Lower Body Lift

A Belt Lipectomy, also known as the lower body lift, offers the most dramatic transformation of the mid and lower body. It is truly a re-sculpting of the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks. Broken into its components, the lower body lift includes a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), a thigh lift, and a buttock lift.

The body lift procedure is performed on post bariatric patients as well as patients who have not had weight loss. The body lift transforms patients that have experienced massive weight loss and have excess skin. However, results are just as dramatic in patients who in addition to a tummy tuck want a tightening of the skin in their thighs and buttocks. The body lift (belt lipectomy) has the advantage that it can be done in one surgical session, or in stages, depending on the patients needs.

Following the body lift procedure patients should plan to be away from work for 3 weeks. Some patients can resume limited work functions after 2 weeks.

Risks and Complications

With every medical procedure there is a possibility of complications, which can cause a longer recovery period. The most common body lift complications include seromas (fluid accumulating under the skin) and small skin separations. Your surgeon will help to resolve these issues.

Some patients experience reduced sensation in the treated area, which can be permanent. Infection, bleeding and blood clots are much less common. A proper assessment of every patient, along with complete lab work, will help in the prevention of postoperative complications. The abdominal scars will appear to worsen during the first weeks or months, and may take up to 18 months before they flatten and lighten in color. The scars never completely disappear, but can be covered by clothing. After healing, scars are handled with special treatments to help the minimization of their appearance.