Upper Body Lift Surgery
Gastric bypass and gastric banding can result in significant weight loss. Unfortunately, for many patients, this rapid weight loss can result in an acute excess of skin along with remaining pockets of fat. Excessive loose skin can also occur as a result of age and genetics. The upper body lift is a surgical procedure designed to correct these issues.
The upper body lift targets the upper arms, breasts, sides and back by combining the techniques of an arm lift, breast lift, liposuction and back roll excision. The procedure can effectively reduce loose skin along the arms, armpit and sides while also improving the breast shape and nipple position. Upper back rolls are also removed during surgery. The upper body lift may be performed on its own. However, for those considering a breast reduction, these procedures may be combined to allow for a single recovery and to help defray some of the costs.
Surgical Procedure
Michael Diaz, MD performs the upper body lift surgery in the hospital using general anesthesia. Surgical times average six hours, though this may be longer if additional procedures are performed at the same time. Female patients are asked to bring a bra with them to the surgery to help plan the best positioning of the incision and resulting scar to allow for maximum concealment. The surgery begins in the upper back area where incisions are made and excess skin is removed. Next, the arm lift and breast lift are performed. For the arm lift, an incision may be made on the inside of the arm through which excess skin and fat are removed. For the breast lift, excess skin may be removed and the remaining tissues and nipples repositioned through an anchor-shaped incision running around the areola and along the crease beneath the breast. Once the upper body lift is complete, you will be placed in a special support garment. The surgery is typically performed on an inpatient basis with an overnight hospital stay to allow for observation. You will be seen by Michael Diaz, MD on the night of your surgery and on the following morning before being discharged from the hospital.
Post Surgery
You should be up and about immediately after returning home on the day after your surgery. Michael Diaz, MD will prescribe medication to help relieve any discomfort that you experience. You will be seen daily by Michael Diaz, MD to have your dressings changed, and the drains inserted after surgery to collect excess fluid will be removed after about five to seven days. Non-strenuous work may be resumed within about one week of your upper body lift surgery. You will need to wear your compression garment for four weeks and avoid heavy lifting or pushing for four to six weeks. A return to full activity can usually be expected after six weeks. Michael Diaz, MD recommends post-operative lymphatic massage as this can help improve the final texture of your skin and more quickly resolve swelling.
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