Body Lift

Photo Gallery -- Body Lift
About Dr. Daniel A. Sterling
Candidates for a Body Lift
Complications & Expected Side Effects
Testimonial Body Lift Patient One
Testimonial Body Lift Patient Three

Circumferential Body Lift - Abdomen, Thighs and Buttocks

The abdomen is usually of greatest concern to individuals following massive weight loss. In both men and woman, excess fat is stored both in the abdomen and beneath the skin of the abdominal wall. Consequently, following weight loss, there tends to be both excess abdominal wall skin and loose muscles.

In addition to the aesthetic concerns, the abdomen often presents as a functional problem following weight loss. Large amounts of hanging skin along the lower abdomen can lead to the collection of moisture between the skin folds resulting in a condition called intertriginous dermatitis. The skin is often irritated, red and painful. On occasion the skin may breakdown and bleed or even become infected. Non-surgical means of treating this problem include maintaining the skin folds dry. This can be frustrating and is only a temporary solution to the problem. The surgical removal of the excess skin and fat is called panniculectomy. Panniculectomy in the region of the abdomen is also referred to as an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck. The technique usually involves tightening the muscles of the abdomen and removing excess skin as well.

Addressing the excess skin of the abdomen is often very satisfactory following pregnancy but is usually inadequate following massive weight loss. As mentioned earlier, weight loss following bariatric procedures is generalized; consequently, excess skin is not just confined to the abdomen but involves the thighs and buttocks as well. For these reasons, a procedure called a body lift (belt lipectomy) is usually performed on weight loss patients. The operation involves an abdominoplasty, thigh lift and buttock lift all at one time or as separate procedures. The operation very effectively addresses loose skin and cellulite along the thighs and buttocks as well as the abdomen. A body lift may be combined with liposuction as needed. A pubic lift is often incorporated in the abdominoplasty portion of the body lift. Patients are often exhilarated just to learn that that such an operation exists. While the scar is lengthy, it is confined to the waistline and is hidden by conventional underwear, panties or a bikini. Both men and women find the operation very rewarding.

This 55-year-old female had a laparoscopic gastric bypass 18 months before her circumferential lower body lift. Her pre-op weight before the gastric bypass was 230 lbs. with a BMI of 39.5. Her post-op weight after the gastric bypass was 155 with a BMI of 26.6. The circumferential lower body lift photographs are at 5 weeks. The scars will continue to fade during the next 6 to 12 months and become white and less noticeable.

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The Plastic Surgery Center of Manchester, New Hampshire specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery, including body lifts, breast enlargements, breast lifts, breast reductions, eyelid surgery, ear surgery, facelifts, fat grafting, liposuction, neck and chin surgery, rhinoplasty (nose surgery), surgery after massive weight loss, and tummy tucks. We also offer facial rejuvenation (chemical peels, dermabrasion, Obagi Blue Peels, Glycolic Peels, Microdermabrasion), injectables and facial fillers (BOTOX® Cosmetic, Radiesse®, Juvederm®, Perlane® and Restylane®) and advanced skin care to patients from all over New England (Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts). While no responsible practitioner gives guarantees for the work they do on the human body, we can at least reassure you that you will receive the expertise and dedication of over 30 years in practice. Our patients become an important part of our family and we try to get to know each patient individually and customize their treatment to meet their desires.