Body Lift

What is a Body Lift?

A lower body lift is a procedure to reshape the waistline contour following massive weight loss or pregnancy. A body lift may include the abdominal area extending around the sides (outer thighs) and the buttocks, with some mild tightening of the inner thighs. Patients undergoing this procedure can expect a slimmer, proportionate waistline to boost confidence. An upper body lift can be fashioned to remove excess skin of the upper abdomen just under the chest or bra line and extend into the armpit and upper back area to remove excess skin.

For many, the body lift procedure is a transformative experience that enhances body contours and relieves physical discomfort caused by excess skin. The procedure can also offer long-lasting results, provided the patient maintains a stable weight and an active, healthy lifestyle post-surgery. 

A highly customizable body lift allows plastic surgeons to tailor the treatment to the patient’s unique body shape and needs. Whether combined with liposuction for further contouring or performed as a standalone procedure, the body lift provides a solution for those seeking to restore their figure after significant weight loss or other life changes.

Who is a Candidate?

Individuals struggling with excess sagging skin and related fat deposits due to significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging are often ideal candidates for a body lift surgery. These conditions can leave behind excess tissue or loose skin that does not respond to diet, exercise, or non-surgical treatments, causing discomfort, irritation, or self-consciousness. 

Candidates for a body lift should be in good overall health and non-smokers. They should also be committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as sustaining a stable weight after surgery is essential to preserving the results. It is highly recommended that patients achieve a stable weight beforehand to ensure the longevity of new body contours. 

While there is no strict age limit for a body lift, the procedure is generally most suitable for adults in their 30s to 60s with significant skin laxity due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. That said, younger individuals who have experienced massive weight loss may also be candidates, provided they meet the health and lifestyle criteria.

However, a body lift is not recommended for certain individuals; those with serious underlying health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, cardiovascular issues, or autoimmune disorders, may face heightened surgical risks. Additionally, individuals who have not yet achieved their goal weight or whose weight is still fluctuating should delay the procedure until their weight has stabilized. Future weight changes, whether from pregnancy or lifestyle shifts, can compromise the results of a body lift. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Sweat is essential to assess individual circumstances and determine if a body lift is appropriate.

Jeffery A.Sweat, M.D.

“Bringing out inner confidence and helping the patient through their own personal journey makes what we do so fun and rewarding.”

Meet Doctor Sweat

What our patients say

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It’s so important to have someone knowledgeable and friendly and you find that here at J. Sweats.

All of the staff is amazing and so personal in the sense they remember your name and treat you like a person not a number. The new office is gorgeous and both offices have always been so clean and well decorated. Just great people and great energy when trusting someone with a body modification it’s so important to have someone knowledgeable and friendly and you find that here at J. Sweats. – Lex L.

This surgeon is an artist!

I have had a multi-procedure surgery that was very difficult to recover from: a breast lift with augmentation, a lower body lift, and a BBL. This surgeon is an artist! I had a lot of extra skin after losing a lot of weight from bariatric surgery. The symmetry of his cuts is amazing. And even though I’m still recovering, I can already see how amazing the results are! I cannot recommend Dr. Sweat enough for these types of procedures. – Melissa S.

Now that the work has been done I can say he has magic hands.

I cannot put into words how much J Sweat and his office staff made my experience amazing! I consulted with different Dr’s and within 5 mins of being at J Sweat’s office, I knew he’d be my Doctor. Now that the work has been done I can say he has magic hands. – Mandi E.

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The Procedure

The exact body lift procedure will differ depending on each patient’s body type and desired outcomes. Generally, an incision is created along the waistline.  An incision extending to the crease of the buttocks is required to adjust the buttocks and outer thighs. Similar to a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat will be removed. The remaining skin will be pulled together and sutured to shape and tone the silhouette.  If needed, a back lift is usually done in a second operation and works to remove excess fat deposits and skin and contour the upper back and armpit area.  The body lift procedures can take 3-7 hours, depending on the extent.

Benefits

of the Body Lift

A body lift offers numerous benefits for individuals struggling with excess skin and stubborn fat deposits after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging:

Improved Body Contour

Whether targeting the upper or lower body, this procedure enhances overall body proportions and helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals.

Enhanced Mobility and Comfort

A body lift improves mobility and comfort in everyday activities, including exercise, making it easier to maintain an active lifestyle.

Long-Lasting Results

The procedure provides a permanent solution when combined with a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.

Improved Hygiene and Skin Health

Excess skin can lead to rashes, irritation, and infections in skin folds; by removing this excess tissue, the surgery improves hygiene and reduces the risk of skin-related health issues.

Customizable Approach

A body lift can be tailored to address each patient’s specific needs, whether focusing on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, or upper body.

The Results

Drains may be placed to help collect excess fluids during recovery and usually stay in place for 1-2 weeks after surgery but can be present longer, depending on fluid output in the remaining tissue. Compression garments must also be worn to minimize swelling and support the treatment sites. Patients may experience some pain following surgery, which can be controlled with pain medication taken by mouth. 

The surgery is done as an outpatient or same-day surgery, and patients should be up and moving around as quickly as possible after surgery to avoid blood clots.  However, individuals must take at least 1-2 weeks off from work and avoid exercise or strenuous activity, which places tension on the incisions, for 6-8 weeks. Patients in the Sacramento area who are interested in the body lift procedure can contact J. Sweat Plastic Surgery today to schedule their initial consultation.

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