Body Lift - Frequently Asked Questions

In Phoenix and Glendale, Arizona

1. What is a body lift?

A body lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, hips, thighs and buttocks. It gives a more shapely, proportional appearance to the body. In some cases, liposuction is performed as well to remove excess fatty tissue before lifting the skin.

2. Who is a good candidate for a body lift?

Men and women who are in good general health and who wish to improve the proportions and appearance of their lower body are usually good candidates. Many patients seeking a lower body lift have had massive weight loss, often from gastric bypass or lap band surgery. Whlile results may be quite dramatic, t is important with a body lift, or  other plastic surgery procedure, that you have realistic goals.

3. What is an upper body lift?

An upper body lift is most commonly performed after massive weight loss following gastric bypass surgery. This procedure typically involves a combination of breast augmention and or lift, brachioplasty to correct sagging skin on the arms and removal of chest and back rolls. It is not done at the same time as a lower body lift addressing the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.

4. What will be discussed during the consultation for a body lift?

It is important to be open and honest about your medical history and expectations. Dr. Angelchik will explain every aspect of the procedure and show you before-and-after pictures of previous patients who have had the surgery. He will  discuss the techniques used during surgery, and will cover risks, to be sure you understand the surgery and recovery processes.. The consultation is also the best time to discuss costs, including financing options with the patient coordinator. Be sure you have all of your questions answered clearly before ending your consultation.

5. What happens during body lift surgery?

Body lift surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from four to six hours or more to complete. An incision is made which goes completely around the body and can typically be hidden under a swimsuit or underwear. Excess fat and loose skin is removed and the remaining skin is pulled together and closed with several layers of stitches to bring deeper tissues and the skin together. Stitches are under the skin and do not require removal.

Patients remain in a flexed position for approximately six days after surgery. When lying or standing. Movement is encouraged as soon as possible, to help with blood circulation. Drains are placed during the surgery and for the first two days following the procedure, you would be hospitalized and monitored closely.

6. Are there risks involved in body lift surgery?

Body lift surgery, like any surgery, involves some risk. Every precaution is taken to ensure your safety, and Dr. Angelchik will make sure beforehand that you understand both the possible complications that might happen after your surgery, and the inevitable but temporary side-effects that are part of recovery.

Please see our Results page for the Before and After photos of some body lifts.

To schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Angelchik, please contact our Glendale, AZ office. We place a high priority on patient education and all of us in the team will be happy to answer your questions.