A lower body lift is an operation that includes an abdominoplasty but also treats sagging buttocks, hips, and outer thighs. This surgery is designed to remove excess skin, reduce stubborn fat deposits, and reshape the lower torso for a smoother, more toned silhouette. It may be beneficial for patients who have experienced significant weight loss, changes after pregnancy, or the natural effects of aging. At The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Brian Braithwaite and Dr. Lorri Cobbins use advanced techniques to create long-lasting results tailored to each patient’s unique goals.
What Are the Benefits of a Lower Body Lift?
A lower body lift can dramatically enhance body contours by removing excess skin and tightening underlying tissues in the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and hips. This body contouring procedure can be especially advantageous after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, when skin elasticity is reduced. Benefits include:
- Smoother skin
- Improved proportions
- A firmer, more toned appearance
In addition to aesthetic improvements, patients often experience greater comfort, ease in physical activity, and the ability to wear a wider variety of clothing with confidence.
How Is the Lower Body Lift Procedure Performed?
Sometimes called a belt lipectomy or an extended abdominoplasty, this procedure generally requires a circumferential incision to remove a belt-like strip of skin and fat from around the waist. Several position changes are usually required during the operation to dramatically lift the fallen tissues. Back rolls are sometimes addressed as well, depending on their location. The remaining skin is carefully redraped and tightened to create smoother contours, and underlying tissues may be reshaped for a more toned, youthful, and balanced overall appearance.
Dr. Braithwaite and Dr. Cobbins perform lower body lifts under general anesthesia, often as an outpatient procedure.
What Results Can I Expect From a Lower Body Lift?
After a lower body lift, you can typically expect a smoother, firmer, and more contoured appearance in the abdomen, thighs, hips, and buttocks. As excess skin can be removed and the underlying tissues can be tightened, this generally creates a more toned silhouette. Many patients notice improved body proportions, reduced skin irritation from chafing, and greater ease in finding flattering clothing. Results are typically long-lasting when you maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. While some scarring is inevitable, it usually fades over time and, in most cases, is strategically placed to be as discreet as possible leaving you with a more confident, rejuvenated look.
We often instruct body lift patients to wear compression garments even if liposuction was not performed. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.
How Much Does a Lower Body Lift Cost?
The cost of a lower body lift can vary depending on individual needs and goals. Factors that may influence the total cost include:
- Complexity of the procedure and areas treated
- Anesthesia fees
- Operating facility costs
- Post-surgical garments and follow-up care
- Geographic location of the practice
During your consultation, you will receive a personalized quote based on your treatment plan. We also offer flexible financing options to help make procedural payments more manageable for qualified applicants.
For more information about lower body lift surgery or to schedule a consultation at our office, please contact The Aesthetic Institute of Chicago today.