Overview
Age, combined with weight fluctuation can cause skin excess particularly in the lower body and abdomen. Multiple body contour deformities of the trunk and thighs have been previously treated in separate stages, such as through abdominoplasty or lipectomy.
Recent advances in the surgical design of the medial thigh lift and the lateral thigh lift as well as improved understanding of the functional anatomy of the superficial fascial system of the lower limbs have significantly improved results and reduced complications. This has enabled new combinations of surgical procedures to correct multiple lower body contour deformities in a single stage.
Correction of the lower trunk, buttock and outer thigh regions in a single stage is termed a “Body Lift”. If treatment of the inner thighs is required, this is done at a second operation, six weeks after the body lift. The primary goal of body lift is to improve the body contour in patients with flaccid or loose skin as their primary problem. This procedure can be combined with some liposuction and fat re-draping to give a smoother appearance to an individual.
The lower body lift can produce a dramatic improvement in skin tightness or skin tone that cannot be matched by the skin retraction that occurs with superficial or deep liposuction alone.
Who is the best Candidate?
Body lift is a suitable procedure for men and women of all ages who have excess skin in the abdomen, buttock and thigh region, with contour irregularity. Liposuction alone in these individuals would address contour irregularity, however produce even more excess skin with an unsatisfactory cosmetic result. Body lift is often used in individuals who have lost large amounts of weight and whose skin has not retracted fully with the weight loss. It will correct a droopy abdomen, buttock and upper thigh region, however it must be noted that body lift is not a procedure for weight reduction, rather to correct excess skin and contour irregularity.
If you are considering body lift, you can expect a considerable change in your abdominal, upper thigh and buttock regions. Surgery is extensive and can be painful, however aesthetic results are excellent and can give you a renewed zest for life.
What to Expect
If performed for medical reasons, a body lift can attract medicare rebates. A percentage of your surgeons, anaesthetist and hospital fees may then be claimed from both Medicare and your private health fund if you have cover. You will need a referral from your general practitioner if you wish to claim.
At your initial consultation, your Surgeon will assess your individual needs based on your expectations and your body and skin structure and suitability for Body lift surgery. Be frank in your discussions with your Doctor and remember to mention any medications that you are taking and whether or not you are a smoker.
Surgery
The body lift procedure is several surgical techniques merged into a single procedure. The aim of the procedure is to reattach the superficial fascial tissues to bony structures, thus lifting the underlying structures. The skin and outer layers of tissue can then be elevated, excess skin excised and a more contour efficient result produced. This procedure may be combined with liposuction, to give a better contour.
Risk
All surgery carries some risk and uncertainty. It is impossible to predict every outcome because everyone is different. The risks and complications will be discussed with you in your consultation with your surgeon.
After Surgery
Following your procedure your pain may vary from moderate to severe and may be managed by pain-killers prescribed by your Surgeon. Your abdomen, buttocks and thighs will be swollen and bruised in the post-operative period. The degree of bruising will vary from mild to severe.
A carer will be needed in the first week to two weeks once you are discharged – for transport, medication management as well as your general care. You will not be able to lift or strain at all for at least four to six weeks.
A supportive girdle may be supplied by our office if required. This may need to be worn for six weeks post-operatively. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least four to six weeks.