CIRCUMFERENTIAL BODYLIFT
Circumferential Body Lift
The Body Lift procedure is designed to remove skin and lift the breasts, abdomen, buttocks and thighs. It would usually be carried out as part of the Abdominoplasty and is common for patients who have undergone excessive weight loss as the result of Bariatric Surgery to require a Body Lift.
The goal of the Body Lift is to give patients who have undergone dramatic weight loss the body they have always wanted to achieve. Once weight Loss is complete patients can be left with drooping and sagging skin which can make choosing clothes difficult. It can be uncomfortable, can lead to skin irritation and can affect self-confidence. The removal of skin will result in a more shapely and contoured body which should heighten self-esteem and body image.
Body Lift surgery is carried out under a general anaesthesia and takes around 3-4 hrs in theatre although this depends on the extent of the lift, patients are required to stay overnight in hospital.
An incision is made from hip to hip and extends around the back towards the buttocks. The excess skin and tissue is then removed and the underlying muscles are tightened and the skin is sutured, the umbilicus will also be repositioned during the procedure via a separate incision.
Surgical drains will be in place to drain away any excess fluid and to then surgical dressings and a compression garment are applied to reduce swelling and maintain shape, the garment will need to be worn for several weeks post-surgery.
As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of the most common risks are numbness, bruising and swelling. There are also some more uncommon complications which include infection, hematoma, seroma, skin necrosis and thickened scars. General anaesthesia carries its own risks, for example, cardiac/respiratory issues and DVT.
Once the healing process is complete it is important to maintain a healthy weight through a stable diet and exercise plan to maintain the result.
Dr. med. Strouthou will discuss how long it will be before you can return to your normal level of activity and work.
Immediately after your lower body lift, you can expect to be bandaged and wearing compression garments, and you may have some surgical drains. You will likely spend at least two days in the hospital or another setting in which you are receiving skilled nursing care. During this time you will learn how to take care of your drains and feel comfortable walking and moving. Once you are comfortable with oral pain medications, you will be discharged.
Bruises and general discomfort should subside within a few weeks. However, swelling may not fully diminish for a few months. Although you will still be healing, you can usually return to work in two to three weeks and most normal activities within four to six weeks. During the recovery period, you may have to make some modifications to your workplace environment or routine to ensure your comfort.
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