Losing weight is always exciting but the loose and sagging skin that can sometimes accompany it is not. A body lift can help you firm the droopy skin that was left behind, giving you a slimmer and tightened figure. Located in Phoenix and serving Chandler, Gilbert, Ahwatukee and other surrounding areas, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Larry C. Leverett performs body lifts on patients with excess skin and fat following extreme weight loss.
What is Body Lift or Belt Lipectomy Surgery?
A body lift or belt lipectomy is a procedure that removes excess skin that is sagging or drooping due to significant weight loss. A body lift tightens the skin to reshape the body and give it more of a shapelier and fit appearance. Most areas of the body can be treated with a body lift.
How Much Does a Body Lift Cost?
The cost of a body lift varies depending on the extent of surgery and the amount of skin that needs to be removed. Dr. Leverett offers financing through CareCredit® and Prosper Healthcare Lending. Our office also accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, cash and cashier’s checks.
Benefits of a Body Lift
A body lift can completely transform your body and self-confidence. People who undergo a body lift often experience benefits including:
- Improved self-esteem
- More contoured figure
- Improved skin elasticity
- More youthful appearance
Good Candidates for Body Lift
If you have an excess of loose and sagging skin, a body lift may be right for you. It can help give you the fit, toned appearance you desire.
What Happens During Body Lift Surgery?
A body lift is performed on an outpatient basis with anesthesia. Incisions are made in one or more areas, depending on the amount and location of the excess skin that needs to be removed. Excess skin and fat are then removed, and inner tissue is repositioned with dissolvable sutures to improve contours. The outer skin is sewn or taped closed with a small, thin tube temporarily placed under the skin to drain excess blood and fluid.
After the Body Lift
Following a body lift, patients may experience some discomfort in the area where the skin was removed. Most patients will need to wear compression garments to aid in healing. Using an ice pack and taking over-the-counter medicine can help alleviate any discomfort and swelling. Bandages should frequently be changed to prevent infection. You should avoid strenuous activities for at least a month depending on the area treated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is body contouring surgery necessary after bariatric surgery?
Body contouring surgery after bariatric surgery is not always necessary, but it is often recommended for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and are left with excess skin and tissue. Bariatric surgery, such as gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, can result in substantial weight loss, which can lead to loose and sagging skin in various areas of the body. While weight loss is a significant achievement for overall health, excess skin can cause physical discomfort, interfere with mobility, and impact self-esteem. Body contouring surgery can help address these concerns by removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissues, and reshaping the body contours to create a more proportionate and aesthetic appearance.
Can a body lift procedure be combined with other surgeries?
Yes, a body lift procedure can be combined with other surgeries to address specific concerns and achieve more comprehensive results. This is especially common for patients seeking post bariatric surgery, as a body lift is often just one component of a multi-faceted body contouring procedure. Common combinations include a mommy makeover, arm lift, thigh lift, tummy tuck or breast surgery. The combination of procedures can be discussed with Dr. Leverett during the consultation to determine the most appropriate surgical plan for your unique needs.
Are the results of a body lift permanent?
The results of a body lift procedure can be long-lasting; however, they are subject to the natural aging process and lifestyle factors. Maintaining a stable weight, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding significant weight fluctuations can help preserve your results over time. While the body will continue to age naturally, the improvements achieved through a body lift can provide lasting satisfaction and improved body contours.
Is it possible to have children after a body lift procedure?
Yes, it is possible to have children after a body lift procedure. However, it is generally recommended to complete your family before undergoing the procedure. Pregnancy can impact the results of the surgery by stretching the abdominal area and potentially affecting other treated areas.
Will insurance cover the cost of a body lift procedure?
In most cases, body lift procedures for post-bariatric body contouring are considered elective and cosmetic in nature. Therefore, they are typically not covered by insurance. However, individual insurance coverage policies may vary, and it is recommended to consult with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage details.
Is your figure hiding under flabby, excess skin? A body lift can help you show off your new figure after extreme weight loss. If you live in or around the Greater Phoenix area, such as Ahwatukee, Chandler and Gilbert, contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Larry C. Leverett to schedule your body lift or belt lipectomy consultation.