A body lift is a comprehensive surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and reshape areas affected by major weight loss or age-related laxity. Depending on individual needs, this may involve a lower body lift, addressing the abdomen, flanks, buttocks and thighs, or an upper body lift that targets the upper back, chest and arms. These procedures can restore a more balanced and comfortable body contour, improving mobility, clothing fit and day-to-day function. Body lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, and recovery time varies based on the extent of the surgery and areas treated.
A body lift is often recommended when generalised laxity of the abdominal tissues develops after significant weight loss. This has become increasingly common, particularly in people who have undergone bariatric surgery.
A body lift can involve a combination of procedures tailored to your needs:
For a broader overview of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, you may find our guide to common surgical procedures helpful.
Body lift surgery after weight loss can offer a range of physical, emotional, and health-related benefits, particularly for those who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with excess or sagging skin. Here are the key benefits:
A body lift can be combined with other surgical procedures to reshape and improve the appearance of the body, often after major weight loss. The specific procedures involved can vary depending on the patient’s goals:
A body lift may be suitable if you experience significant excess skin following substantial weight loss, pregnancy or ageing. Ideal candidates maintain a stable weight, are in good general health and notice concerns such as skin irritation, chafing, difficulty with clothing fit or discomfort when moving. Your surgeon will assess your goals, skin quality and overall health to determine whether a lower, upper or total body lift is the most appropriate approach for you.
A body lift, sometimes referred to as a belt lipectomy, involves the removal of excess skin and soft tissue around the torso and thighs. Your surgeon will mark the surgical areas, and photographs may be taken for your medical record. During surgery, your position is adjusted to allow safe access to each treatment area, and the abdominal wall muscles may be tightened if required, similar to an abdominoplasty.
At your first consultation, your surgeon will discuss your desires and concerns. Your past medical history and medications are also recorded, and it is important to bring this information to the consult. Your surgeon will record your body mass index and perform an examination. Photos may be taken for your medical records. We recommend that you have a second appointment before the surgery so that you have another opportunity to discuss any concerns with your surgeon.
Following the surgery you will be required to stay in hospital for a few days. You will have surgical drains in place and wear a compression garment. It is important to avoid any unnecessary activity for the first 2 weeks. Over this period, it is okay to dress yourself, make a cup of tea and go to the toilet for example. It is not okay to drive. Gradually, from 2 to 4 weeks, you will regain your independence and increase your level of activity. By 6 weeks, most people can resume more strenuous activity.
If you have an infection or problems with the wound healing, the amount of time spent convalescing is significantly increased. Allowances with work and other commitments should be considered.
When body lift surgery is undertaken and meets the suitability requirements according to Medicare listed above, the majority of the cost is rebatable through Medicare and standard private health insurance. This does require a referral from your family doctor.
After your consultation, a detailed quote will be provided to you including the surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee, hospital fee and support garments for your initial recovery.
The results of a body lift procedure is durable but the scars and contour will change subtly over time. If you gain or lose weight this will affect the contours.
The risks and complications of a body lift are not insignificant. General complications including bleeding (requiring a blood transfusion), infection (requiring hospital admission) and further surgery to address a complication can cause significant delays in your recovery and increased morbidity. At the time of your consultation your surgeon will discuss these complications with you.
Body lift surgery typically takes 3 to 6 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure and the areas being treated. Factors like the surgeon’s technique, whether it’s combined with other surgeries, and the patient’s individual anatomy can also affect the duration.
Body contouring is the broader term used for procedures that reshape areas of the body after weight loss, pregnancy or ageing. A body lift is one type of body contouring procedure.
There is no single amount of weight every patient needs to lose before having a body lift. Suitability depends on factors such as excess skin, skin irritation, discomfort, clothing fit, mobility, overall health and whether your weight is stable.
Recovery after body lift surgery varies depending on the extent of surgery and the areas treated. Body lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, and recovery time will depend on whether the procedure involves a lower body lift, upper body lift or a more comprehensive body contouring plan. Your surgeon will provide personalised aftercare instructions, including guidance around rest, wound care, movement, support garments and follow-up appointments.
Body lift surgery may be eligible for a Medicare rebate or private health insurance support in some cases, but it is not automatically covered. Coverage usually depends on whether the procedure is considered medically necessary and meets the relevant Medicare Benefits Schedule criteria.
Yes, in some cases a body lift and abdominoplasty may be performed as part of the same surgical plan.
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Please be aware that all surgical procedures require a consultation with our plastic surgeons to allow a thorough assessment and discussion of your specific needs.
