Body lift is a term for a cosmetic surgery usually performed after a substantial weight loss when excess skin and muscles are in need of reshaping or removal. Body lifts are first and foremost plastic surgery, so all considerations when considering surgery apply, including the risks of anesthesia, blood loss, scarring, infection and death.
Types
Body lifts shape and tone the abdomen, buttocks, upper legs and breasts. A lower body lift, also known as a belt lipectomy, involves the abdomen, thighs, buttocks and back, while an upper body lift will focus primarily on the breasts, chest and middle back. When both an upper and lower body lift are performed, the procedure is called a total body lift. Total body lifts are commonly performed on patients who have lost lots of weight.
Features
Body lifts are usually performed for the treatment of excess skin and other types of sagging fatty tissue. The procedure has becoming common after weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass and gastric banding. Some women who have had difficulty regaining their pre-pregnancy bodies also consider body lifts.
Pros
As with all plastic surgeries, there are emotional benefits to gaining or regaining the physical appearance you want. In the case of weight loss patients, removal of excess skin and sagging fatty tissue is not merely cosmetic, but sometimes a medical necessity: excess skin and tissue can catch and tear, which is not only painful but a source of potentially serious infection.
Cons
Body lifts are a fairly new surgical procedure and should only be performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. There is a relatively long recovery period after this surgery, and you may have to keep your waist flexed for two weeks or more. You may have to sleep on pillows or in a recliner. There will be postoperative pain, but your physician should be able to prescribe medications to assist with pain management. The risks associated with any surgery also apply to body lifts.
Considerations
Good nutrition is vital for a full recovery from any surgery. You may need assistance preparing meals and with other daily duties. Drains are a common feature of this type of surgery. They will have to be emptied and maintained. Many surgery practices will also want you to record how much fluid is draining and how frequently drains have to be emptied. Expect to need help to make it through your recovery period.
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