Leo Lapuerta, MD Plastic Surgery - Houston, TX
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.
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.
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.
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.