing and lifting excess skin and tightening the muscles.

How is a lower body lift performed?

A lower body lift is performed in one operation.  The procedure requires an overnight stay, and it is usually performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery center.  The lower body lift requires carefully placed incisions that help contour the patient’s abdomen, buttocks, and lateral thighs. 

The incision is usually made 360 degres around the waist, near the belt-line, and can usually be hidden by underwear.

An ideal candidate for a lower body lift:

• Has lost a great deal of weight and wants additional body contouring
• Has excess skin due to pregnancy or aging
• Is prepared for surgery and has realistic expectations

What is recovery like for a lower body lift?

Following a lower body lift, many patients will stay overnight in a hospital or outpatient surgery center.  Areas that have been targeted are often wrapped in elastic bandages or compression garments to decrease swelling and allow the skin to conform to the changes. 

Most patients are able to resume most normal activities a week or so after surgery, and are encouraged to walk around as soon as possible to increase circulation and speed up the healing process.  After about 2-3 weeks, most patients can return to work, but should avoid strenuous exercise, pushing, lifting, and bending. 

Returning to Normal

Patients will return to Dr. Maddali  for multiple follow up visits to ensure that the healing process is normal. In addition, there will be drainage tubes placed during the operation which are typically removed 1-2 weeks after the procedure.  Once the drains are removed, movement becomes easier for the patient.  Finally, after about 6 weeks, most patients can return to all regular activities and fully enjoy the results of their lower body lift. 

To learn more about body lift surgery in San Francisco, contact the plastic surgery office of Sirish Maddali MD.