Total body lift, also known as circumferential body lift, is a major surgical procedure that removes excess skin and reshapes the entire body. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple areas simultaneously, including the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, hips, and back. It is typically considered after significant weight loss or pregnancy, where excess skin can remain despite achieving a stable weight.

Indications for Total Body Lift

Before considering a total body lift, it is important to understand the specific indications for this complex procedure. Candidates for total body lift typically:

• Have experienced significant weight loss (at least 5 BMI points) through diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery
• Have achieved a stable weight and maintained it for at least 6 months
• Have loose, sagging skin that affects multiple areas of the body, causing discomfort, a rash in the loose folds of skin (intetrigo) and functional limitations
• Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure

Procedure Overview

Total body lift surgery is multifaceted and involves several surgical techniques tailored to address different areas of the body. It is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves strategically placed incisions to remove excess skin and reshape underlying tissues.

The specific techniques involved in a total body lift may include:

• Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): This involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, tightening the abdominal muscles, and creating a smoother, flatter contour. Sometime there is so much loose skin in the abdomen area that tissue in the midline needs to be removed, resulting in a vertical scar that goes from the chest to the pubis. This is called a “Fleur de Lys” abdominoplasty. The incisions may then extend all the way around the back as part of a lower body lift.
• Lower Body Lift: This addresses the buttocks, thighs, and hips through removing excess skin, tightening tissues, and lifting sagging areas. It is a circumferential excision of a belt of tissue. Depending on the amount of redundancy, sometimes the umbilicus (belly button) needs to be removed.
• Upper Body Lift: This procedure focuses on the upper torso, including the abdomen, flanks, and back. It removes excess skin and fat, tightens surrounding tissues, and improves body definition. Again, it is a “belt” excision of skin and fat right around the upper body below the breasts and is able to address both upper back fat and abdominal fat simultaneously. Depending on the amount of redundancy, sometimes the umbilicus (belly button) needs to be removed.
• Liposuction: This technique may be combined with other procedures as needed to remove stubborn pockets of fat and refine body contours.

Before and After Photos

Here is a before and after photo of a patient of A/Prof Damian Marucci who underwent a fleur de lys abdominoplasty with body lift following massive weight loss.

Recovery and Potential Risks

Total body lift surgery is a major operation and requires careful planning and a thorough recovery plan. Patients typically spend 1-3 nights in the hospital, followed by a 4-6 weeks recovery period at home. During this time, patients are advised to:

• Wear a compression garment to support treated areas and reduce swelling
• Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting
• Gradually resume normal activities under the guidance of their surgeon

As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications associated with a total body lift. These may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Seromas (fluid build-up under the skin)
• Wound healing complications
• Scarring
• Numbness or altered sensation in treated areas
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Pulmonary embolism (PE)
• Unsatisfactory results requiring revision surgery

A more detailed list of the potential complications of surgery like a total body lift can be found by clicking the link here.

Choosing a Qualified Surgeon

Selecting a fully qualified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in body contouring procedures is crucial for ensuring optimal outcomes and minimizing risks. Look for a surgeon who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) as well as the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). A/Prof Marucci has a FRACS in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is on the Education Committee of ASPS and is on the Board of ASAPS. A/Prof Marucci is registered a specialist in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery with AHPRA.

During the consultation with A/Prof Marucci, patients should:

• Discuss their goals and expectations openly
• Inquire about the specific techniques involved in the surgery
• Understand post-operative care and recovery expectations
• Learn about potential risks and complications associated with the procedure

Conclusion

Total body lift surgery can be a transformative procedure for individuals struggling with excess skin after significant weight loss or pregnancy. While this comprehensive approach can significantly improve body contours and alleviate discomfort, it is crucial to have realistic expectations and understand the complexities involved. Choosing a qualified plastic surgeon, like A/Prof Damian Marucci, and following comprehensive pre and post-operative care are paramount for maximizing success and minimizing potential risks.