Following substantial weight loss, individuals may observe loose and sagging skin in specific areas of the body. This may contribute to feelings of self-consciousness and dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. The presence of excess skin can also give rise to issues like chafing, infections, intertriginous rashes, and impediments to movement that can affect activities of daily living. In such cases, consideration of a body lift surgery may be worthwhile.
A body lift is a comprehensive series of cosmetic interventions aimed at eliminating excess skin and fat from various areas of the body while simultaneously tightening the remaining skin. This transformative procedure targets multiple areas, including the abdomen, back, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms, breasts, and face, to achieve a more toned and contoured appearance. Thus, a full body lift will involve a series of procedures including: abdominoplasty, belt lipectomy, gluteoplasty, thigh lift, arm lift, breast lift (with or without implants), and face and neck lift. However, not all patients will require or desire treatment in all these areas. The specific components of a body lift will vary among patients based on their individual aesthetic concerns and treatment goals. By customizing the procedure to address each patient’s unique needs, a body lift can deliver tailored results that enhance the overall body contour and improve confidence and self-image.
Generally, no. While some procedures can be combined, patients seeking a body lift typically undergo a series of procedures that are staged weeks to months apart. This is important for healing and helping avoid complications. There are three primary reasons why this is the case.
First, it is ideal to keep surgical time under about 6 hours based on published data in the literature. This is because extended surgical durations increase the overall time that patients are under anesthesia, which heightens the risk of complications associated with anesthesia, such as respiratory issues, venous thromboembolism, and cardiovascular stress. Additionally, extended periods of immobility during lengthy surgeries can contribute to a higher incidence of postoperative complications, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
Second, postoperative mobility is paramount to your recovery process. Engaging in light activities such as fetching water or attending to bathroom needs, is commonly encouraged. Operating on multiple areas simultaneously may hinder your ability to mobilize effectively, thereby elevating the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
Third, the more surgery that is performed in one session, the more tissue manipulation and disruption – i.e., tissue trauma. Too much tissue trauma can impair the body’s natural healing processes and elevate the risk of complications such as infection, tissue necrosis, and delayed wound healing.
Body lift surgery is typically divided into two main components: an upper body lift and a lower body lift. The approach to these procedures may vary depending on individual patient needs and preferences. In general, surgeries are often initiated from the lower body and progress upwards. However, there are instances where addressing the abdomen (or another area) first may be prioritized, particularly if it is the primary concern for the patient.
Yes. Body lift procedures should be conceptualized as trading a scar for a shape. Patient’s will look great in clothes and feel better about themselves. Because scars are integral to body lift procedures, to help ensure the best scar outcome, Dr. Desrosiers employs a meticulous approach. First, understanding each patient’s unique response to sutures is important. During the consultation, Dr. Desrosiers and his staff will seek to understand your medical history, including any prior procedures and experiences with stitch abscesses or rejection, to tailor the surgical approach accordingly. Second, Dr. Desrosiers may utilize slowly dissolving or permanent sutures beneath the skin to prevent scar widening until wound remodeling has transformed weak Type 3 collagen into more robust Type 1 collagen. Third, Dr. Desrosiers requires the use of compression garments, not only to alleviate swelling but also to provide support to the tissues, minimizing tension on the scar line. Lastly, our practice offers cutting-edge treatments such as activated collagen gel, advanced silicone scar gel, and laser scar therapy, which have shown remarkable efficacy in promoting seamless scar formation for many patients.
Dr. Desrosiers understands that each patient is unique and requires individualized care. With his expertise and dedication to achieving exceptional results, Dr. Desrosiers is committed to guiding you through your body lift journey with confidence and support.
To learn more thigh lift procedures or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Desrosiers, please contact us at 305-403-2922 or concierge@ArthurMD.com. Let Dr. Desrosiers help you achieve the body of your dreams with advanced body contouring techniques and personalized care.
