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Major weight loss is an accomplishment worth celebrating. However, many patients are left with sagging, excessive skin in areas including the upper thighs and buttocks. This can be a new source of self-consciousness or lead to issues like chafing and discomfort. When this occurs, a lower body lift can help. At Birmingham Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Rouchdi Rifai helps patients achieve the slimmer and smoother silhouette they have worked hard for through lower body lift surgery.
What is a Lower Body Lift?
A lower body lift is a body contouring procedure designed to reduce excess skin and fat in the buttocks and upper thighs. This is especially beneficial for patients who have undergone significant weight loss and are left with loose skin. However, it can also be an option for patients who notice sagging in the area due to aging or other effects. In a lower body lift, the excess tissues are removed and the deep tissues of the buttocks and thighs are repositioned for a youthful and flattering body contour.
How is a Lower Body Lift Performed?
A lower body lift is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Rifai will first make a V-shaped incision in the lower back. Through this incision, excess skin is removed and the deeper tissues are repositioned and anchored to a higher position for the desired lifted look. As needed, excess fat deposits can also be removed using liposuction. Once these steps are complete, the incisions are closed using sutures.
Who is a Candidate for a Lower Body Lift?
Most patients who have excess loose skin in the buttocks or thighs make good candidates for a lower body lift. Patients should be at a healthy and stable weight before choosing the procedure. Prior to undergoing surgery, Dr. Rifai will review your health history to ensure that you are a safe candidate. You should avoid smoking and taking certain medications, such as blood-thinning or anti-inflammatory drugs, before undergoing surgery.
In some cases, Dr. Rifai may recommend an alternative procedure to meet your goal results. These can include:
- Liposuction
- Buttock lift
- Mommy makeover
During a consultation, Dr. Rifai will review all of your options to determine an appropriate surgical plan for your unique needs.
Meet Dr. Rifai
Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon
A talented, board-certified cosmetic surgeon with more than forty years of experience, Dr. Rifai uses only the finest equipment in our clean, state-of-the-art facility. Dr. Rifai knows that taking time to listen and learn about your expectations is essential to giving you the results you want. He will answer your questions and explain the treatment options in detail. Dr. Rifai is devoted to improving the way you look, the way you perceive yourself, and the way others see you.
Meet Dr. RifaiRecovery After a Lower Body Lift
A lower body lift is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day with someone to drive you and care for you. Immediately after the surgery, patients can expect some pain as well as swelling, redness, and potential bruising. Compressive garments should be worn as instructed to reduce swelling and encourage proper healing. Dr. Rifai will provide specific instructions regarding pain management.
Most patients require at least a week of downtime before returning to non-strenuous routines. A majority of healing should be complete within three to four weeks, after which strenuous activity such as exercise can be resumed. Dr. Rifai will monitor your healing through postoperative appointments.
What Our Patients Say
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about lower body lift surgery, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rouchdi Rifai. Call Birmingham Cosmetic Surgery at (248) 723-9370 or contact us online.