Lower Body Lift, Belt Lipectomy in Scottsdale and Phoenix, AZ
Belt lipectomy, or lower body lift, is a procedure that combines a tummy tuck with circumferential excision of skin and fat. The operation is most commonly performed to remove excess skin and fat following massive weight loss. It is also performed to fight the effects of aging and childbearing, including excess skin, cellulite, and sagging fatty tissue. When some patients undergo a traditional tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure, the trunk region is not addressed, leaving excess skin and fat that requires additional procedures to remove. Following large volume weight loss, either through bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, the lower body lift is ideal to remove the redundant skin that frequently hangs over the lower torso.
Why Get a Lower Body Lift?
A lower body lift or belt lipectomy, offers the most dramatic transformation of the mid and lower body. It offers people a complete reshaping of the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks. A lower body lift is the result of several different procedures including a tummy tuck, a thigh lift, and a buttock lift. It will improve abdominal contour, abdominal wall laxity, sagging of the area above the pubis, back rolls, waist contour, and buttocks contour.
A lower body lift is a large, involved procedure that has tremendous upside for qualified candidates. The procedure benefits bariatric patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and wish to have a more contoured body and a better functional outcome. Motivated patients who have lost anywhere from 30 to 150 pounds are ideal candidates for a lower body lift. The procedure will improve not only their appearance, but also their overall health.
What happens during a Lower Body Lift?
When undergoing a lower body lift you will first be sedated through intravenous sedation or by general anesthesia. The entire operation can take up to five hours, depending on the extent of the procedure, discussed with you by Dr. DeVito. Excess skin is removed from around the abdominal area as well as the hips and buttocks. Incisions are made along the lower abdomen, close to the pubic region, and along the lower back, to allow for removal of excess fat. When healed, these incisions are usually not very visible, and are well hidden by the waistband of underwear and swim suits.
Risk and Recovery from a Lower Body Lift:
It generally takes about two to three weeks for recovery. Pain and discomfort will last a few weeks following surgery. Pain medication and antibiotics are prescribed. As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks. Infection and bleeding are two of the more commonly reported complications. By following the surgeon’s post operative instructions for recovery, you give yourself the best opportunity to avoid any potential complications. A successful lower body lift, followed by a healthy lifestyle, will deliver results that last for a lifetime.
