Body Lift in Dallas and Allen, TX
The body lift procedure, also called skin removal surgery, is usually done on the patient who has recently lost a large amount of weight, often with a weight-loss procedure. When a patient has been overweight for a very long time, or when the weight loss happens fairly quickly, the skin’s elasticity is insufficient, and the result is excess folds of skin around the midsection.
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Am I a Candidate for a Body Lift?
Patients seeking body lift surgery typically have undergone bariatric surgery, lost massive weight after dieting, or have loose skin following pregnancy. Suitable candidates must be in good health with no surgical risk factors. You should have realistic goals for the results of your surgery and a positive outlook.
Other characteristics include:
- Excess baggy, loose, or hanging skin
- No medical conditions that impair healing
- At a stable weight for at least 12 months (two years is better)
- Commitment to a continued healthy lifestyle
- Non-smoker
An in-depth consultation with Dr. Todd Pollock can best determine whether you are a good candidate for a body lift.
How Is a Body Lift Performed?
This surgical procedure is an extension of an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), in that the incision is continued around the posterior (back) trunk.
In contrast to the traditional abdominoplasty, which tightens the abdominal skin in a downward direction, the direction of pull in the posterior part of the extended abdominoplasty surgery is upward, thereby lifting the buttocks and outer thighs. The procedure also removes excess fat and skin on the back, hips, and flanks that can be resistant to diet and exercise.
Body lift surgery can be done as a single procedure or in two separate surgeries. This is most commonly done as a single procedure, which addresses both the front and back. The abdominoplasty is done first, and, at a later surgery, the posterior lift is carried out.
Although a single procedure is more convenient, patients should understand that two separate procedures may have certain advantages. This two-stage approach can be safer, with an easier recovery (or easier recoveries), resulting in reduced hospitalization.
As with any other plastic surgery, a body lift is not a “routine” procedure and must be individualized. To obtain information and recommendations specific to your situation, it is imperative to consult with a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
What Can I Expect During My Body Lift Recovery?
Recovery time and discomfort vary, depending upon the extent of surgery and whether it’s done as one surgery or two.
You will probably go home the same day, bandaged and wrapped in compression garments. You will have some soreness and pain during the first week. Our team helps you minimize your discomfort with effective pain management medication and techniques.
You can usually return to work and light activities by the third week. Normal activity can often be resumed by the fourth week.
You need to wear compression garments during your healing process and avoid smoking.
When Will I See My Body Lift Results?
You will see some immediate results from your body lift plastic surgery; however, swelling and bruising will camouflage the results for a few weeks or months. The full effects may not be completely realized until the one-year mark.
Frequently Asked Questions About Body Lift Surgery
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How much is a body lift in Dallas, TX?
The cost of your body lift in Dallas will vary significantly depending on the extent of your procedure and how much excess skin and fat needs to be removed. Additionally, the cost will be different if other plastic surgery procedures, such as an arm lift or a thigh lift, are being performed simultaneously.
Cost factors include facility fees, anesthesia fees, surgeon’s fees, and whether your surgery will take place in one day or two.
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What kind of anesthesia is used during a body lift?
Due to the extensiveness of a body lift, this surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Depending on the extent of the surgery, this procedure might be an outpatient procedure, or you might need to stay overnight.
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What procedures can be performed with a body lift?
A body lift removes excess skin. In some cases, it may be desirable to remove stubborn pockets of fat as well. Therefore, many body lift procedures are performed along with targeted liposuction.
Other complementary “lifting” procedures may be necessary to achieve the overall results you desire. Some examples include a breast lift, arm lift, or facelift (which will be performed at a separate time).
During a complete lower body lift, or a 360º body lift, your surgeon will address the waist, hips, abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.
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Do I need a body lift or a tummy tuck?
Patients struggling with excess skin and fat around the midsection may be confused as to whether they need a body lift or a tummy tuck.
If your concerns are isolated to the lower and upper abdomen, then a tummy tuck is likely sufficient; however, if you have excess skin that extends to the hips, lower back, or buttocks, then a body lift is more appropriate. Both procedures are able to address excess skin, tissue, and separated muscles in the lower abdomen.
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Why do I have loose skin after weight loss?
Skin can easily stretch as you gain weight. Unfortunately, due to the loss of collagen and elastin (which is a natural part of aging), many men and women find that the skin cannot contract.
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Can a body lift help me after pregnancy?
While most patients choose body lift surgery after bariatric surgery or significant weight loss, women who have experienced one or more pregnancies and now have laxity surrounding the circumference of their midsection may benefit from the surgery.
Dr. Pollock will evaluate your skin condition to determine which surgical techniques are most appropriate for your needs.
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Why might I need two surgeries for my body lift?
While some body lift procedures can be accomplished with a single operation, others require two. This will depend on the extent of excess skin present on the body and how long the surgery will take. For patients with excess skin in multiple areas, the surgery may take too long to safely perform under anesthesia. Dr. Pollock will be able to determine whether your surgery will be performed as one or two procedures during your consultation.
How many follow-up appointments will I need after a body lift?
Plan for three post-operative visits with Dr. Pollock after your breast lift:
- One week following your surgery
- Your two-month check-in
- Your final visit should occur about six months after surgery.
It is essential to call Dr. Pollock with any concerns; this may include increasing pain, persistent redness at the incision site, discharge, wound opening, or anything else that worries you.
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How long do the results from a body lift last?
This is a permanent surgical procedure. If you maintain a healthy diet and good fitness, you should continue to enjoy the results of your body lift for many years to come. Naturally, aging leads to less skin elasticity and firmness. So, time and biology will slowly change how your body looks as you grow older. But again, if you remain active and eat well, you can help prevent premature aging and skin laxity.
Financing Information
We are committed to helping you attain your cosmetic goals and are happy to work with you to find a payment method or plan that fits your situation. We offer financing through CareCredit, which provides flexible repayment options.
Financing Available
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Contact information for individual North Dallas Plastic Surgery offices
North Dallas Office
8305 Walnut Hill Ln #210
Dallas, TX 75231
Phone: (214) 363-2575
Directions & Office HoursAllen, Tx Office
317 N. Central Expressway Suite 100
Allen, Texas 75013
Phone: (214) 509-0270
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