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Body Lift

A body lift combines a tummy tuck with a buttock lift and outer thigh lift all in one. It is a 360 degree approach to body contouring most often applicable to massive weight loss patients. It can have a dramatic effect on confidence and contour of the body.

The
problem

People who have been obese for much of their life often think bariatric surgery will solve all their problems. Yet even though they may feel exhilarated by their weight loss, they struggle with the vast quantities of hanging skin. It is difficult to wear clothes, feel comfortable in intimacy and perform physical activity. Typically the redundant skin hangs down over the abdomen and lower back.
Woman having body lift

The
procedure

The body lift is performed under general anaesthetic. It is a major operation involving the removal of areas of excess skin and soft tissue, particularly of the abdomen and lower back areas. It may involve lifting the whole abdominal skin, repositioning of the belly button and tightening of the abdominal muscles and also lifting of the buttock skin.

The incision leaves a scar all the way around the lower abdomen and back.

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers
Most patients can return to non-strenuous work after 2 to 3 weeks. Strenuous work or exercise should not be resumed until at least 4 to 6 weeks have passed. It is important that your incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during this time
The procedure takes approximately 4 hours and is performed under general anaesthetic

This is a day case procedure.

The overall recovery takes about 6 weeks. You will be up the day after surgery and encouraged to mobilise. The swelling will settle over a period of 2 weeks. Exercise can begin 6 weeks after surgery.

Excess skin removal surgery as well as any other plastic surgery after major weight loss should be planned after the weight is stable for 1-2 years. As surgery planning may take some time, you may, of course, start planning it earlier.