Lower Body Lift

OVERVIEW

Individuals struggling with loose and excess skin following a major weight loss may consider a lower body lift to improve their contour and shape. Dr. Leo Lapuerta sometimes refers to this method as a body lift 360, which removes excess skin from the lower abdomen, hips, lower back and buttocks. During the surgery, the lower body is pulled up, and the underlying tissue tightened, to create a smooth and toned effect. For weight loss patients from Houston, Katy, Pearland and surround areas, this surgery can redefine the entire lower body. It is often a final step in their transformation towards a new, beautiful figure.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

During a lower body lift, an incision is made horizontally across the lower abdomen, circling the body. Through these incisions, excess fat pockets will be removed using liposuction and the underlying tissue and muscle will be pulled tight. An experienced surgeon will make every attempt to trim away as much loose skin as possible while protecting the incision area to minimize scarring.

DURING/AFTER THE PROCEDURE

All lower body lift surgeries are performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. The duration of the surgery depends on how many procedures are performed and to what extent. It is common for a surgery of this nature to take 3-4 hours or longer. The recovery can also be quite trying. Most patients will be required to spend a couple of nights in the hospital. It could take 2 weeks or longer before work and normal activities can resume. A lower body lift can create a natural shape and a leaner, more toned figure. Patients who adhere to a healthy lifestyle can enjoy their surgical results for years.

EXPECTED COST

The cost for a lower body lift will vary. The final cost will depend on how many procedures are being performed and how many stages it takes to complete the process (surgeries that are staged will inevitably cost more). On average, most patients can expect to pay between $10,000-$17,000. During the initial consultation, a detailed surgical plan will be prepared and the costs outlined for each specific case.

PLAN YOUR PROCEDURE

Recovery Time
2-4 Weeks

Average Procedure Time
5-7 Hours

Post-op Follow-up
1 Week

Procedure Recovery Location
Inpatient

LOWER BODY LIFT FAQS

HOW BAD IS THE SCARRING?

While this procedure produces great results, scarring is inevitable. However, every effort is made to create clean incisions and leave a thin scar line. These incisions are also created low to follow the natural bikini line and keep them hidden if a bathing suit is worn. The scars will continue to heal and fade over time. Most patients feel their sleeker, tighter body outweighs the scarring.

IS THIS SURGERY PAINFUL?

Because of the extent of this procedure, patients may feel discomfort during the recovery process. For this reason, patients are required to stay in the hospital for a couple of days to be monitored and will be prescribed pain medication to help minimize pain and discomfort.

WILL INSURANCE APPLY?

Yes, insurance may cover some portion of a body lift procedure. For massive weight loss patients, there may be chronic skin infections or other issues caused by obesity. This varies by patient condition, insurance policy and procedure. Patient benefits will be discussed during the pre-op meeting with one of our billing and insurance coordinators.

BEST TIME FOR SURGERY?

Individuals contemplating a lower body lift will need to be at or near their goal weight. If they anticipate losing a significant amount of weight, this needs to happen first. Once the weight has been lost, a physical will be required to ensure the body has stabilized enough to endure surgery.