The area of tissue removal for the lower body lift includes the lower abdomen from the pubic area to the belly button and along the flanks and thighs. The width and location for skin removal is adjusted according to each patient’s body shape. Those with excess outer thigh and buttock tissue will have a wide-area skin removal in those areas. Patients with skin excess at that flanks and lower back will have the skin removal directed at those areas. /p>
The best outcomes from contouring surgery are achieved when these important criteria are met:
Weight
To aid in your recover and for the best results, body contouring should not be done for approximately 2 years following the start of any massive weight loss program and your weight should be stable for at least a year with no future weight loss expected.
Health
People with good health overall are good candidates for body-contouring surgery. If you have chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, you may not be a good candidate.
Patients should see their primary care physician before proceeding with this surgery. In the weeks prior to surgery, maintain the best of health and hygiene. A lingering cold, virus, or other illness can result in your surgery being rescheduled.
Make certain to address any illness immediately, and advise our office of any serious illness or change in your health.
With a lower body lift the skin of the flanks, upper/outer thighs and upper buttocks is removed. This creates tapering of the waistline and elevation of the outer thigh and buttocks. In patients with flat buttocks, the buttocks can be augmented with the patient’s own upper buttocks fatty tissue.
Nutrition
A healthy diet is very important. Diet problems and deficiencies can interfere with healing after surgery. Eat well during the weeks prior to surgery.
Crash dieting, over-eating or high alcohol intake can greatly affect your overall health and well-being. A healthy, balanced diet is essential.
Smoking
Smoking can greatly impair your ability to heal. You must be nicotine free for 8 weeks prior to surgery. You must also be free of any nicotine patch or nicotine-based products beginning the evening before surgery.
Fitness
You do not need to engage in an aggressive or new fitness routine; however practicing good fitness habits is an important factor in your overall health and well being. Stretching exercises and low weight strength training now, can help enhance your posture and strength in the weeks following surgery.
Mental Health
Stress and anxiety over life’s daily events, and even your planned surgery can affect you. While some anxiety is common, any serious stress, or distress over the thought of surgery is something you must discuss with our office. We are here to support you and answer all of your questions. We want your decision to be one of confidence.