Category: Post Weight Loss Surgery

Body Surgery after Massive Loss: What to Expect from Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty), Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy), and Belt Lipectomy Procedures
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Body Surgery after Massive Loss: What to Expect from Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty), Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy), and Belt Lipectomy Procedures

Upper body lift (upper torsoplasty), thigh lift (thigh lipectomy), and belt lipectomy are all surgical procedures designed to remove excess skin and fat. Body Surgery like an upper body lift (upper torsoplasty) typically targets the arms, back, and chest area, while thigh lift (thigh lipectomy) targets the inner or outer thighs. Belt lipectomy, also known as a lower body lift, targets the entire midsection, including the abdomen, hips, and back. These procedures may be suitable for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight or have excess skin and fat due to ageing or other factors. They are major surgical procedures that require extensive recovery periods and should only be performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon.

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon in Sydney NSW performing post-weight loss surgery to help patients achieve their desired results.

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What Is an Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty)?

An upper body lift (upper torsoplasty) is a body shaping surgery that targets the upper body areas, including the arms, chest, and back. The aim of the procedure is to remove excess skin and fat, and to address the upper body.

The surgical technique used for an upper body lift (upper torsoplasty) may vary depending on the individual’s unique needs and goals, as well as the surgeon’s approach. However, the basic steps of the procedure usually involve making incisions in the targeted areas, removing excess skin and fat, and tightening the remaining skin.

During the procedure, your surgeon may use liposuction to remove excess fat and address the overall shape of the upper body. They may also use various techniques to alter the shape of the arms and chest, including skin tightening, muscle tightening, and lifting procedures.

After the procedure, patients are typically advised to wear compression garments to help reduce swelling and support the healing process. They will also need to follow a postoperative care plan that includes taking medications as prescribed, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their progress.

The recovery period for an upper body lift (upper torsoplasty) can vary, but most patients can expect to take a few weeks off work and limit their physical activity for a few months. It may take up to six months or longer for the final results to become visible, and patients should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure.

What Is a Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy)?

Thigh lift (thigh lipectomy) is a type of body surgery procedure that targets the thighs, with the goal of altering their shape and contour. There are several types of thigh lifts (thigh lipectomy), each designed to target different areas of the thigh, and the surgical technique used may vary depending on the patient’s individual goals.

The three main types of thigh lifts (thigh lipectomy) are:

· Inner Thigh Lift

This procedure targets the inner thigh and is designed to remove excess skin and fat in that area. The surgeon makes an incision in the groin area, and may extend it down the inner thigh to remove the excess skin and fat. The remaining skin is then pulled up and sutured into place.

· Outer Thigh Lift

An Outer Thigh Lift is a surgical procedure that targets the outer thighs, also known as the “saddlebags”. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have excess skin and fat in the outer thigh region that is resistant to diet and exercise.

During an Outer Thigh Lift (thigh lipectomy) procedure, your surgeon will make incisions in the targeted areas, typically along the groin area and extending down the inner thigh. The excess skin and fat will be removed, and the remaining skin will be tightened and altered to create a more toned and contoured appearance.

· Bilateral Thigh Lift

This procedure targets both the inner and outer thighs and is designed to alter the overall contour and shape of the thighs. The surgeon makes an incision in the groin area and may extend it down the inner and outer thighs to remove excess skin and fat. The remaining skin is then pulled up and sutured into place.

The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and can take several hours to complete. After the procedure, you may need to stay in the hospital overnight for monitoring.

The recovery period can take several weeks to several months, depending on the extent of the surgery and your individual healing process. During the first few days after surgery, you may experience pain, swelling, and bruising.

After the procedure, patients will need to follow a postoperative care plan that includes taking medications as prescribed, wearing compression garments to reduce swelling, and attending follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress. The recovery period for a thigh lift (thigh lipectomy) can vary depending on the extent of the procedure, but most patients can expect to take a few weeks off work and limit their physical activity for several weeks. Full recovery may take up to six months, and patients should have realistic expectations about the final outcome of the procedure.

What Is a Belt Lipectomy?

A belt lipectomy, also known as a lower body lift, is a cosmetic procedure that targets the midsection of the body, including the abdomen, hips, and lower back. The goal of the procedure is to remove excess skin and fat, and to contour and alter the shape of the midsection.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a circumferential incision around the lower abdomen, back, and hips, much like a belt. The excess skin and fat are then removed, and the remaining skin is pulled up and sutured into place. The procedure may also include liposuction to remove excess fat and improve the overall shape of the midsection.

The procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight, as well as those who have excess skin and fat due to ageing or other factors.

The surgical technique used for a belt lipectomy may vary depending on the individual’s unique goals, as well as the surgeon’s approach. However, the basic steps of the procedure usually involve making the circumferential incision, removing excess skin and fat, and tightening the remaining skin.

FAQ’s about Body Surgery – Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty), Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy) and Belt Lipectomy

Who is a suitable candidate for an Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty)?

  • A suitable candidate for an Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty) is someone who has lost a significant amount of weight and has excess skin and fat in the upper body area. The candidate should be in good overall health, with no underlying medical conditions that may interfere with the surgery or the recovery process. It is important for the candidate to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure, and to be committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after the surgery.

How long does the recovery process take for a Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy)?

  • The recovery process after a thigh lift (Thigh Lipectomy) will vary depending on the extent of the surgery, the techniques used, and the individual’s overall health. In general, the recovery process for a thigh lift may take several weeks or longer, and it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions closely to ensure proper healing. During the first week after surgery, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the treated areas. You will need to take several days off from work or other daily activities to allow your body to heal. In the weeks following surgery, you may need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the treated areas. You may also need to avoid strenuous exercise and physical activity for several weeks to ensure proper healing. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing and address any concerns or complications that may arise. Overall, the recovery process for a thigh lift (thigh lipectomy) may take several weeks to several months, depending on the extent of the surgery and your individual healing process. It is important to be patient and to take the necessary time to allow your body to heal properly to ensure the best possible outcome.

How long does the surgery take for a Belt Lipectomy?

  • The length of a Belt Lipectomy surgery can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the surgical techniques used. On average, the surgery can take anywhere from 3-6 hours. The patient will be under general anaesthesia during the surgery, and may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two after the procedure.

What are the potential risks and complications of an Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty)?

  • As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with an Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty), including bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, skin loss, nerve damage, and blood clots. Patients should discuss these risks with their surgeon and follow their postoperative care plan closely to minimise the risk of complications.

Can I combine multiple procedures, such as a Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy) and a Belt Lipectomy?

  • It is possible to combine multiple procedures, such as a Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy) and a Belt Lipectomy, depending on the individual patient’s needs and goals. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of combining procedures with the surgeon, as well as the potential impact on the length and complexity of the surgery, the recovery process, and the overall outcome. It is also important to ensure that the patient is a good candidate for multiple procedures and that they are committed to following the postoperative care plan closely.

Further Reading about Post Weight Loss Procedures

Medical References about Body Surgery – Upper Body Lift (Upper Torsoplasty), Thigh Lift (Thigh Lipectomy) and Belt Lipectomy

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon and a member of FRACS & ASPS. He has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has ensured that thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia have received high quality surgical care.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

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Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Navigating the Road to Recovery: Understanding the Full Body Lift (Torsoplasty) Surgery Recovery Process
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Navigating the Road to Recovery: Understanding the Full Body Lift (Torsoplasty) Surgery Recovery Process

Full body lift surgery, also known as a torsoplasty surgery or circumferential body lift, is a type of plastic surgery procedure that is used to remove excess skin from the entire body after significant weight loss. The procedure typically involves removing excess skin and fat from multiple areas of the body, including the abdomen, hips, thighs, back, arms, and buttocks. This type of surgery is often performed after significant weight loss or after major changes in weight, such as after pregnancy or as a result of ageing.

Full body lift surgery is a complex procedure that is usually performed under general anaesthesia and can take several hours to complete. It typically involves multiple incisions and may require a multi-stage approach, with separate procedures performed on different areas of the body.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and to understand the risks and potential complications associated with full torsoplasty surgery. Good candidates for this procedure are individuals who are in good physical health, at a stable weight, and who have realistic expectations for their results.

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing full body lift procedures in Sydney NSW.

Download Dr Hunt’s Guide to Excess Skin Reduction (Torsoplasty)

Excess Skin Reduction

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Pain and Swelling after Full Body Lift (Torsoplasty)

What to expect immediately after surgery

Immediately after your full body lift torsoplasty surgery, you can expect to experience some pain and swelling. This is a normal part of the healing process and is to be expected following any major surgery. Your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may feel. The swelling will typically start to subside within a few days and should be gone within a few weeks. It’s important to keep in mind that the severity of pain and swelling can vary from person to person and that your plastic surgeon will be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

How to manage pain and swelling

Managing pain and swelling after full body lift surgery is an important part of the recovery process. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to manage pain and swelling, including over-the-counter pain medication and/or prescription pain medication. It’s important to take your pain medication as directed and to not exceed the recommended dosage. Additionally, applying cold compresses to the affected areas can help to reduce swelling and soothe any discomfort you may be feeling. It’s important to avoid any activities that may cause additional stress to the surgical areas, such as strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting.

Timing for Subsiding of Swelling

The timing for the subsiding of swelling after a full body lift (torsoplasty) surgery will vary from person to person. Typically, swelling will start to subside within a few days and should be gone within a few weeks. However, some swelling may persist for several months, especially in areas where multiple procedures were performed. Your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with a more accurate timeline based on your individual case and will monitor your progress during follow-up appointments. It’s important to keep in mind that the subsiding of swelling is a gradual process and that full results may take several months to become visible.

Download Dr Hunt’s Guide to Recovery

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Returning to Work and Light Activities

Most patients are able to return to work and light activities within 2-4 weeks after the procedure. However, it is important to avoid any strenuous activities or exercise for at least 6-8 weeks to allow for proper healing.

It’s also important to listen to your body and to not push yourself too hard too soon. You may experience some fatigue and discomfort during the early stages of your recovery, which is normal. Gradually increasing your activity level as your body allows is the best approach. Keep in mind that every individual’s recovery is different, and it’s important to follow the specific instructions and guidelines provided by your plastic surgeon. Attending your follow-up appointments and communicating any concerns or questions with your plastic surgeon can help ensure that you’re making progress and that your recovery is on track.

Follow-Up Appointments

Follow-up appointments are an important part of the recovery process after full body torsoplasty surgery. During these appointments, your plastic surgeon will assess your progress, check for any complications, and answer any questions you may have. Your plastic surgeon will also monitor the healing of your surgical wounds. These appointments are crucial for monitoring your recovery.

It’s important to attend all of your follow-up appointments as scheduled and to communicate any concerns or questions you may have with your plastic surgeon. Additionally, be prepared to discuss your progress, including any changes in your physical or emotional well-being, during these appointments.

Final Results after Full Torsoplasty Surgery

The length of time it takes to see the final results of your full body lift torsoplasty surgery will depend on a variety of factors, including the extent of your procedure, your individual healing process, and the specific techniques used during your surgery. However, most patients begin to see significant changes in their body shape within a few weeks of their surgery, with the final results becoming apparent over the next several months.

The final results of your full torsoplasty surgery can be long-lasting, provided that you maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the ageing process and changes in weight can impact the longevity of your results. By following the advice of your plastic surgeon and taking care of your body you can sustain the results for longer.

FAQs about Full Body Lift (Torsoplasty) Surgery Recovery Time

How long does it take to recover from full body lift torsoplasty surgery?

  • The recovery time from full body lift surgery can vary from patient to patient, depending on several factors such as the extent of the procedure, your age, and overall health. On average, patients can expect to take about 2-4 weeks off from work and strenuous activities, and it can take several months for the swelling to subside and the final results to become apparent.

Will I experience pain after full torsoplasty surgery?

  • Pain and discomfort are common after full body lift surgery. However, your plastic surgeon will provide you with pain management options to help alleviate any discomfort during the recovery period.

How long will I need to wear compression garments after full body lift (torsoplasty) surgery?

  • Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding the length of time you will need to wear compression garments. Typically, patients are required to wear these garments for several weeks after the surgery to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.

When can I return to work and normal activities after full body lift torsoplasty surgery?

  • The timing of your return to work and normal activities will depend on the extent of your procedure and your individual healing process. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific guidelines regarding when you can safely return to work and normal activities, but typically patients can expect to take about 2-4 weeks off from work and strenuous activities.

Are there any restrictions on physical activity after full body lift (torsoplasty) surgery?

  • There are restrictions on physical activity after full body lift (torsoplasty) surgery. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific guidelines regarding what types of physical activity you should avoid and when it is okay to resume your normal routine. It’s important to follow these guidelines.

Further Reading about Torsoplasty Surgery

Medical References about Full Body Lift (Torsoplasty) Surgery

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon and a member of FRACS & ASPS. He has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction mammoplasty is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.