Body Lift Surgery: What to Expect
Preparing for Post-Weight Loss Surgery
The first step in preparing for post-weight loss surgery is a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon. During this meeting, you will have the opportunity to be candid about your concerns and goals, and the doctor will conduct an examination and review of your medical history. Together you will decide on which body contouring procedures are right for you.
Other steps you can take to prepare for post-weight loss surgery include:
- Be at or near your target weight
- Have healthy eating habits in place
- Build a support system you can rely on
Details of Post-Weight Loss Surgery Procedures
Tummy Tuck
The tummy tuck incision is made from hip to hip along the bikini line. Sometimes, a second incision is created around the navel. The surgeon uses sutures to tighten the abdominal muscles, remove excess tissue, and reshape abdominal contours.
Extended Tummy Tuck
The incision is made around the hips and extends to the lower back for an extended tummy tuck. Loose abdominal muscles are tightened with sutures, excess skin is removed, and a natural appearance is restored to the tummy, hips, and back.
Liposuction
During liposuction, small incisions are made, and cannulas are inserted to gently suck away excess fat and improve body contours.
Neck Lift
The neck lift incision is made above the lower hairline. The neck muscles are tightened, and loose skin is removed.
Thigh Lift
For a thigh lift, the incision is made along the inner or outer thigh so that excess skin can be removed and underlying tissues can be positioned for a more sculpted look.
Posterior Body Lift
Incisions for a posterior body lift are made at the upper edge of the buttocks. Excess skin is trimmed away.
Breast Lift
Breast lift incisions are made around the areola and in the crease below the breasts. The surgeon removes excess tissue and uses sutures to lift the breasts to a perkier position.
Arm Lift
The incision for an arm lift is made along the inner arm, from the elbow to the armpit. Excess skin is removed, and the remaining tissue is repositioned to improve arm contours.
Recovery After Body Lift Surgery
The recovery process after post-weight loss surgery depends on the patient’s physical condition and the procedures performed. Most patients recover for two to three weeks before returning to work. Your doctor will advise you when you are able to resume strenuous activities and exercise after weight loss surgery. If you have lost weight through medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro, Emsculpt Neo® may be recommended to aid in toning and defining muscles post-surgery.
