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Losing weight is undoubtedly a challenging journey, but it is also a remarkable achievement. However, carrying extra weight for an extended period can lead to damaged elastin and collagen fibers, resulting in excess sagging skin. Other factors, such as aging and environmental damage, may also contribute to this condition. Unfortunately, excess skin can prompt new health issues. A body lift is by far the most effective way to remove it.
At Illuminate Plastic Surgery, we understand the importance of feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. For some individuals, a total body lift may culminate their weight-loss efforts. We are here to support and celebrate your journey and help you look and feel your very best.
The body lift procedure at Illuminate Plastic Surgery in Palo Alto and San Jose is performed by Dr. David Boudreault, MD FACS, a board-certified plastic surgeon formally trained in both general and plastic surgery. Dr. Boudreault has extensive experience operating on every part of the body, and delivering superior results for the most complex surgical procedures. At Illuminate, you’ll discover how we prioritize personalized, high-quality care throughout your entire journey.
A body lift is designed to remove excess skin and fat and lift and reposition the remaining skin to give you a smoother and firmer silhouette. This comprehensive surgical procedure targets, tightens, and tones multiple areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, buttocks, and thighs.
Dr. Boudreault uses the most innovative techniques and technologies available today to perform the body lift procedure to make this transformation possible. His patients can expect immediate improvements in their body shape following the surgery, with continued enhancements as the body heals and settles into its new contours.
The duration of a body lift procedure can vary depending on the surgery's extent and the specific targeted areas. Generally, a body lift can take anywhere from four to seven hours to complete. This timeframe includes pre-operative preparations, the surgical procedure itself, and post-operative care. During your initial consultation, Dr. Boudreault will help set expectations based on your unique anatomical considerations and the time involved for specific techniques.
Body lift procedures are performed at either one of our accredited operating rooms in San Jose or Palo Alto. For planning purposes, we advise patients to expect two to four weeks of downtime for recovery. Your time may vary based on the specific areas being treated and the extent of your surgery. To ensure our patients have the best possible recovery experience and comfort care, our team will manage at-home medical assistance, wound and drain care, meal planning, medication administration, and transportation for follow-up appointments. This stress-free recovery process facilitates a smooth post-surgery journey, improved results, and the peace of mind that all your important recovery needs are met.
Overall, the treatment series for a body lift is a carefully orchestrated multi-step process aimed at delivering transformative results while helping to improve your well-being. The first step is a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Boudreault to address any of your questions and discuss your aesthetic goals and medical history.
A body lift typically involves a combination of body contouring techniques, including liposuction, muscle contouring, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), thigh lift, buttock lift, and, in some cases, arm lifts. All of these procedures are designed to restore proportions and improve the overall appearance of the body.
A body lift and a tummy tuck are both procedures that address loose skin and excess fat. A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, focuses specifically on the front of the abdomen. It tightens the underlying abdominal muscles, removes excess tissue and skin, and re-drapes the skin. This procedure is best suited for individuals who are concerned about excess skin, stubborn fat, or a tummy pooch after pregnancy or weight loss.
A body lift, also called a belt lipectomy or lower body lift, goes beyond the tummy tuck and addresses multiple body parts, including the outer thighs, flanks, hips, buttocks, lower back, and abdomen. While it may be recommended similarly after pregnancy, it tends to be reserved for individuals who have experienced more significant weight loss or have undergone bariatric surgery. The procedure involves raising and tightening stretched muscles and excess skin in these areas. A body lift can be easily combined with an arm lift or a thigh lift for more complete rejuvenation. The decision between a body lift and a tummy tuck depends on the patient's specific areas of concern and goals, as well as their overall health and skin elasticity.
A body lift can be life-changing for anyone who has undergone dramatic weight loss and is ready to feel more confident in their skin. The benefits of a body lift include:
This procedure not only enhances appearance but also increases comfort and improves your capacity to exercise. Moreover, it can be a crucial step in the journey to better health and self-confidence for individuals who have worked hard to achieve significant weight loss.
A body lift primarily targets loose, hanging skin caused by massive weight loss, pregnancy, age, and sun damage. The body lift can also address excess fat in areas like the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen and resulting problems such as skin inflammation, difficulty in movement, and personal confidence.
Excess fat is the accumulation of too much adipose tissue, which can lead to various health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension. It can also cause the skin to appear saggy, droopy, and wrinkled, especially around the belly area. A pinch test can be used to differentiate between excess fat and loose skin. Excess fat feels thicker and denser than loose skin. Age, genetics, diet, and lifestyle choices are some of the factors that can contribute to the accumulation of excess fat. Treating it often requires a combination of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and, in some cases, medical interventions.
Loose skin, often a result of factors like aging, significant weight loss, pregnancy, or certain medical conditions, can cause discomfort and affect one's confidence. Preventative measures like sun protection and a balanced diet can help slow the development of sagging skin, and non-surgical options such as laser facelifts, radiofrequency, microneedling, and ultrasound skin tightening can provide minor improvements. None of these options, however, can do much to address more severe cases. A body lift is the most effective choice for all-over contouring.
Body lift candidates are typically individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, resulting in excess, sagging skin and tissue. Ideal candidates should be in good overall health and maintain a stable weight for a significant period. Contraindications may include health issues, such as diabetes, autoimmune conditions, or allergies to anesthesia. Age can also be a factor, as older individuals may have reduced skin elasticity and the ability to quickly heal.
During a body lift surgery consultation, you can expect to discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history with Dr. Boudreault. At this time, it’s essential to communicate openly about expectations and any health issues. To prepare for this treatment, you will need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation and review current medications.
It is also a good idea before your procedure to prepare protein-rich meals that are easily reheated as protein is good for your recovery. It's crucial to follow Dr. Boudreault’s instructions for post-operative care, which may include adjustments to medications, staying hydrated, and changing incision dressings. Tightness and swelling are normal, but you should call the Illuminate care team should you have any questions or are feeling symptoms such as a high fever or severe pain.
The body lift procedure involves the administration of intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. The duration of the surgery ranges from four to six hours, during which extensive incisions are made, the excess skin is then removed, and the incisions are closed. The length and pattern of the incisions depend on the amount and location of the excess skin. Results are visible almost immediately, but the final results may take one to two years to fully develop.
After undergoing a full-body lift surgery, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions, and small tubes may be inserted to aid in drainage. You will have comprehensive instructions for wound care, medications, follow-up appointments, and contact information for our responsive care team. Swelling reduction can take several weeks to months. You should refrain from strenuous activities for six to eight weeks to allow for optimal healing. It's important that you seek immediate medical attention for any unusual symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heartbeats. Maintaining a stable weight is essential for long-term results. You should also avoid direct sun exposure on incisions to prevent scarring.
At Illuminate Plastic Surgery, we are focused on exceptional care and personalized service. Dr. Boudreault takes the time to understand your important concerns and recommends techniques to provide the best results for unique anatomy. At every point in your journey, we provide a comfortable and convenient experience with an attentive team and the highest-level facilities. We’re excited to help you celebrate a new you and feel better in your skin and more confident than ever before.
Dr. David J. Boudreault and our dedicated team are ready to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Contact us at (408) 369-9300 to book your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier and happier future.
To minimize risks and support a healthy recovery, it is important that you understand and follow the aftercare instructions carefully prepared for you by Dr. Boudreault and the Illuminate team. Risks associated with a body lift may include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, asymmetry, changes in skin sensation, and the potential need for revision surgery.
The results of a body lift vary from patient to patient. You can expect to see visible results immediately and more improvements as swelling subsides. Full results, however, may take up to two years.
A body lift primarily focuses on removing excess skin and fat and tightening muscles to improve body contours and proportions. While it can lead to some weight reduction due to the removal of excess tissue, its main goal is to address sagging skin and tissue laxity rather than being a weight loss procedure.
Losing weight before a body lift procedure is essential for a successful outcome. Achieving and maintaining your ideal target weight for at least six months is generally recommended before considering a body lift surgery. This not only enhances the safety of the procedure but also improves the cosmetic results. Weight loss helps reduce the risk of complications and ensures that the skin has reached a stable state, allowing Dr. Boudreault to provide the best possible contouring results.
Yes, a body lift can be combined with other cosmetic treatments such as liposuction, breast augmentation, or arm lift to address multiple areas of concern and achieve a more comprehensive body contouring result. During consultation, we’ll help you determine the best combination of procedures based on your unique needs and goals.
For the cost of a body lift San Jose or Palo Alto patients can expect it to vary depending on the extent of the procedure or combination of procedures. Financing options are available to make the procedure more accessible, and in some cases, health insurance may partially cover it if deemed medically necessary.
At Illuminate we’re with you during every step of your journey toward greater self-confidence. Schedule a consultation with us today and let Illuminate’s expert team listen to your concerns and guide you through treatments and procedures to help you reach your individual goals. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating your renewed appearance and realized potential.
