# Body Lift

> Citation bundle for Body Lift on The Treatment Registry.
> URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/procedures/body-lift
> Bundle URL: https://thetreatmentregistry.com/api/citations/procedures/body-lift

- Category: cosmetic-surgery

## Description

Bariatric surgery is a group of surgical procedures used to manage obesity and related conditions. Long-term weight loss with bariatric surgery may be achieved through alteration of gut hormones, physical reduction of stomach size, reduction of nutrient absorption, or a combination of these.

## Overview

Bariatric surgery is a group of surgical procedures used to manage obesity and related conditions. Long-term weight loss with bariatric surgery may be achieved through alteration of gut hormones, physical reduction of stomach size, reduction of nutrient absorption, or a combination of these. Standard of care procedures include Roux en-Y bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, from which weight loss is largely achieved by altering gut hormone levels responsible for hunger and satiety, leading to a new hormonal weight set point.

*Reference text adapted from Wikipedia under CC BY-SA 4.0. Verify with a qualified clinician before treatment.*

## FAQs

### What is a body lift?

A body lift, also called a belt lipectomy or lower-body lift, is a body-contouring procedure that removes excess skin and fat from around the lower trunk, typically the abdomen, hips, buttocks, and outer thighs, using an incision that runs around the body like a belt. It is most often considered after major weight loss. Because a large amount of skin is removed, it leaves substantial scarring.

### Who is a typical candidate?

It is generally considered by people left with large amounts of loose, sagging skin after significant or bariatric weight loss, once their weight has stabilised. Candidates are usually in good general health and are advised to have finished losing weight before surgery. A surgical assessment confirms suitability.

### How is a body lift performed?

The surgeon makes an incision around the lower trunk, removes the excess skin and fat, and tightens and repositions the remaining tissue; it is a major operation performed under anaesthesia. Liposuction is sometimes combined to refine the contour. Because of its extent, it is sometimes staged with other body-contouring procedures.

### Will it leave scars, and what is the trade-off?

Yes. A body lift leaves long, permanent scars that typically encircle the lower body, and this is the central trade-off: loose skin is exchanged for improved contour at the cost of visible scarring. The length and position of the scars should be discussed carefully with the surgeon before deciding.

### What does recovery generally involve, and how long do results last?

Because it is an extensive operation, recovery involves a significant period of limited activity, with swelling and discomfort that ease gradually, and drains or compression garments are commonly used. Results can be long-lasting when weight remains stable, though ageing and weight change can affect the contour over time. Cost varies by clinic and country; see the destinations listed for this procedure.

### What are the main risks?

Recognised risks include bleeding, infection, poor or delayed wound healing, fluid collection (seroma), blood clots, changes in sensation, wound separation, and problematic scarring, in addition to the general risks of anaesthesia. Because it is a large operation, some patients need further surgery to treat complications or refine the result.