Lower Body Lift Surgery
Following rapid weight loss from gastric bypass or gastric banding, individuals often experience a severe degree of excess skin as well as residual pockets of fat. Loose skin may also occur for other reasons, such as genetics or age. The lower body lift is a surgical procedure which combines several different techniques in order to correct these issues.
The lower body lift targets the abdomen, thighs and buttocks by combining the techniques of abdominoplasty, liposuction, the outer thigh lift and the buttock lift. It can effectively improve loose, hanging skin and separated muscles of the abdomen while also improving the appearance of the belly button. The procedure can correct fat deposits in the thighs, tighten loose skin of the outer thighs, improve saddle bags and reduce the overall size of the thighs. In addition, the lower body can lift and possibly augment drooping buttocks and improve some skin rolls on the back. The lower body lift is sometimes combined with a hernia repair as this can help to defray the overall costs and provides the added benefit of a single recovery.
Surgical Procedure
Michael Diaz, MD performs the lower body lift in the hospital using general anesthesia. Surgical times average six hours. On the day of your surgery, you will need to bring a pair of underwear that you would ideally like to cover your scar. Michael Diaz, MD will use this as a guideline for positioning the incisions. To start the procedure, the doctor will perform liposuction on the outer thighs. Incisions are then made on the sides and lower back to allow the buttocks and outer thighs to be lifted. Lastly, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is performed to remove excess skin along the abdomen. Once the surgery is complete, you will be placed in a special compression garment. The procedure is performed on an inpatient basis, meaning that you will stay overnight in the hospital for observation. For added recovery and comfort measures, you may choose to stay an additional night. You will be seen by Michael Diaz, MD on the night of your surgery and on the following morning.
Post Surgery
Though you will be up and about immediately after returning home, you will likely be walking in a somewhat stooped position. Walking upright may feel uncomfortable for the first week. You will, however, be able to sit immediately after your surgery. Michael Diaz, MD will prescribe medication to help control any discomfort that you experience and he will see you daily to change your dressings. Drains applied after surgery to collect excess fluid will be removed in the office after about five to seven days. Non-strenuous work can usually be resumed in about two weeks after the lower body lift procedure. Full activity can be resumed after six weeks and during this time you will need to continue to wear the compression garment and avoid heavy lifting or pushing. To help resolve swelling and improve the skin's final texture, Michael Diaz, MD recommends post-operative lymphatic massage.
If you're plagued by excess skin and fat of the abdomen, thighs and buttocks, a lower body lift may be right for you. Call our office today to schedule your consultation with Michael Diaz, MD. |
