BODY LIFT
The “Body Lift” is a combination of contouring operations designed for the post bariatric surgery (“gastric bypass“) patient whose considerable weight loss has left them with large amounts of excess skin. The different tightening operations include neck lift, breast lift (male and female), tummy tuck, arm lift, thigh lift, buttock lift, and sometimes tightening of the flanks. A common combination procedure is called the “Belt Lipectomy.” This is an extended abdominoplasty where extra skin and fat is removed from the back and flanks, and the buttocks are lifted.
The Body Lift changes can be the most dramatic we see in plastic surgery. Even though some of these procedures leave noticeable scars, patients are extremely happy with the results. The operations are mixed and matched depending on the patients needs and preferences. Multiple procedures can be done in a single sitting. Except for the neck lift and arm lift, most require general anesthesia. Recovery is fairly comfortable.
More Details
By convention we call this procedure a “Facelift,” even though a great improvement is seen in the neck. Dr. McClure utilizes numerous techniques and approaches to achieve the desired result based upon the patient’s specific facial anatomy and the amount of skin laxity.
Every patient is different so every operation is a “custom” operation. The ideal facelift, as he performs it, achieves a “refreshed” younger appearance that is natural looking; avoiding the overly tight caught-in-the-wind-tunnel look.
Depending on genetics and environmental factors such as sunlight exposure and nicotine, facial aging can begin in our 30’s, though typically it is first noted in the 40’s or early 50’s. Many younger patients are bothered by signs of aging but have not progressed enough to require a traditional facelift. These patients are often candidates for the Lite-Lift. Many Facelift patients are candidates for complementary or adjunct procedures which can enhance the results. The most common complementary procedures are blepharoplasties, Brow Lift, Chemical Peels (TCA), and BOTOX® Cosmetic or dermal filler injections such as JUVÉDERM® XC.
These operations are done as an outpatient in our nationally certified surgery center usually under local anesthesia with sedation.