Body Lift (Circumferential Abdominoplasty)

A body lift removes excess skin and fat from around the abdomen, lower back, hips, and buttocks, commonly after major weight loss.

How is this procedure performed?

The procedure involves a circumferential incision around the lower torso, tightening tissues and repositioning the remaining skin for improved body contour. A horizontal incision is made low on the abdomen and typically extends the whole way around the body. Where muscle repair is required, skin is lifted to expose the abdominal muscles, which are tightened and stitched together to create a firmer abdominal wall. Excess skin and fat are removed and the remaining skin is pulled downward and repositioned. The belly button is often reshaped or relocated to match the new contour.

Downtime

Patients will return home after a short stay in hospital. Initial recovery usually takes 2 weeks, during which swelling, bruising and discomfort are common. Light activities can often be resumed within a week but strenuous exercise or heavy lifting should be avoided until clearance is given by Dr Sjarif. A supportive abdominal band, known as a compression garment, is worn 24 hours a day for the first 6 weeks. It can be removed for showering.

Scars

A scar is typically positioned low on the abdomen and extends the whole way around the body and meets at the lower back of the body. However the incision technique varies in more extensive cases, patients may require a fleur-de-lis approach, which adds a vertical midline incision to allow greater skin removal and contouring.