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The Lowdown on Belt Lipectomy
Belt lipectomy, more commonly known as a lower body lift, is a dramatic cosmetic procedure that combines a tummy tuck, thigh lift, and buttock lift into one operation. The procedure is designed to firm up the entire lower body, resulting in a tighter, smoother, and slimmer overall appearance.
Why Belt Lipectomy?
A belt lipectomy, or lower body lift, improves the appearance of the lower
body by removing sagging excess skin around the waist, thighs, and buttocks.
It is an attractive option for individuals who have undergone bariatric
surgery to lose weight, or have experienced rapid and dramatic weight
loss that has resulted in unwanted and unsightly skin around the lower
body. People who simply have sagging skin due to the normal aging process,
the effects of gravity, or multiple pregnancies are also good candidates
for the procedure.
The
Consultation
The initial consultation prior to a belt lipectomy is an important step
in the overall process. The extensive nature of this particular cosmetic
surgery requires that the plastic surgeon identify any risk factors and
discuss any concerns with the patient in order to ensure a clear understanding
of the operation. The surgeon should explain to the patient the procedural
steps, expectations, and the likely outcome of the surgery. The patient
should ask any questions and express any issues that he or she may have
during the pre-operative consultation. Patient and doctor may also discuss
whether or not liposuction will be performed in combination with the lower
body lift.
The Procedure
A lower body lift is a versatile cosmetic procedure; it can be performed
all at once or one step at a time, depending upon the patient’s
preferences and the doctor’s recommendations. Either way, it requires
that the patient be sedated or undergo general anesthesia. The plastic
surgeon will make incisions in discrete locations in order to access and
eliminate the excess skin tissue. The remaining skin is then “lifted”
and stretched upwards, and the incision is closed with sutures. During
a lower body lift, incisions are typically made across the lower back,
stomach, and pelvic area. If the entire procedure is performed at once,
it can take up to seven hours to complete.
The Recovery
Every case is different. The recovery period for a lower body lift can
last from three to four weeks, depending on the patient’s physical
health, as well as the specific details of the procedure. A full belt
lipectomy is a serious operation that requires the use of compression
garments, drainage tubes to allow excess blood and fluid to flow out of
the body during recovery. Significant bed rest and weekly check-ups with
the cosmetic surgeon are part of the process.
The Cost
Since a lower body lift is actually a combination of three different plastic
surgeries, it falls in the category of the more expensive cosmetic procedures
available. Although the cost varies in accordance with the skill and notability
of the chosen surgeon, and the geographical region where the operation
is performed, the average payout for the patient is approximately $15,000.
Because insurance does not typically cover elective, cosmetic surgery
such as a lower body lift, some surgeons offer financing plans to accommodate
patients who prefer to pay by installment rather than all at once.
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