What is a Total Body Lift?

More extensive than just a tummy tuck, the body lift is performed on the lower torso and upper legs to reshape the abdomen, hips, back, buttocks, and outer thighs. This is a particularly effective procedure for individuals who have loose, sagging skin and uneven contours, as it helps achieve a firmer, more shapely physique. A body lift can achieve dramatic, long-lasting results that provide patients with renewed self-confidence.

Key Benefits of the Total Body Lift

  • Removal of excess, sagging skin
  • Well contoured, improved appearance
  • Overall enhanced look, with tighter skin
  • Boosted self-image and confidence

Candidates for the Total Body Lift

Individuals who have lost a large amount of weight through gastric bypass surgery, intestinal bypass surgery, or change in nutrition or fitness habits may have excess skin on their bodies. If this occurs, a total body lift may be an excellent option to improve overall body contour.

Patients who may be good candidates for a total body lift are those who:

  • Are bothered by significantly loose, flabby, sagging skin in one or multiple areas 
  • Have maintained their weight for at least three months
  • Are non-smokers in overall good health
  • Do not have any medical conditions that might impair healing or increase surgical risks

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    When I went in for my consult with Dr. Hutchinson, I immediately knew she was the right surgeon for me. She walked me through all the procedures I was interested in, but did so in a way that made me excited to work on these areas to get to a happier place with my body ultimately. She was never salesy and she never made me feel like I needed to have these procedures done to be “perfect”. There are a lot of sleazy surgeons out there whose pitch is to make you feel horrible about yourself to get more done. Not Dr. Hutchinson. Her staff is extremely attentive in helping you prepare for surgery, and she was always available if I had questions or concerns before and after surgery. I am still healing, but already can tell what amazing results are coming my way. Look no further if you want an extremely capable and affable surgeon to work with. 

    Cidney F.

    The Total Body Lift Procedure

    The steps of a total body lift procedure will vary depending on the specific needs of each patient. In most cases, however, Dr. Hutchinson will operate on the stomach first, removing excess skin from the navel to the pubic area and then tightening the abdominal wall muscles. The fat and skin from above the navel are pulled down and sutured into place, and the navel is pulled out to its normal position. The procedure continues with the buttocks and thigh areas, with the incisions being made as inconspicuous as possible. In cases that require the removal of fat, liposuction is often involved. The entire body lift procedure takes 3-4 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

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    At our practice, your privacy is respected. Instead of showcasing total body lift results online, Dr. Hutchinson shares before-and-after images privately during your consultation. This ensures your results are viewed in a private, respectful setting, where your journey is treated with care and confidentiality.

    Recovery and Risks

    It’s important for patients who are interested in total body lift surgery to be aware that it is a major surgical procedure that requires significant recovery time. The operation is performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can typically return to work within 1-2 weeks. 

    Patients are encouraged to walk immediately after the procedure, but are cautioned to avoid other activities such as exercising until sufficient healing has occurred. This usually takes 3-6 weeks. 

    As with every surgical procedure, a body lift has risks and potential complications. These include infection, bleeding, fluid accumulation, skin discoloration, and reduced sensation. Dr. Hutchinson will discuss these risks with you, along with the details of your procedure, prior to treatment.

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    Total Body Lift with Dr. Hutchinson

    Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a Fellowship trained, board certified plastic surgeon of the face, breast, and body who cares for patients from Manhattan’s Upper East Side and beyond. She is known for exceeding her patients’ expectations and providing the highest level of care for each. Patients value her trustworthiness, honesty, skill, excellent judgment, knowledge, and experience. Her in-depth expertise and advanced techniques allow her to deliver safe, effective, natural, and long-lasting results with the shortest scars and quickest recovery. If you’re considering a total body lift and you’d like to book a consultation with Dr. Hutchinson, contact us online or call us at (212) 452-1400.

    Total Body Lift Frequently Asked Questions

    Is a total body lift safe for older patients?

    How long does it take to see the final results from a total body lift?

    What are the risks of a total body lift, and how can I minimize them?

    Will I need to wear compression garments after a total body lift?

    Is a total body lift safe for older patients?

    A total body lift can be performed on older patients, provided they are in overall good health. Dr. Hutchinson takes a comprehensive approach to evaluate a patient’s fitness for surgery, and will advise on whether any pre-surgery preparations or health improvements are needed to ensure safety and optimal outcomes.

    How long does it take to see the final results from a total body lift?

    While initial improvements are visible within a few weeks, the final results from a total body lift typically take 6 to 12 months to fully emerge. This is due to the time needed for the skin to settle, and for the body to heal completely. It’s important to be patient and allow your body to adjust after surgery.

    What are the risks of a total body lift, and how can I minimize them?

    As with any major surgery, total body lifts come with risks such as infection, bleeding, or scarring. However, choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Hutchinson minimizes these risks. Following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions and attending all follow-up appointments can help reduce complications and support optimal healing.

    Will I need to wear compression garments after a total body lift?

    Yes, wearing compression garments is typically recommended after a total body lift to support the healing process. These garments help reduce swelling, promote proper circulation, and assist in the contouring of the newly reshaped areas. Dr. Hutchinson will provide specific instructions on how long and when to wear the garments.

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