Body lift in London (belt lipectomy)

Who it may help

A body lift may be considered if, after significant weight loss, you have loose, overhanging skin around the abdomen, hips, flanks and lower back that a standard abdominoplasty cannot fully treat. Weight loss may have come through diet and exercise, bariatric surgery or weight-loss medication.

It is best done once your weight has been stable for 6–12 months.

What surgery involves

The scar runs all the way around the lower trunk, low enough to be hidden by most underwear. Excess skin and fat are removed from the front, sides and back. The abdominal muscles can be repaired and the buttocks and outer thighs lifted at the same time.

During surgery you are carefully repositioned to treat the front and back of the body. The operation usually takes 4–7 hours under general anaesthetic, and longer if liposuction or other procedures are added. A hospital stay of up to three days is usual.

Progressive tension sutures are used where possible. Drains are usually placed in the back and flanks, where these sutures are less suitable, and are removed once fluid has reduced.

The body lift is done in one stage, but smaller revision procedures are sometimes needed later.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

You will be asked about your weight history, any weight-loss treatment, smoking and general health.

If you take weight-loss medication, weekly injections usually need to be paused 2–4 weeks before surgery and daily tablets 1–2 days before, to reduce anaesthetic risk.

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• a collection of fluid (seroma), which is the most common complication, because a large area of tissue is lifted

• bleeding, infection and delayed wound healing, particularly where the scars meet

• scarring, which may be thick or noticeable

• numbness of the skin around the scar

• asymmetry or contour irregularities

• blood clots in the legs or lungs. This is a risk with any operation under general anaesthetic, and the risk is higher with longer operations such as a body lift.

• the possible need for revision surgery

A compression garment is worn for about six weeks. Most people return to desk work after 2–4 weeks and to strenuous exercise after 6–8 weeks.

Surgery aims to remove excess skin and improve body contour, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and body contouring surgery take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an abdominoplasty and a body lift?

An abdominoplasty treats the front of the abdomen. A body lift extends all the way around the trunk to treat the flanks, hips and back as well.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

Is a body lift available on the NHS?

NHS funding is very limited and depends on local criteria. Surgery is usually self-funded.

Do you treat patients under 18?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over.

When will I see the result?

Swelling settles over several weeks. The final contour is usually seen after 3–6 months, and sometimes up to a year.

Will I need drains?

Usually yes, mainly in the back. They are removed once fluid has reduced.

Can a body lift be combined with other procedures?

Sometimes. Arm, thigh or breast surgery is usually planned as a separate stage.

To discuss a body lift, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options