Losing a significant amount of weight is a life-changing achievement, but it often leaves behind loose skin and tissue that no amount of diet or exercise can correct. At Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery, Dr. Paul Chasan, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder, specializes in completing this transformation with body lift surgery. This procedure refines your shape, restores comfort, and helps your results reflect the hard work you’ve already invested in your health. Here’s what to know if you are considering this next step.
What Is a Body Lift?
A body lift, or lipectomy, is a comprehensive procedure that removes excess skin and fat while tightening underlying tissue. Unlike a tummy tuck, which focuses only on the abdomen, a body lift addresses multiple areas at once—including the abdomen, thighs, flanks, and buttocks. For patients who have undergone massive weight loss, this procedure restores smoother contours and improves overall comfort.
Why It Matters After Weight Loss
While weight loss improves health and mobility, stretched skin often does not retract fully. Excess skin can cause irritation, limit clothing options, and impact confidence. In some cases, it can trap moisture and lead to rashes or infections. A body lift corrects these issues by removing and tightening excess tissue, creating a balanced, natural contour.
Benefits of a Body Lift
- Restored contours: Eliminates excess skin and fat for a smoother, proportionate silhouette.
- Improved comfort: Reduces chafing, irritation, and risk of skin infections caused by folds.
- Enhanced confidence: Helps patients feel more comfortable and secure in their appearance.
- Long-term results: With stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, improvements can last for many years.
Determining if a Body Lift Is Right for You
You may be a good candidate for a post-bariatric body lift if you:
- Have achieved significant weight loss and are left with excess skin
- Are in good overall health and do not smoke
- Understand the recovery process and have realistic expectations
- Are committed to maintaining a stable, healthy lifestyle
Healing After a Body Lift
Most patients require 2–4 weeks off from work, with strenuous activity restricted for at least six weeks. Full healing, including scar maturation and swelling reduction, takes several months. Pain and swelling are expected, but detailed recovery instructions, compression therapy, and close monitoring help ensure a smooth process. As healing progresses, results become more visible: a firmer, more proportionate body that highlights your weight-loss success.
What to Know About Surgical Risks
As with any surgery, a body lift carries some risks. These may include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, fluid accumulation (seroma), blood clots, and anesthesia-related complications. Choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Chasan and following all postoperative instructions significantly reduces these risks.
Begin Your Body Lift Journey
If you’ve achieved massive weight loss and are ready for the final step in your transformation, a body lift may be the solution. Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Chasan, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Ranch & Coast Plastic Surgery, to explore a personalized surgical plan. With our Quad A-certified facility and dedicated care team, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your safety and results are our highest priorities.
