Lower Body Lift
A lower body lift is a contouring procedure that removes excess skin and fat to lift and reshape certain areas of the body, usually after weight loss. The surgery targets the mid and lower body, including the buttocks, stomach, flanks, low back, and thighs. Depending upon how much skin removal is required, an incision all the way around the waist may be performed, which allows the highest amount of lift and skin excision. A lower body lift is a major surgery that can redefine the lower half of a patient’s body. A lower body lift surgery at SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX helps to restore a more normal shape after the changes of weight loss.
WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR A LOWER BODY LIFT?
The best candidates for lower body lift surgery are usually people who have lost a significant amount of weight and are battling new cosmetic challenges. These new challenges consist of wrinkled, loose skin on the upper thighs and buttocks, skin that hangs on the stomach, and sagging skin across the midsection. For those who are considering this surgery, it's important to maintain realistic expectations, which can be talked about with Dr. Couvillion during your initial consultation. First, scars are a result of this surgery because of the size of the incisions. Next, the surgery does have a longer recovery period compared to most elective surgeries, which is why it's helpful to prepare in regard to work and family care. Lastly, it's important that you are at or near your healthy goal weight before undergoing lower body lift surgery. In general, you need to be at least 18 months after weight loss surgery with a stable weight for 6 months or more. This makes sure that your body is ready to heal after surgery.
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HOW DOES A LOWER BODY LIFT WORK?
This surgery is performed with general anesthesia, and most patients do require at least one night's stay in the hospital. The surgery time may be quite lengthy, taking about 4 – 7 hours. The surgical incision is typically made along the area where a belt is worn, which is why it is known as a circumferential, 360 or belt lipectomy. Extra skin is removed, underlying tissues are tightened and liposuction can be performed in some areas. The remaining skin will be pulled taut and secured with sutures. Compression garments will need to be worn over the operated areas to help create a slimming result, as well as to control swelling.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER A LOWER BODY LIFT?
It takes many patients around two or more weeks to get back to easy activities, and in certain patients, as much as six months before a return to more vigorous movements, including exercise. Dr. Couvillion or a member of his staff will provide very detailed instructions and information on caring for the incisions so that scars are minimized as much as possible. While the recovery period may feel long, the results can be extraordinary, providing patients with a tighter, smoother body without the loose, hanging skin that prevented them from living their best life.
LOWER BODY LIFT FAQs
How much does a lower body lift cost?
The price of lower body lift surgery will vary for each patient. In your initial consultation, Dr. Couvillion will be able to discuss a surgical plan that can fit your needs and budget. SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery takes several payment methods, and low-interest medical financing is available to help make your treatment as affordable as possible.
Will I have visible scarring?
Several factors will determine how many scars you have and their visibility after a lower body lift. Dr. Couvillion plans incision patterns so they can usually be concealed by undergarments or in less visible areas, like natural skin folds. Dr. Couvillion will provide you with post-surgery instructions so you know what to expect and how to treat the scars. It takes a number of months, but eventually most scars are smooth can blend into your normal skin.
What can I expect during recovery?
Following your lower body lift procedure, you may have swelling and bruising in and around the treated areas. Appointments for follow-up exams are important so Dr. Couvillion can monitor your healing. It's crucial that you contact SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery if you have any questions.
When should I consider getting a lower body lift?
When you're thinking about getting a surgical lift on your lower half, make an appointment with Dr. Couvillion to get more information about the procedure and talk about the right time for you to schedule surgery. You need to be at or close to a healthy, stable weight because losing or gaining a significant amount of weight after a lower body lift can impact your appearance. Before surgery, Dr. Couvillion will also complete a physical examination and laboratory tests to make sure that you're strong enough to undergo the procedure.
Will I have to stay overnight in the hospital?
Usually, Dr. Couvillion requires his patients to stay a minimum of one night in a medical facility following a lower body lift. This stay is to ensure your safety and comfort so your health can be monitored and your pain controlled. Based on the number of areas that are being treated and how quickly you recover, Dr. Couvillion might suggest that you stay multiple nights. In your initial consultation, Dr. Couvillion will discuss this in detail.
TRANSFORM YOUR FIGURE
Dr. Couvillion invites all weight loss patients to schedule a consultation about our skin removal procedures and your choices for a lower body lift. Our team takes pride in working with our patients to achieve their final goals. If you are concerned about extra skin and hanging folds on the middle to lower portion of your body, you could be a candidate for lower body lift surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ryan Couvillion, and let him discuss this procedure with you.
When it comes to aesthetic plastic surgery, it's important to choose a dedicated surgeon who is committed to your desired surgical goals. To meet with our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Ryan Couvillion, MD and his team, call our office at 713.275.9908.