Aging skin, pregnancy, significant weight fluctuation, sun damage, and other factors may contribute to sagging of the abdomen, buttocks, groin, and thighs. At Galanis Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills,we understand that when sagging skin extends all the way around the body, patients may experience skin irritation and difficulty fitting into their favorite clothes.
The body lift is designed to address this issue by removing excess skin. While an abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck,” focuses on the stomach, the body lift simultaneously addresses excess skin on both the stomach and the back.
A Healthy, Non-smoking (>1 month) Patient with a stable weight for 3-6 months.
A Patient displeased with sagging skin around the abdomen, hips.flanks, and back (most commonly massive weight loss patients).
Technique
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and can be thought of as an extension of a tummy tuck in that it is extended to the back. The technique includes:
Removal of excess skin and fat.
Tightening of the abdominal muscles if indicated.
Incision around the navel to assist in tightening the skin of the upper stomach area.
Liposuction, which may also be done simultaneously to address areas of fat deposits.
Drain placement.
Placement of a pain pump or injection of a long-acting pain reliever for postoperative pain control.
Body Lift Recovery
Outpatient surgery.
Results are immediate.
Pain will vary. Oral pain medicine may be needed for 7 to 10 days.
A compression garment/abdominal binder will be placed at the time of surgery and should be worn for at least 4 weeks.
Drains are typically removed within 1 to 2 weeks.
All sutures are dissolvable.
There are no restrictions on daily activity; patients are encouraged to walk. Patients may shower 2 days after surgery. No lifting more than 10 pounds for 2 weeks and patient may drive when narcotic pain medication is necessary. No strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 6 weeks.
Expect to take 1 to 2 weeks off of work depending on job demands.
You will be seen in office following surgery at 1 week, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and after as needed.
Do you have any questions or would you like a personal consultation?
If you would like to learn more about body lift surgery, please fill out our contact form and we will be happy to assist you! Alternatively, you can call to schedule a consultation to see Dr. Galanis in Beverly Hills at 310-858-8930.
