Extreme body changes such as dramatic weight loss, pregnancy, and the aging process can cause loose skin and a change in fatty tissue around the body. These can cause excess skin and loose tissue around the body. Many patients in Michigan, like in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and other neighborhoods, especially after weight loss surgery and dramatic weight loss, have large amounts of sagging skin left on the body. Michigan’s body lift surgery is a tool to improve the tone and shape of various parts of the body. It removes excess skin and some fat, and can be performed on both men and women. This is most commonly performed on the stomach, back, buttocks, or thighs.
A Body Lift Procedure Can Be Done With Liposuction
A body lift can remove some fat deposits, but it is mainly used to remove excess skin. If you are looking for a procedure mainly to remove excess fat, liposuction may be a better option for you. If you are looking for both, body lifts and liposuction can be performed together. If the area of liposuction has poor skin elasticity, the skin will not adhere to the new body contours. A body lift can be used in conjunction with liposuction on areas such as these, to help the skin tighten and fit closer to the body. Hardaway performs both of these services at her AAAASF certified plastic surgery suite. For some patients, depending on their medical history, the surgery is performed in a hospital setting.
Back lifts are often needed in combination with liposuction to give the back a smoother appearance. Often liposuction is performed first to remove the excess fat. If the skin is then unable to shrink sufficiently, a back lift may be needed. The location of the incision depends on the location of the majority of the excess skin. This will be determined at the time of your consultation.
Sometimes back lifts are performed with other body contouring procedures, this is what constitutes a body lift. Various options will be discussed at the time of your consultation and tailored to your specific needs.
The Full Body Lift MI
A full body lift surgery, can remove extra skin and fat from the stomach, back, hips, buttocks, and outer thighs. This is often performed after dramatic weight loss, which can cause loose and sagging skin. A body lift can restore the contours of the body, as well as reshape the body. Body lifts can be combined with other procedures such as an arm lift, thigh lift, breast lift, or face lift. The procedure will vary depending on the specific needs and wants of each patient.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made around the waist, and includes the removal of the excess skin. The skin is pulled, and sewn closed under tension. The time of the surgery depends on the individual needs and wants of each patient. If weight loss is still in progress, the body lift can be performed in stages, to better suit the patient’s needs.
The results of the surgery can be seen almost immediately after the procedure is completed.
Though it may take a few months for the skin to settle fully, and final results to be revealed after surgery. Maintaining a stable weight through good diet and exercise is encouraged after the surgery to keep the outcome stable. Dressings will be applied to the incisions, and a drain main be placed under the skin to drain excess fluid. A compression garment is worn after surgery as well. The specific needs vary from patient to patient.
As an overview, the average recovery time for a procedure is at minimum of 3 weeks.
A body lift is a fairly invasive surgery, and as such, the recovery time will be slightly longer. During this time, and for the following 4-6 weeks, you will be asked to restrict your activity and keep your exercise to a minimum. You will be asked to come to follow-up appointments, to make sure you are healing properly from the surgery. The healing process varies from patient to patient and depends on the expanse of the surgery.
Differences Between A Tummy Tuck and A Body Lift Procedure in Michigan
A lower body lift surgery, also known as a belt lipectomy, focuses on the lower body: the buttocks, hips, inner and outer thighs. It lifts the skin and reshapes the contours of the bottom body. This procedure can be combined with liposuction, and treatments such as a tummy tuck and other body lifts as well. If you are looking to change the contours of the lower body, such as to enhance the buttocks or create a larger one, then a procedure such as a Brazilian butt lift could be what you are looking for. Dr. Hardaway performs this procedure as well.
Mid-Body Lift or Torsoplasty
A mid-body lift is a similar procedure, also known as a torsoplasty. This treats the same areas as a lower body lift, as well as the abdominal areas, namely the stomach and back. It does not cover all the areas of a full body lift like a breast lift, but is good for those who want to see a change in the abdominal area as well as the lower portion of the body.
Dr. Hardaway personalizes the procedure to the patient’s specific case and needs. The cost varies, depending on which areas the surgery is performed. Under Dr. Hardaway’s great hand, payment plans are made available, so be sure to inquire during your consultation. For any financing options please fill out the CareCredit financing application on our website. The procedure is not usually covered by insurance. Occasionally, insurance will cover removal of excess skin on the abdomen after massive weight loss.
The outcome from a body lift will last a lifetime, provided that the recipient has proper diet and exercise to maintain their new shape. Surgery is not a replacement for proper diet and exercise. Losing a few pounds after a body lift should not have a dramatic effect, but an extreme amount of weight loss could cause skin to sag again. This varies from patient to patient, and has to do with the specific skin and needs of each patient. Dr. Hardaway will discuss this for you as you prepare for your surgery.
Arm Lift
As we age, we lose firmness in the skin, giving the appearance of drooping or sagging skin. This can lead to the appearance of “flabby arms”. As well, significant weight loss can create loose skin, and cause the skin on the underside of the arms to sag. This can impact your confidence and comfort levels. A plastic surgery procedure like an arm lift will get rid of loose underarm skin.
Who is a good candidate for an arm lift?
• They do not smoke or drink excessively
• They are fairly physically healthy
• They do not have any medical conditions that can impair or slow the healing process.
• They have realistic goals for surgery.
• Dr. Hardaway will work with patients to determine what will be best to meet their needs.
What is Arm Lift Surgery MI Procedures?
An arm lift, also known as a brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess and sagging skin on the upper arms, between the armpit and elbow. This procedure reduces the circumference of the upper arm by removing and tightening the loose skin. In some cases, liposuction will be recommended to remove the excess fat deposits. Brachioplasty and liposuction treatments can be done together or individually to improve the “Bat Wing” look.
An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia, while the patient is fully asleep. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient will be sent home after surgery. During the procedure, incisions are made on the underside of the arms. The length of the incisions depends on the patient’s needs, and how much skin will need to be removed. The underlying tissues of the arms are then tightened, and any excess skin is removed. Liposuction may also be performed to remove excess fat. The incision will then be closed with stitches, and the arms loosely bandaged. Drains may be placed in the arms to remove excess fluid.
Then your new, shapely ,and toned upper arm will dramatically improved both in appearance and feel.
Patients’ Recovery
During surgery, your incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures. A few nonabsorbable sutures will be removed within one to two weeks following surgery. The smoother, tighter contours that result from brachioplasty are apparent almost immediately following the procedure, although initial results may be somewhat obscured by swelling and bruising.
Compression garments may be recommended to help minimize swelling after surgery. You can return to work when cleared by the doctor. Avoid lifting the arms above the head for 3 to 4 weeks and avoid any activity that may strain the arms for 4 to 8 weeks after surgery .
The procedure will require a scar that can extend from the arm pit to the elbow on the inside of the arm. These scars usually heal well after a period of wearing a compression garment. Various scar treatments may be suggested if you have a history of thick scars. Liposuction will require several very small incisions that can also be minimal once healed.
Results from an arm lift are long lasting. However, factors such as weight gain can affect the appearance of the arms. As well, the skin can lose firmness and sag as aging progresses, but usually not enough to warrant another procedure. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy fitness habits will help your results last longer.
Possible Risks and Complications
The most common risk of an arm lift, like some other implants, is scarring around the surgical incisions. However, the incisions are made in an area that is typically hidden. Infection is a risk with any surgery, as well as excess bleeding. Following Dr. Hardaway’s instructions closely after surgery will help decrease the chance of these risks.
Consultation and Decision Making
The decision to have an arm lift procedure is extremely personal, and you will have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. Dr. Hardaway will address any concerns you may have during your free personalized consultation.
A plastic surgery consultation is vital to discuss your goals and wanted outcome for the surgery. Dr. Hardaway offers in person and virtual consultations.
Prior to the consultation, you will be sent a link to read about the procedure. During the consultation, a history and physical examination of the intended area are taken. After a physical examination, you will be shown before and after photos. Then, photographs are taken, and these photos will be used to illustrate the desired procedure in greater detail. These will be used to show the incision and surgical areas of the procedure. Afterward, the recovery process is discussed.
Brachioplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis at our surgical suite which is fully accredited the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (QUAD A), using the latest equipment available. Make sure to choose a plastic surgeon who is board certified. As well, look for a surgeon experienced in the procedure you are looking for. An arm lift is not covered by insurance, though some surgical treatments can be.
If you have found you are avoiding short sleeves or sleeveless outfits because of your arms, it is now time to contact our office to set up a personalized consultation with Dr. Hardaway for an arm lift surgery. Results from the surgery are lasting and can help boost self confidence. She can confirm if you are a good candidate for this procedure and help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
FAQs
How much do arm lift procedures cost?
The cost of the surgery varies from patient to patient, depending on the needs and wants of each specific patient, and the procedures performed. Dr. Hardaway will help you find a procedure and payment plan that suits your needs.
How is an arm lift performed?
An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia, while the patient is fully asleep. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient will be sent home after surgery. During the procedure, incisions are made on the underside of the arms. The length of the incisions depends on the patient’s needs, and how much skin will need to be removed. The underlying tissues of the arms are then tightened, and any excess skin is removed. Liposuction may also be performed to remove excess fat. The incision will then be closed with stitches, and the arms loosely bandaged. Drains may be placed in the arms to remove excess fluid.
How long is the recovery from an arm lift?
Compression garments may be recommended to help minimize swelling after surgery. You can return to work when cleared by the doctor. Avoid lifting the arms above the head for 3 to 4 weeks, and avoid any activity that may strain the arms for 4 to 8 weeks after surgery.
How long does the outcome from an arm lift last?
Results from an arm lift are long lasting. However, factors such as weight gain can affect the appearance of the arms. As well, the skin can lose firmness and sag as aging progresses, but usually not enough to warrant another procedure. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy fitness habits will help the outcome lasts longer.
What are the risks of an arm lift?
The most common risk of an arm lift is scarring around the surgical incisions. However, the incisions are made in an area that is typically hidden. Infection is a risk with any surgery, as well as excess bleeding. Following the doctor’s instructions closely after surgery will help decrease the chance of these risks.
Thigh Lift
Unfortunately, exercise alone will not tighten the skin. Exercise can contour the muscle but cannot replace the lost elasticity of the skin. A stable weight is important to achieve optimal results. At your evaluation, Dr. Hardaway will discuss the location and type of incision along with risks and complications. This procedure can be performed as an outpatient procedure in an accredited office surgical suite, an ambulatory surgical center or in a hospital setting. This is often determined by your medical history.
Many women have excess skin in the thigh area because of weight gain and loss and skin laxity due to aging. A thigh lift removes the excess skin, tightens up the thighs and allows Dr. Hardaway to provide her patients with shapelier upper legs.Who are good candidates for a thigh lift?
The best candidates are those who:
- Have stable weight
- Are in overall good health
- Regularly exercise
- Have excessive soft inner thigh tissue
- Have realistic goals for their thigh shaping goals
A typical thigh lift procedure can take two and a half to three hours. This depends on the amount of skin that needs to be removed. After massive weight lost, extended excisions are often needed. A thigh lift can be performed as an outpatient procedure in a surgical suite or in a hospital setting with an overnight stay. This is determined by your medical history and if additional procedures, like a reconstruction, are performed with the thigh lift.
A compression garment is worn to help alleviate post operative swelling. After wearing the initial garment that is given at the time of surgery for three weeks a stage two garment is then worn for an additional three weeks. If prolong standing or walking is a typical part of your day, the compression garment is often worn for a longer period of time. There may be minor swelling up to three months post operatively.