Body lift is an operation that can be performed for both men and women. It involves removing the excess abdominal skin and fat, and usually repositioning the umbilicus (belly button) to a more aesthetic position. It also involves removing excess skin and fat from the flanks and the back.
Body lift
What is a body lift (circumferential lipectomy)?
Is it suitable for me?
Most people who are interested in this operation have either lost a significant amount of weight, have have a stubborn roll that they can’t lose with exercise alone, or have love handles that they want addressed. The goal is to have a flatter body contour which may help you fit into clothes you otherwise couldn’t. Whatever your desired outcome is, Marc Seifman is able to help guide you on your journey to achieve your own personal goals.
Can I have a body lift at the same time as liposuction?
A body lift can be performed alone or with liposuction (click here). The body lift is able to remove skin and fat from certain areas of the abdomen, flanks and back. Liposuction may help with contouring of these areas.
What is the difference between an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and a body lift?
An abdominoplasty traditionally addresses the skin and excess tissue on the anterior abdomen (tummy). An extended abdominoplasty has a longer scar which helps address stubborn fat and skin on the flanks. A body lift usually has a scar that encircles the waist, and is able to help with excess back fat and may help with a slight degree of buttock lift. Marc Seifman is happy to explain this to you and what best suits you.
What scars will I have?
There are scars along the bottom of the abdomen and usually around the belly-button, or umbilicus, although Marc Seifman aims to make these as discreet as possible. The scar along the bottom of the abdomen continues around the waist, joining up at your back. Liposuction helps to remove fat from the areas that an abdominoplasty can’t address, and help with shaping your body.
Will I have drains in my body?
Most commonly, there will be two drains used for the front, and potentially two more at your back. They typically begin to be removed on the second day after the operation, although this decision will be made by Marc Seifman depending on how much volume there is in the drain bottle. You may be able to go home with a drain in, and this can be removed when you see Marc Seifman for your first post-operative follow-up outside hospital.
What is the usual timeline?
To begin your journey with Marc Seifman, you will typically have an initial consultation to discuss your goals and see how we can help you. It is important to remember that the initial consultation is a no obligation consultation. If you wish to proceed, we will schedule the surgery on a date that suits you. We will discuss the steps you need to take in the lead up to your surgery, and also on the day of your procedure.
Initially, you may experience some discomfort in the abdomen,flanks and back, in particular if you have had extensive liposuction. You will be wearing a post-operative binder and have instructions for medications to take at home, and exercises to perform. You should be able to go home within three days.
You should be able to return to work within two to three weeks depending on what your regular occupation is. We advise against strenuous physical activity and exercise within the first six weeks.
