Surgeon as Tailor: Body Lift After Massive Weight Loss.
Congratulations are in order for anyone disciplined enough to lose massive amounts of weight. Unfortunately, the end goal can be a let-down for some. Although the weight is gone, the redundant skin remains; sagging, folding and rippling on virtually every area of the body. In essence, the body has shrunk, but the suit of skin has not. A body lift is a remedy.
A body lift improves the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports fat and skin.
Excess sagging fat and skin are removed and the procedure(s) can improve a dimpled, irregular skin surface, which is commonly known as cellulite, but should not be the main expectation of surgery.
Body lift procedures require extensive incisions, the length and pattern depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed. Incisions are usually placed where they can be concealed by clothing and swimsuits.
A body lift may include these areas:
Abdomen
A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgically removes an apron of excess skin and fat and repositions and tightens tissue. The incision may run side to side or continue circumferentially to include the back in a procedure called belt lipectomy. The belt lipectomy lifts and removes the skin of the low back and buttocks.
Breasts
Loss of fat and fullness leaves the breasts sagging. A breast lift or mastopexy is necessary to lift the breasts back into position.
Mons pubis
Excess fat may remain on the mons pubis. Mons pubis reduction via Liposuction can be performed to reduce bulk.
Thigh Lift
Inner and outer thighs can be somewhat smoothed in appearance with a thigh lift to remove extra skin. The incision is made near the groin and lifting is done on the inner thigh only. Liposuction of inner and outer thighs and knees reduces circumference.
Arm Lift
Also called a Brachioplasty removes the hanging skin of the upper arm after weight loss. The incision is made vertically from underarm to above the elbow.
Although these procedures are detailed for those with massive weight loss, any of the above procedures may be performed on individuals simply looking to tighten up aging or hereditary body features.
If you have lost a great deal of weight and are seeking improvement of any of these areas, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Gilbert Lee of Changes Plastic Surgery & Spa in San Diego. He will tailor your procedures to suit your post-weight loss appearance.