A body lift is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin around the entire body, typically performed following significant weight loss. This procedure is commonly sought by individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery or those who have achieved substantial weight loss through diet and exercise.
Body lifts can vary depending on individual needs. One type is the upper body lift, often addressing deep folds along the bra line, known as bra-line folds. This procedure frequently coincides with a breast lift, extending the incision around the body for comprehensive tightening.
More common, however, is the belt lipectomy or circumferential body lift. This version involves the complete removal of excess tissue around the midsection, targeting areas where many people store fat, known as truncal obesity.
Not all body lifts are performed the same way. Some procedures involve only skin excision, while others include deeper internal support through tightening the fascia—the strong connective tissue layer covering the muscles. This deeper, more comprehensive technique lifts lower tissues significantly, such as the buttocks and thighs, and is frequently performed on massive weight loss patients.
The appropriate body lift procedure varies greatly among patients, depending on their specific needs, desired outcomes, and the degree of invasiveness they are comfortable with. These details and nuances should be thoroughly discussed during a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon experienced in performing various body lift procedures, ensuring the best possible approach tailored to each individual’s goals and recovery expectations.
