# 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

A body lift removes sagging skin and fat and, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), may cover the abdomen, buttocks and thighs.

## Overview

A body lift removes sagging skin and fat and, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), may cover the abdomen, buttocks and thighs. The circumferential version, a belt lipectomy or lower body lift, removes tissue around the trunk and is commonly done after massive weight loss (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA). ASPS says a body lift is not intended strictly to remove fat, and liposuction may be needed to improve the contour. ASPS describes candidates as healthy non-smokers with significant tissue looseness in one or more areas and realistic goals. ASPS lists intravenous sedation and general anaesthesia as the choices. It says incisions are extensive, with length and pattern depending on the excess skin and surgical judgement. ASPS says dressings or bandages are applied and small tubes may be placed temporarily to drain blood. For the related tummy tuck alone the NHS gives about 6 weeks to recover fully (NHS, OGL v3.0); ASPS describes a body lift as covering several areas. ASPS says the final results take time to develop, and suggests asking the surgeon what to expect. ASPS lists risks including bleeding, infection, skin loss, fat necrosis, persistent leg swelling, deep vein thrombosis, unfavourable scarring and possible revision surgery. Wikipedia notes that smoking, obesity and diabetes may increase the risk of complications after abdominoplasty (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA).

## 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.