Individuals can seek plastic surgery procedures to enhance their appearance, treat birth defects, or repair injuries. A professional surgeon will perform body-related procedures such as liposuction, abdominoplasty, or a body lift. Here are a few questions about body lifts in plastic surgery:
What Is a Body Lift?
A body lift, also known as torsoplasty or a belt lipectomy, is a plastic surgery procedure that helps remove sagging or excess skin from around a person’s torso. This procedure is usually sought after by individuals who have recently lost a large amount of weight, leaving them with loose skin folds. Elderly individuals or postpartum women who have sagging skin may also seek this cosmetic procedure.
What Is the Body Lift Process?
A body lift procedure involves various steps to provide a safe and successful outcome. It typically begins with a consultation and ends with monitoring through follow-up appointments. Here is more information about the steps involved:
The Consultation
A body lift will start with a thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During your consultation, you will discuss your goals and preferences, as well as any potential health issues or injuries that the doctor needs to be aware of. Your doctor will ask if you are on any current medications and will determine if those medications will affect your ability to undergo the surgery. The plastic surgeon will also share detailed information about the costs, risks, and recovery timeline.
The Pre-surgery Steps
Once you have a surgery date set, you may have to follow a few pre-surgery steps. These may include avoiding any food or drink the night before the surgery and the morning of to avoid a reaction to the anesthetic. The surgeon may also ask you to arrive a few hours early to your procedure to make sure all the necessary paperwork is filled out and you are able to change into a surgical gown and get comfortable.
The Procedure
During the procedure, you may be under anesthesia to help increase comfort. The surgeon will separate the skin from the tissue, remove excess fat, and tighten the muscles. They will then carefully close the incision site with sutures or staples to help reduce scarring and avoid infection.
The Post-surgery Routine
After the procedure, you will need to rest and avoid excessive movement. The recovery timeline will vary depending on the procedure. Swelling will reduce within a few weeks, but yplastic surgeryou should avoid heavy lifting for around six weeks or more. Post-surgery compression garments will help to reduce swelling and bruising, and the surgeon may suggest wearing a garment for several weeks depending on if they think it will be beneficial. Adhere to your surgeon’s instructions and wait until you are cleared before resuming any normal activities. Regularly attend your follow-up appointments so that your doctor can monitor your recovery closely.
Are There Any Risks Involved in Getting a Body Lift?
When performed by a certified surgeon at a trusted Plastic Surgery Institute, the risks associated with body lifts are often low. Also, verify that your chosen surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This certification shows your surgeon has the necessary schooling and skills to perform your procedure safely. There may be some bruising and swelling shortly after the procedure, but with proper care, it will abate fairly quickly. Keep the area around your sutures clean to avoid infection. You should also speak with your surgeon if you notice any unusual reactions to your medication or the surgery.
Can a Body Lift Be Combined With Other Procedures?
You can combine the torsoplasty with other areas that you want to tone, such as the buttocks, hips, or thighs. Depending on your health history and your surgeon’s skill level, they may also be able to perform liposuction, breast augmentation, or an arm lift. Adding other procedures to your body lift may increase the required recovery time, so make sure that you are able to take that time off work or your other responsibilities. Combining cosmetic procedures allows you to fully customize your surgical experience.
Explore Helpful Plastic Surgery Procedures Today
A body lift provides various benefits, including a more toned midsection and reduced skin folds. A cosmetic surgeon will evaluate your goals and health history to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a torsoplasty. Learn more about this procedure by contacting a certified plastic surgeon in your area today.
