Lower Body Lift

The lower body lift is a procedure that is used to contour the abdomen, hips, and back. This procedure is also known as a belt lipectomy or circumferential abdominoplasty. It is most commonly performed on patients who have sagging loose skin and localized adiposity following significant weight loss, or multiple pregnancies. Liposuction may be used as an adjunct to improve the results of this surgery.

The Procedure

The procedure varies with each patient, depending on the body habitus, previous scars, and patient goals. In most cases, the surgery entails making incisions around the umbilicus, and circumferentially around the abdomen and back. Excess skin and subcutaneous tissue are removed, the muscles are plicated to tighten the abdomen, and the remaining skin is reshaped to improve the contour. In patients with more significant laxity, a midline vertical or two lateral abdominal incisions may be used to improve the shape of the waistline. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Patients are typically admitted to the hospital overnight for observation.

The Recovery

The overall recovery is dependent upon the extent of the procedure. The patient will have dressings, sutures, and drains in place that will be removed in the office. There are activity and work restrictions for a period of time following the surgery to allow for healing, and to decrease postoperative risks. Pain medication, a muscle relaxant, an antibiotic, and nausea medication as needed will be prescribed postoperatively.