Belt Lipectomy
Individuals who have achieved significant or massive weight loss may find they remain dissatisfied with the appearance of their lower body due to excess skin that does not retract after weight loss. This occurs when the skin has lost elasticity and is unable to return to its natural contour.
A lower body lift, also known as a belt lipectomy, is designed to remove excess skin and reshape the lower torso, improving overall contour and comfort. For many patients, this procedure represents the final step in their weight-loss journey, allowing their physical appearance to reflect the hard work they have already accomplished.
Before & After Gallery
We invite you to view our Lower Body Lift Before & After Photo Gallery to see real patient results achieved at Wells Plastic Surgery & Skin Care.
Why Consider a Lower Body Lift?
Excess skin following major weight loss can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally frustrating. Many patients describe the results of a lower body lift as life-changing, noting improvements not only in appearance but also in mobility, clothing fit, and confidence.
This procedure can dramatically improve body shape by addressing loose skin around the abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, and buttocks.
Candidates For A Lower Body Lift
A lower body lift may be appropriate for patients who:
- Have experienced massive or significant weight loss
- Have undergone bariatric surgery
- Are at or near a stable goal weight
- Are in good overall health
Patients who are still actively losing weight or planning future pregnancies are typically advised to delay surgery, as additional changes may affect results.
A Staged, Comprehensive Approach
Lower body lift surgery is often performed as part of a staged body contouring plan. While the initial procedure focuses on the lower torso, additional surgeries may be recommended in later stages to achieve optimal, balanced results.
Additional Procedures May Include:
- Breast lift, breast reduction, or breast augmentation
- Arm lift (brachioplasty)
- Medial thigh lift
- Liposuction
- Facial rejuvenation procedures
Staging procedures enhance safety, healing, and overall outcomes.
The Lower Body Lift Procedure
- Consultation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation to evaluate anatomy, review weight-loss history, discuss goals, and determine the appropriate surgical plan. Recovery expectations and follow-up care are reviewed in detail.
- Surgery: A lower body lift is one of the most involved body contouring procedures. The initial phase typically lasts four to five hours, with additional staged procedures performed separately as needed. Excess skin is removed circumferentially around the lower torso, allowing the thighs and buttocks to be lifted and the abdominal region tightened to restore natural contour.
- Hospital Stay: Due to the length and complexity of the surgery, an overnight hospital stay is required.
- Recovery: Recovery generally takes two to four weeks per surgical stage, depending on individual healing. Because the incision extends around the lower torso, scarring is expected; however, it is carefully placed to be concealed beneath underwear or swimwear and fades gradually over time.
- Return to Activity: Patients should plan time away from work with each surgical stage. Most individuals return to non-strenuous work approximately three weeks after a lower-body lift. Additional staged procedures require their own recovery periods.
Read what our patients are saying!
"Dr. Wells is as good as they come in terms of plastic surgeons. From the start I felt very comfortable and trusting in Dr. Wells and his amazing staff. I could not be happier with how my breast augmentation turned out, and I would happily refer anyone I knew to his practice."
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Schedule Your Consultation
To learn more about a lower body lift and whether it is right for you, please call (859) 255-6649 or complete the contact form to schedule your consultation. Wells Plastic Surgery & Skin Care proudly serves Lexington, Kentucky, and the surrounding areas.
*Individual results and experiences may vary.
