A Lower Body Lift is a complex combination of a tummy tuck, limited lateral thigh lift, buttocks lift and liposuction. The exact components are adjusted according to your individual goals and needs, as determined by your body shape and excess skin, and fat, in the areas to be treated. The outcomes of a lower body lift include flat abdominal contours, improved waist and hip definition, reduction of lower back rolls, lifting of the buttocks and reduced excess and sagging of the outer thighs.
In general, body lift candidates include:
- Individuals who have laxed abdominal walls, excess skin and fat that extends around the abdomen and back, and sagging of the buttocks and inner and outer thighs
- Patients who have undergone massive weight loss, either as a result of bariatric surgery, or diligent diet and exercise
- Healthy individuals without medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
- Individuals committed to leading a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and fitness following surgery
Prior to surgery, Dr. Doolabh plans your incisions to make them the most inconspicuous, usually low enough to hide below the waist band of your pants or underwear. Dr. Doolabh typically begins the procedure with you on your side or stomach, to reduce the excess skin and fat from the mid-back and correct sagging buttocks. Liposuction is then completed on each side of the body.
Next, you are turned onto your back for the tummy tuck. The abdominal wall is tightened, excess skin and fat reduced, and your belly button reset. On average, a body lift procedure can take between 5 to 6 hours.
Following your lower body lift surgery, you’ll be wrapped with a compression garment to wear for 4-6 weeks, to help control swelling and allow your skin to shrink to fit your new contour. Most patients with light job duties may be able to return to work within two weeks, although some activity may be limited.
During your body lift surgery recovery, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions after the procedure is complete. Small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood that may collect.
You will be given specific instructions that may include:
- How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery
- Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing
- Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
- How to care for your drains
- When to follow up with Dr. Doolabh