Dr. Conway Answers Your Post-Weight Loss Plastic Surgery Questions

Posted on May 14, 2024 | by Donald Conway

If you are considering a body lift after weight loss, congratulations on your progress! After such a process, I understand that looking into a body lift procedure can be both exciting and daunting. Many patients in your shoes have a long list of questions, like “How many post-weight loss plastic surgery procedures can I have at once?” and “Is a body lift procedure really worth it?”

These are personal questions with answers that are unique to you; each requires thoughtful discussion with your board certified plastic surgeon. To help you prepare for your surgical consultation, here are answers to common body lift questions that my patients ask.

• How close to my goal weight do I need to be for a body lift?
• Can I get several body lifting procedures done at one time?
• How many pounds of skin can I get rid of with plastic surgery?
• Is there a BMI requirement for body lift surgery?
• How does body lifting surgery improve life afterwards?
• Are the results of a body lift permanent?

How close to my goal weight do I need to be for a body lift?

Patients who want to undergo a body lift should be at a stable weight; you may be a good candidate if you are at or within 5-10 pounds of a weight you are happy with, and you have maintained this weight successfully for at least 6 months. 

The reason for this is that a body lift does not remove a significant amount of fat, nor is it a weight loss procedure. It is true that a body lift typically removes several pounds worth of excess tissues, but a body lift (or customized combination of lift procedures) is a body contouring procedure that patients undergo after weight loss—it does not remove a significant amount of fat. A 2021 study published in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery does suggest, however, that body contouring surgery after weight loss can help bariatric patients, in particular, maintain a healthy weight long-term.

Can I get several body lifting procedures done at one time?

Yes, you can have several procedures performed at once as part of your post-weight loss surgery. Common procedures included in a post-weight loss plan are arm lift, thigh lift, tummy tuck, lower body lift, and circumferential (360) body lift. Some patients may also require procedures to address loose skin in other parts of the body, such as gynecomastia correction, breast lift, neck lift, or facelift.

Each individual will have to consult with their board certified plastic surgeon to determine the right combination of procedures for them and whether the necessary procedures may be safely performed at once.

How many pounds of skin can I get rid of with plastic surgery?

During body lift surgery, your surgeon will excise a number of pounds worth of removed skin. This varies from person to person, but is usually around 5-10 pounds for patients who have previously lost a significant amount of weight.

Is there a BMI requirement for body lift surgery?

If you have a BMI over 40, it is unlikely that you will be able to safely undergo a body lift; still, there is not a BMI requirement, and you may not be ready for surgery even if you have a BMI within a lower range. In determining if you are a good candidate for the procedure, we take BMI into account along with many other factors relating to your overall health. 

How does body lifting surgery improve life afterwards?

The removal of excess skin and contouring of your figure may improve your lifestyle in a number of ways:

• Helps you feel comfortable in your body during exercise and other activities
• Eliminates skin folds that cause some rashes, skin infections, and chafing
• Helps clothing fit better
• Visibly reveals the results of your weight loss, so you can better show off your new shape

Are the results of a body lift permanent?

The results of a body lift are long-lasting, as long as you do not become pregnant or gain a significant amount of weight. The natural aging process will continue, of course, so you can expect some skin laxity to return over time.

Schedule a post-weight loss body lift consultation in Asheville

As a board certified plastic surgeon, I have helped many patients enjoy their bodies again after losing significant weight through either bariatric surgery or diet and exercise. If you are looking for body contouring after significant weight loss, I am happy to meet with you to evaluate your needs, listen to your goals, and discuss what procedures I believe can help. You may schedule a private consultation by calling my office at (828) 210-9333 or contacting us online.