Body Lift In Farmington Hills
At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center, Dr. Hardaway specializes in all body lift procedures designed for patients who’ve worked hard to reclaim their health and deserve results that reflect their commitment.
Why Choose Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center for Body Lift Surgery
Our state-of-the-art surgical facility maintains accreditation by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (QUAD A), reflecting our unwavering commitment to patient safety protocols that exceed Michigan’s medical standards. Dr. Hardaway approaches every body lift with meticulous customization—analyzing your unique anatomy, weight loss history, and aesthetic goals to design a surgical plan that addresses your specific needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
From your initial consultation through every stage of recovery, our team provides hands-on guidance, detailed aftercare instructions, and accessible support when questions arise. With extensive experience serving post-bariatric and massive weight loss patients across Oakland County, we’ve built a reputation for transformative outcomes that honor the hard work you’ve invested in your health journey.
What is Body Lift Surgery? Details and benefits
A body lift is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from multiple body regions simultaneously—primarily the abdomen, flanks, back, and outer thighs—following massive weight loss or significant body changes. Unlike targeted procedures that address isolated areas, a comprehensive body lift transforms your silhouette through a single circumferential intervention.
The procedure involves making incisions around the waist in a belt-like pattern (belt lipectomy), allowing Dr. Hardaway to excise the skin apron, remove subcutaneous fat via strategic liposuction, and lift underlying tissues. The skin is then redraped over your newly contoured frame and secured with layered sutures, creating smoother, firmer body contours. Depending on your anatomy, the procedure may include components such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), back lift, buttock lift, and outer thigh lift.
Body lift surgery is particularly beneficial for:
- Individuals with compromised core stability due to fascial separation from weight fluctuation
- Post-bariatric patients who have achieved stable weight following gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy
- Massive weight loss (MWL) patients with skin laxity that impairs mobility or causes recurrent infections
Recovery Process: What to Expect After Body Lift Surgery
Recovery from a body lift is a significant part of your surgical journey, and at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center, we guide you through every stage with precision and compassion. Because this is a major procedure, healing involves several phases and typically begins with a period of limited activity lasting at least three weeks.
Immediate Post-Operative Phase (Days 1–7):
You’ll wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and protect surgical areas. Small JP drains will be placed to prevent fluid buildup, and you’ll receive detailed instructions for drain care and emptying. Discomfort, bruising, and restricted movement are common during the first week—most patients require assistance with daily tasks. Dr. Hardaway prescribes pain medication and provides a “no-bend” protocol to protect incisions during the critical healing window.
Early Recovery Phase (Weeks 2–6):
Most patients resume light activity within two to three weeks, though strenuous exercise and heavy lifting remain restricted for at least six weeks. Scheduled follow-up visits with Dr. Hardaway allow us to monitor incision healing, remove drains (typically at 7–14 days), and adjust compression garment protocols. You may be referred to local lymphatic drainage specialists near the Costick Center area to accelerate swelling reduction.
Long-Term Healing (Months 3–12):
While early results are visible once swelling subsides, final contouring outcomes emerge over 6–12 months as tissues settle and scars mature. Scar management therapies—including silicone sheeting, topical treatments, and laser revision—begin at 6 weeks to optimize aesthetic outcomes. Throughout recovery, our team remains available to answer questions, provide reassurance, and ensure your transformation meets your expectations.
Cost and Insurance Coverage for Body Lift Surgery
At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center, we provide transparent, upfront pricing for body lift procedures. Costs vary based on surgical complexity—comprehensive 360-degree body lifts generally involve greater investment than isolated lower body lifts. Factors influencing pricing include:
- Surgical time and complexity (circumferential vs. staged procedures)
- Anesthesia fees (board-certified anesthesiologist)
- Accredited surgical facility fees
- Post-operative garments and drain supplies
- Follow-up care and scar management therapies
During your consultation, Dr. Hardaway will assess your anatomy and create a tailored surgical plan. You’ll receive a detailed quote reflecting your specific procedure—no hidden fees or surprises.
Insurance Considerations:
While body lift surgery is typically considered cosmetic, patients who have experienced massive weight loss may qualify for partial coverage if excess skin causes documented health issues such as:
- Recurrent skin infections (intertrigo)
- Impaired mobility or chronic back pain
- Hygiene challenges due to pannus overhang
Our team can help determine if you qualify for a panniculectomy (the medically necessary component) and assist with pre-authorization paperwork for your Oakland County insurance provider.
Recovery Process: What to Expect After Body Lift Surgery
Recovery from a body lift is a significant part of your surgical journey, and at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way. Because this is a major procedure, the healing process involves several stages and typically begins with a period of limited activity lasting at least three weeks. You’ll be given a compression garment to reduce swelling and protect your surgical areas, along with specific instructions for its use to promote proper healing.
Right after surgery, your incisions will be covered with dressings, and small drains may be placed to help prevent fluid buildup. Discomfort, bruising, and restricted movement are common during the first week, so you’ll likely need help with daily tasks. Dr. Hardaway will prescribe pain medication to keep you as comfortable as possible, and you’ll receive detailed care guidelines for managing your incisions and drainage tubes. Most patients are ready to resume light activity within two to three weeks, though more strenuous activities should be avoided for at least six weeks.
Ongoing care doesn’t stop after surgery. You’ll have scheduled follow-up visits with Dr. Hardaway to check your progress, adjust care instructions, and guide your gradual return to normal activity. While some results are noticeable early on, the full benefits of your body lift will become more apparent over time as swelling decreases and your body adjusts. Throughout the process, our team is available to answer your questions, provide reassurance, and ensure your recovery is as smooth and successful as possible.
Financing Options:
We partner with trusted medical lenders—including CareCredit and Alpheon—who offer flexible payment plans with competitive rates. During your consultation, we’ll walk you through all available financing options, helping you move forward with your transformation at a pace that works for your budget.
Contact Us Today
Ready to transform your body and your life with expert body lift surgery in Michigan? Contact Aesthetic Plastic Surgery & Laser Center today at (248) 221-1957 to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Michelle Hardaway.
Our friendly staff is ready to answer your questions about body lift procedures, candidacy requirements, recovery expectations, and financing options. We understand that taking the first step toward body contouring can feel significant, and we’re here to provide the information and support you need to make confident decisions about your transformation journey.
FAQs
How long do I need to maintain a stable weight before scheduling a body lift?
Most surgeons, including Dr. Hardaway, require 12–18 months of stable weight (within 10–15 pounds of your goal) following bariatric surgery or massive weight loss. This ensures your body has reached metabolic equilibrium and reduces the risk of recurrent skin laxity.
What is the difference between a tummy tuck and a full lower body lift?
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) addresses only the anterior abdomen. A lower body lift is a circumferential procedure that removes excess skin from the abdomen, flanks, back, and outer thighs in a 360-degree approach—providing comprehensive contouring that a tummy tuck cannot achieve.
Will insurance cover any portion of a body lift after weight loss surgery?
Insurance may cover the panniculectomy component (removal of the abdominal apron) if excess skin causes documented medical issues. Cosmetic components—such as buttock lifting, thigh contouring, and liposuction—are typically patient-pay. Our team assists with pre-authorization and documentation.
How are the scars hidden or positioned during a circumferential body lift?
The primary incision is placed along the natural belt line—low enough to be concealed by most undergarments and swimwear. Dr. Hardaway uses meticulous closure techniques and layered suturing to minimize scar visibility, and scar management therapies further improve outcomes over time.
What is the typical recovery timeline for returning to a desk job versus physical labor?
Most patients return to desk work within 2–3 weeks. Physical labor or strenuous activity requires 6–8 weeks of healing to protect incisions and prevent complications such as wound dehiscence or seroma formation.
Can I combine a body lift with other procedures like a breast lift or arm lift?
Yes. Dr. Hardaway frequently stages procedures for safety—performing a lower body lift first, followed by upper body contouring (breast lift, arm lift, back lift) 3–6 months later. This approach minimizes anesthesia time and optimizes healing.
How do you manage pain and mobility in the first week after surgery?
Dr. Hardaway prescribes multimodal pain management (oral medications, muscle relaxants) and provides detailed mobility protocols. Most patients use a recliner or elevated sleeping position to reduce tension on incisions. A “no-bend” rule protects the surgical site during the critical first two weeks.
Schedule Your Consultation
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