Total Body Conturing
Total Body Lift - A Complete Body Transformation
The talent, skill and expertise offered at Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Texas offers patients a total body transformation in the form of a total body lift. The aging process combined with sun damage, pregnancy and fluctuations in weight, as well as genetic influence, may contribute to poor tissue elasticity. This can result in sagging of the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, groin and loose upper arms. (Loose upper arm skin is described in the brachioplasty section).
Patients whose goal is a firmer, younger-looking body contour may benefit from a total body lift. Depending on the degree of correction desired, as well as the patient's goals and the recommendations given, a variety of options are available in terms of specific body regions to be addressed. The procedure reduces excess fat and skin; the result is smoother skin and contours.
Body lifting is not meant to simply remove excess fat; liposuction is the procedure to accommodate this need. Instead, body contouring utilizes liposuction and lifting techniques in cases where skin and tissue elasticity is poor. The best candidates for body lifting are those who are at a stable weight that is in proportion to their height and body habitus. Also, women who may be planning future pregnancies should not consider this, or any abdominal tightening procedure, as pregnancy may interfere with results.
The Surgery
Depending on the areas to be treated, various incision patterns can be employed. Liposuction is usually performed first. Then the typical complete lower body lift uses incisions along the lines similar to a bikini bottom or panty line pattern. Circumferential incisions are performed around the body to remove an apron of excess skin and fat. The remaining skin and tissues are then lifted. Deep support sutures within the underlying tissues are utilized to maintain the newly shaped contours. A combination of sutures, skin clips and adhesives will be used to close the skin. Compressive garments will be applied to aid in the healing process.
A procedure of this extent will require two to three weeks before the patient may feel ready to return to normal daily activities. Initially, there will be swelling at the incision sites with associated discomfort; however, this will be controlled with medication. Patients should avoid bending, straining or lifting for several days as the incision sites will be tight.
The Risks
A procedure of this extent will require two to three weeks before the patient may feel ready to return to normal daily activities. Initially, there will be swelling at the incision sites with associated discomfort; however, this will be controlled with medication. Patients should avoid bending, straining or lifting for several days as the incision sites will be tight.
Our plastic surgeons will assess your particular areas of concern and discuss the various options, including tummy tuck surgery, for you during your personal consultation.
