A lower body lift is a cosmetic procedure that is performed to shape or contour the body, focusing on the tummy in a circumferential manner. This includes the front of the tummy, the lateral sides (love handle area), and the lower back. It can be done alone or combined with thigh lift surgery or liposuction. It is a common and emerging cosmetic procedure in Pakistan and Punjab, primarily used to address the problems of loose skin.
Candidates for Lower Body Lift
The main candidates for a lower body lift are those who have:
- Massive weight loss after bariatric surgery procedures like sleeve gastrectomy or gastric banding
- Significant weight loss due to excessive exercise and dieting
Consultation and Preparation
Clients visit a consultant plastic and cosmetic surgeon for a detailed history and examination to assess the extent of loose skin. After the examination, the procedure details, recovery time, outcome, benefits, and potential side effects are discussed. Any comorbid conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, hepatitis, or heart problems are also inquired about during the consultation. Necessary investigations like baseline blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray are advised to assess fitness for general anesthesia.
Procedure
This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. Before anesthesia in the pre-operative room, markings are made. After general anesthesia, the patient is draped to ensure sterile conditions for surgery.
- Prone position: The incision site is infiltrated with a solution, and the incision is made. Skin flaps are raised to the marked extent, excess skin is removed, and hemostasis is secured. The backside wound is then closed in three layers.
- Supine position: Infiltration is done at the incision site on the front side. The incision is made, skin flaps are raised, and any weakness in the rectus muscle is addressed by tightening or plication. Excess skin is removed, and the umbilicus (navel) is preserved and repositioned by creating a new hole. Hemostasis is secured, and the wound is closed in three layers. Usually, one or two drains are placed to avoid fluid or blood collection in the abdomen, and dressing is applied.
If the procedure is combined with liposuction, liposuction is performed first. If combined with a thigh lift, the thigh lift procedure is done after the abdomen procedure is completed.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
- The patient is usually kept hospitalized for 1-2 days.
- Compression garments are advised to support the stitching area.
- Initial swelling and bruising may occur, typically settling within 1-2 weeks.
- The patient is kept in a position that minimizes strain on the front and back stitching areas.
- After 2-3 days, the patient is advised to stand up and walk slowly. For the first week, extra care is needed around the stitching sites.
- Drains, if placed, are removed after 2-3 days.
- After a week, the patient is encouraged to walk at home with the compression garment in place. Compression garments should be worn for 4-6 weeks to achieve optimal results and symmetry.
- After two weeks, the patient can gradually return to routine work, avoiding excessive flexion or extension of the body.
- Good results are generally achieved after 2-3 months when the edema has settled.
The overall satisfaction rate is more than 90% when performed by a trained and experienced plastic and cosmetic surgeon.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits
- Contouring of the lower body is achieved.
- High patient satisfaction rate.
- Improved body symmetry.
- Increased confidence to reintegrate into society.
- Both males and females can wear clothes of their choice.
Risks and Side Effects
Although risks are minimal with an experienced surgeon, potential side effects include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Blood collection (hematoma)
- Fluid collection (seroma)
- Asymmetry
- Infection
- Wound dehiscence (breakdown of wound edges)
- Scar hypertrophy
Cost
The cost is variable, typically ranging from 2 lac to 4 lac rupees, depending on whether the procedure is done alone or combined with liposuction or a thigh lift.