Overview
Allentown plastic surgeon, Dr. Edward Guarino, offers weight loss patients the chance to complete their transformation with a lower body lift. This body contouring procedure improves the overall contour and shape of the lower body by removing excess skin, which results in a tighter, smoother appearance. Dr. Guarino uses a circumferential incision, which is sometimes referred to as a body lift 360, to address the lower abdomen, hips, flanks, and buttocks. In some cases, the upper thighs are also addressed. This surgery redefines the entire lower body and for many men and women, is a final step towards attaining a new, beautiful figure.
Reviews
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
- Average Cost
- $10,000 - $17,000
- Recovery Time
- 2-3 Weeks
- Average Procedure Time
- 3-4 Hours
- Post-op Follow-up
- 1 Week
- Procedure Recovery Location
- Out-Patient
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.
