What to Expect After a Body Lift

A body lift is a surgery designed to contour your body by removing excess skin, fat, and tissue that remains after weight loss. It entails multiple procedures based on your preferences and needs. Some of them include tummy tuck, lower and upper body lift, liposuction, and arm lift.

 

How the Surgery Works

A body lift entails a series of surgeries that helps remove excess skin from your body for tightening, contouring, and toning. It is planned strategically to ensure proper removal of the excess skin. It reduces the incisions required for the process. 


The surgery takes place under general anesthesia; it will be pain-free, and you will be unconscious throughout the procedure. The surgery duration will depend on the procedure you decide to have. Your specialist will talk to you about your preferences and what they entail during the consultation.

 

Recovery

Ideally, commit to going through the entire recovery process as directed by your surgeon. They will give you instructions during the initial consultation and after the procedure. The recovery period differs from one patient to another, depending on the techniques
used. It also depends on the extent of the surgery and the body's healing ability.

 

First Week After Body Lift Procedure

Your specialist will wrap the incision sites using bandages after the body lift surgery. You are likely to return home on the same day of the procedure. They will put drain tubes in the incision sites under the skin. The medical staff will guide you on how you will empty the drain. They will also give you instructions about measuring the drained fluid until your first appointment after your surgery.


You are likely to experience soreness and pain in the incision sites during the first week post-surgery. Your specialist may prescribe antibiotics and pain medication in the first week. You will notice the bruising rapidly subside. However, the swelling may last longer than the first week after the surgery. Rest during this time. Do light activities and go for short walks to ensure a proper blood flow in the incision sites.
 

First Month After Body Lift Procedure

Most patients get back to their usual routine two weeks post-surgery. However, the appropriate time to resume your daily activities varies depending on the extent of the surgery. Your surgeon will ask you to refrain from engaging in strenuous activities and exercises for three to four weeks.


You will need to refrain from taking certain blood-thinning medications and smoking during your recovery period. Prepare to wear compression garments throughout this period to promote faster healing and your skin firming up.

 

Long Term Recovery

Expect to have an improved body contour after your body lift surgery for a long time if your recovery is successful. However, it is essential to note that the surgery is not a substitute for regular exercise or a balanced nutritious diet.


Your body lift results will need maintenance as major weight instabilities can affect them. It is also ideal to note that planning for near-term pregnancy can affect your results.

 

Follow-up Appointments

It is vital to go for follow-up appointments with your surgeon diligently. If you notice any abnormalities during your recovery, call your surgeon.


For more about a body lift, call Gupta Plastic Surgery at (858) 408-6100 to reach our office in San Diego or Encinitas, California.