Body Lift
Body Lift (abdominoplasty and buttocks) is a surgical procedure that reshapes and “lifts” the lower body, including the abdomen, hips, thighs and buttocks. Excess skin is removed and the underlying tissues are lifted. This is essentially the classic abdominoplasty procedure, which is combined with the lifting of the buttocks and thighs on their outer surface. This surgical procedure is particularly useful after severe weight loss, dieting, or gastric bypass surgery. The Body Lift is intended for men or women with a large excess of skin on the abdomen and buttocks.
Body Lift and types of anesthesia
The Body Lift is performed under general anesthesia and the hospitalization required is usually 1 – 2 days.
Body Lift – Surgical technique
The surgeon starts the surgery with the patient in a supine position. Initially, abdominoplasty is performed. That is, the part of the excess skin of the abdomen is removed, with the help of an incision low in the underwear. The abdominal muscles are then plastically filled in.
The surgical procedure is continued in a prone position in order to make an incision around the periphery of the trunk and remove the excess skin on the buttocks and the outer surface of the thighs. The goal is to lift the thighs and also the buttocks in one surgical procedure. The duration of the surgery is usually 5-7 hours, depending on the case.
Body Lift – Postoperative instructions
- After the surgery, the patient must wear a special elastic form for a period of about 6 weeks.
The doctor places small tubes (drains) in the incisions for 1-3 days to prevent fluid from accumulating under the incision. - After surgery, painkillers and antibiotics are given.
- Return to work and simple daily activities are allowed after 3 weeks.
- Anti-coagulation is also recommended.
- Physical exercise is allowed after the 6th postoperative week.
- The final result of the scar becomes apparent one year after surgery.
One year after surgery, the result is assessed, and possible minor corrections are carried out under local anesthesia.
Body Lift – Result
The result of the Body Lift is immediately apparent after surgery. The abdomen is flat and at the same time, the thighs and buttocks are lifted. The swelling begins to subside after the 6th week and the final result is fully noticeable one year after the surgery. Proper diet and exercise play have a huge impact on the final appearance.
Preparation before surgery
- Photographs of the area are taken.
- Classical preoperative check-up includes blood tests, chest X-ray, and cardiac evaluation.
- 12 hours before surgery do not eat anything.
- 6 hours before surgery do not drink anything.
- On the morning of the operation do not take any medication without the anesthesiologist's approval.
- Alcohol should be stopped 1 week before surgery.
- In the case of general anesthesia, it is necessary to meet with the anesthesiologist before the surgery.
- Report previous anesthetic experiences, either positive or negative and inform him/her of any health problems or medication you are taking.
- Do not take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements 10 days before the surgery, as they increase the possibility of bleeding during and after surgery.
- 3 days before the surgery and every day after washing your face or body with medicated soap, depending on the planned surgery.
General Complications after surgery
Complications in plastic surgery operations are not common but it is necessary to be aware of them at the first appointment.
- Hematoma: A hematoma is the accumulation of blood in the wound.
- Inflammation: To prevent inflammation, antibiotics are administered during surgery.
- Poor wound healing: If the incision in the operated site is more prominent than expected, it can be corrected 6 months to a year after surgery with local anesthesia. In some cases, the appearance of keloids is possible where specific treatment is needed.
- Skin necrosis: It is more likely in heavy smokers.
- Pulmonary embolism and thrombosis.
This text may give rise to new questions. We are at your disposal for any other information.