A nutritious and well-balanced diet with regular exercise contributes to a healthy life style. Our physical appearance, however, is also dependent on genetics, environmental factors, the aging process, and life experiences, such as weight fluctuations and pregnancies. Even after weight loss, we can be left with loose skin and poor contours around the hips, buttock and thighs. Skin often does not tighten adequately when fat melts away after weight loss. In such cases, a lower body lift procedure may be the solution to tighten and recontour sagging skin. The lower body lift is an extensive surgical procedure that can enhance physical comfort and self-confidence.
What is a Lower Body Lift?
A procedure (or combination of procedures) that removes fat, tightens loose muscles and lifts sagging skin of the abdomen, buttocks, groin and thighs. The shape and tone of the supportive tissues of the skin are lifted and improved. Irregular contours and skin dimpling (cellulite) can be improved. Body lifts are not specifically designed to remove excess fat but some liposuction can be performed at the same time. Rather, body lifts are specifically removing excess skin and lifting and repositioning the remaining skin and soft tissues.
Who is a Good Candidate?
- Someone with significant loose and sagging skin of the abdomen, hips, buttocks,
- and thighs
- Achieved desired and stable weight
- Healthy individual
- Non-smoker
- Realistic goals and expectations
“Dr. Parva,
I can’t even begin to tell you what you’ve done for me. “Thank you” would never do. I know it’s only been 3 weeks, but the change is remarkable.”
The Lower Body Lift Procedure:
Presently there is no procedure that can restore the appearance and contours of the lower body other than lower body lift. Incisions are extensive and are dependent on the location and extent of loose skin. Generally a full lower body lift will require incisions around the circumference of the trunk that cross the lower abdomen, hips and back to the crease above the buttock in the center of the back. These incisions are placed low on the body so the resultant scars are hidden under clothing. Scars may be more limited if an isolated outer thigh or buttock lift is performed. Drains are often used to prevent fluid build-up under the skin. The specific procedure is tailored to your needs based on the location and extent of loose skin.
Recovery and Healing:
- Initial healing takes 10 to 14 days.
- Absorbable sutures are usually under the skin and do not require removal.
- Drains are removed about one week after surgery.
- Avoid bending, strenuous activity or lifting for one week as positioning is important.
- Light activities are permitted within 2 weeks.
- Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activities until cleared.
- Return to work and normal activities in a few weeks.
- Sun protection is important and scar reduction techniques, such as garments and silicone gel, are helpful in the weeks and months to follow.
Results:
Noticeable results are seen immediately but it will take several months for swelling to settle and for the long term results to be evident.
Firmness and numbness may take months to improve and scars can take more than 1 year to fade. Scars however are permanent but hidden under clothing.
Your new contours are long lasting when you maintain body weight and fitness.
As your body ages, you will naturally lose some firmness.
Schedule Your Lower Body Lift Consultation
Please contact Parva Plastic Surgery for your complimentary lower body lift consultation with Dr. Parva, board certified plastic surgeon today.