Massive weight loss is a tremendous achievement, but it often leaves behind excess, sagging skin that no amount of exercise can address. A body lift is a comprehensive surgical solution designed to remove this excess skin and reshape your body contours, allowing you to fully enjoy your weight loss success.
A body lift (also called belt lipectomy or circumferential body lift) is an extensive procedure that addresses loose, hanging skin around the entire midsection—including abdomen, waist, hips, back, and buttocks in a single comprehensive surgery. The result is a dramatic improvement in body contour and a more proportionate, toned appearance.
For patients who have lost significant weight—whether through bariatric surgery, diet, or exercise—a body lift can be life-changing. It removes the physical and emotional burden of excess skin, improves hygiene, reduces irritation, and allows you to wear the clothes you've earned through your hard work.
You may be a good candidate for a body lift if you:
• Have achieved significant weight loss (typically 50+ pounds or 50% of body weight)
• Have maintained a stable weight for at least 6–12 months
• Have excess, sagging skin around your abdomen, back, hips, and buttocks
• Are in good physical health without conditions that impair healing
• Do not smoke or are willing to quit before surgery
• Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
• Are committed to maintaining your weight loss
It's crucial to reach and maintain your goal weight before surgery, as significant weight fluctuations afterward can affect your results.
During your consultation, we'll discuss your goals and create a comprehensive surgical plan.
• Areas of excess skin and your contour goals
• Weight loss history and stability
• Whether procedures should be staged
A physical exam and photographs help guide your personalized approach.
Depending on your specific needs, your procedure may include:
A body lift is typically performed under general anesthesia and is an extensive procedure.
General anesthesia ensures your comfort during this extensive procedure, which typically takes 4–6 hours.
A circumferential incision is made around the waistline, removing excess skin and fat from abdomen, flanks, hips, back, and outer thighs.
The remaining skin is lifted and tightened, and abdominal muscles may be repaired. The incision is strategically placed to be concealed by underwear.
Liposuction may be used to enhance contours and refine the final result.
Body lift recovery is significant but manageable with proper support. Most patients experience:
• Overnight stay for observation initially
• Drains temporarily placed for fluid management
• Compression garments worn for several weeks
• Return to desk work in 3–4 weeks
• Resume exercise in 6–8 weeks
• Final results emerge over several months as swelling resolves
While recovery requires patience, the dramatic transformation in your body contour makes it worthwhile.
Use our Treatment Planner to explore options and estimate your personalized treatment timeline.
Start Planning →Your body lift results will be immediately visible, with final results emerging over months. Most patients experience:
✔ Dramatic improvement in body contour
✔ Removal of excess, sagging skin
✔ More comfort in your skin
✔ Ability to fully enjoy your weight loss achievement
✔ Improved hygiene and reduced skin irritation
✔ Better fit in clothing
With proper care and weight maintenance, your results can be long-lasting. While you'll have scars, they're strategically placed to be concealed by clothing.
View real results from Body Lift procedures performed by Dr. Justin West.
Gallery cases coming soon.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Justin West to discuss your body lift goals.
230 S Main Street, Suite 210, Orange, CA 92868