Body Lift at the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center...

Body Lift Introduction:

A body lift, also known as a belt lipectomy, is a procedure to raise and reshape unsightly, sagging body contours.  During the aging process, skin looses some elasticity, causing the mid-section to lose its natural shape and firmness.  This procedure is designed to remove loose skin and related fat deposits, thus providing a more youthful appearance.  A body lift can be applied to the lower torso and upper legs including the abdomen, waist, inner/outer thighs, buttocks, and/or hips. Liposuction may also be completed in conjunction with a body lift.

Procedure Goals:
  • Reshape mid-body contour.
  • Correct sagging skin and fat due to aging or excessive weight loss.
  • Remedy weight gain and stretched skin caused by multiple pregnancies.
    • The Procedure:

    The precise procedure varies with each patient, depending on the body type and desired surgical outcome.  Generally speaking, the body lift procedure entails making an incision that follows the upper and/or inner thigh, to the waistline.  In more extensive surgeries, the incision goes completely around the waist and lower back.  Adjustments to the buttocks and thighs require an incision at the crease of the buttocks.  Excess skin is then removed, followed by the underlying fat deposits.  Finally, the skin is pulled taught and sutured into the new configuration.  The entire procedure can last from 3 to 7 hours.  The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

    Body Lift Recovery:

    Bandages are applied right after surgery to minimize swelling and provide support.  Tubes are often placed to drain excess fluids.  The scars resulting from the incisions are carefully placed so as to minimize visibility.  Patients sometimes report discomfort associated with surgery which can be treated with oral medication.  Recovery time varies with the extent of the procedure.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions that are provided prior to the surgery.

     

    Frequently Asked Questions About Body Lift:

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    A:

    It is a relatively common practice for Dr. Summers to perform multiple procedures during one operation at the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center.  Having several simultaneous procedures saves you the expense of paying the operating room and anesthesia costs more than once.  The decision to have multiple procedures done depends on which procedures are being done, the extent of surgery, the operating time, and your age/health.  With body lift procedures, Dr. Summers may perform some local liposuction in addition to the lift.
    A:

    During your consultation we will discuss your desired changes and expectations, review your medical history and current health, and make an assessment on whether the procedure(s) in question are right for you.  This is a good time to ask specific questions about the procedure so that you are fully prepared, mentally and emotionally, for surgery.  We will discuss the results that can be achieved, with the aid of photos and/or computer imaging.  When a final decision is made, you will need to sign an informed consent stating that you are fully aware and understand what is entailed by your pending operation, including the potential complications and secondary effects.
    A:

    Generally, post-operative instructions call for rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time.  The length of recovery varies with each procedure and is different for each individual.  Bruises usually disappear within a few days, and most swelling is gone in a matter of weeks.  If you follow our post-operative instructions carefully, you will be able to enjoy your normal activities within no time.  Your scars will fade over time but are permanent.  We take care to conceal any scars so that they are barely visible, if at all.  The image-enhancing effects of plastic surgery become more evident over time with certain procedures taking up to a year for your body to fully adjust and settle into its new look.  When you come in for your consultation we can discuss your expected recovery period and any post-operative instructions in detail.
    A:

    Some insurance companies will partially cover the costs incurred for body contouring procedures following massive weight loss.  For example, patients who have had a gastric bypass procedure may be able to obtain some insurance reimbursement for body lift and breast lift procedures.  If your insurance provides coverage, we will help you with pre-authorization and submission of your claim.

    Please note that each patient is personally responsible for fully paying the quoted fees for their surgery prior to the day of surgery.  Your insurance company will directly reimburse you after the surgery for your out-of-pocket (pre-paid) expenses.
    A:

    The type of the anesthesia varies with each procedure.  For some procedures, only local anesthesia or local anesthesia with intravenous (IV) sedation is needed.  This method will allow you to be awake, but insensitive to any pain.  In more complex procedures, general anesthesia is needed and you will be asleep during the entire procedure.  The anesthesia used in your operation will depend on the type and extent of the procedure(s), your age, and the surgeon’s preference.
    A: Maryland Plastic Surgery is Maryland's premiere cosmetic surgery center and medical spa. The Center's director, Dr. Adam Summers, is an expert cosmetic surgeon who uses advanced techniques to achieve natural looking results.  Just 15 minutes from Baltimore, Howard County (Columbia) and Annapolis, the Center specializes in tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and facelift procedures. © Baltimore Maryland Plastic Surgery Center and Medical Spa.