Lower Body Lift/Belt Lipectomy
A lower body lift is a medical procedure, a specialized type of tummy tuck. It an extension of the high lateral tension tummy tuck concept developed by the late Dr. Lockwood. He basically re-invented the tummy tuck by re-defining the nature of suspension of the deeper tissues of the abdomen and flank. The lower body lift extends the tummy tuck incision completely around the lower torso. This allows re-suspension of the upper thighs along with the traditional tummy tuck improvements.
The operation is extensive and is known for wound healing complications. Some surgeons, including Dr. Nyte, have on occasion divided the operation into smaller portions to help limit these complications. Furthermore, the concept has been expanded upon to include additional lifts such as those of the inner thigh (medial thigh lift). The traditional lower body lift targeted the upper thighs as well as the buttocks and abdomen. A similiar procedure known as a Belt Lipectomy may be the procedure of choice for some weight loss patients. For the large volume weight loss patient, this operation is ideal to remove the redundant skin that frequently "hangs" around the torso.
Lower body lifting and Belt Lipectomy typically require 6-8 hours operating time when done "all at once". Close post-operative supervision is advised.
Smoking cessation and avoiding all vitamins, aspirin products, and ibuprofen at least 2 weeks prior to surgery is imperative.
In general, the procedure is outpatient and performed in the Hospital. Occasionally an over night stay in the hospital is necessary. One can expect to take off work at least 2-3 weeks and sometimes longer. A pre-op medical clearance is sometimes required depending on patients current medical status, age, smoking history and other factors. Safety is first and foremost.
Please call our office at 425-413-6517 for a free lower body lift or belt lipectomy consultation. We are happy to serve Maple Valley, Covington, Kent, Auburn, Bellevue, Issaquah, Snoqualmie, Federal Way, Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia and many more cities inside and outside of Washington.
