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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.