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What is a Body Lift?

A body lift is a procedure that improves the shape and tone of the abdomen and flanks to remove excess fat and skin through what is essentially a 360-degree tummy tuck and liposuction.

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The 360 Degree Tummy Tuck

The 360-degree tummy tuck, or circumferential abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the entire abdomen circumference. This procedure is typically performed on patients who have lost significant weight or have undergone bariatric surgery and are left with excess skin and fat that cannot be addressed through diet and exercise alone.

During a 360-degree tummy tuck in Tampa, Dr. Buchanan makes an incision that runs around the entire circumference of the abdomen, from hip to hip. This allows him to remove excess skin and fat from the whole midsection, including the lower back and flanks. Patients should be prepared for a longer recovery than a traditional tummy tuck, as the procedure is more extensive.
Proper care and attention allow patients to achieve a more confident and comfortable body shape after undergoing a 360-degree tummy tuck.

Is a Body Lift Right for Me?

You may be a good candidate for a Body Lift if:

  • Weight fluctuation has left you with significant skin laxity resulting in enough excess skin to lift, remove, and/or tighten.
  • Your weight has been stable for a minimum of six months. Once you’ve reached a consistent weight, this will give the surgeon a general idea of how much excess skin needs to be removed or tightened.
  • You are in good health overall and don’t smoke. The procedures that are involved in a full body lift tend to be complex, and complications can occur. If you suffer from a chronic medical condition, it’s best to speak to your primary care physician to see if this procedure is right for you. If you smoke, most plastic surgeons will ask that you stop smoking entirely, or stop smoking six weeks prior to your procedure, as well as six weeks post-operation.

If you believe you are a good candidate for a Body Lift based on the qualifications outlined above, we suggest you schedule a consultation with Dr. Buchanan to discuss the possibility of a Body Lift and the added benefits it could bring to your life.

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Preparing For Your Body Lift

Before undergoing a body lift, preparing yourself mentally and physically is essential.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the most critical steps in preparing for a body lift. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. It is also important to follow Dr. Buchanan’s instructions regarding any medications or supplements you may be taking, as some of these may need to be discontinued before the procedure.

Another important aspect of preparing for a body lift is to have realistic expectations. While this procedure can help improve your body's overall appearance, it is not a solution for weight loss. It is essential to understand that the procedure results may take several months to develop fully and that there may be some discomfort and swelling during recovery.

Following our instructions and preparing yourself mentally and physically can help ensure a successful outcome from your body lift procedure.

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Body Lift Details, Duration, and Post-Operative Care

It is important to note that a Body Lift in Tampa will be different from patient to patient. Some procedures may be more complex than others, depending on the area that is being lifted or tightened. The surgery typically takes between four to six hours, and general anesthesia is used. While you’re asleep, Dr. Buchanan surgically excises the excess skin and fat and shapes the remaining skin to contour the shape of your body. In some cases, he may use liposuction to break up and remove some of the excess fat. When you’re ready to go home, we will show you how to utilize compression garments to help prevent excessive swelling and provide protection for your incisions. We will prescribe pain medication to help provide comfort and ensure you’re not in pain while you recover at home.

Body Lift Before & After

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What is the Recovery for a Body Lift?

Downtime is hard to predict as each patient’s procedure can vary greatly. Some patients may require an overnight stay in the hospital or surgery center. Typically, we ask that patients plan to take anywhere from 2-4 weeks off from work, and recommend avoiding strenuous activity for two to three months following surgery. Moderate activity can usually be resumed about 6 weeks post-surgery, however, swelling may occur for up to six months. Scarring can take up to a year to completely heal.

How Much Does a Body Lift Cost? Prices starting at $20,000

The cost of a body lift in Tampa can vary based on the complexity of your case, and health insurance companies do not cover this surgery because it is considered a cosmetic enhancement procedure. Several factors can affect the cost, including the surgeon's experience and overall reputation.

For example, surgeons with many years of experience or a high reputation may charge more. The surgeon's techniques for the procedure and the complexity of the case can also affect the cost. Additionally, the cost may vary based on the location of your surgeon's practice, as larger cities typically have higher operational costs. The total cost of the procedure may include:

  • Anesthesia fees
  • Operating room costs
  • Compression garments for post-surgery
  • Surgeon fees

Other miscellaneous fees that are not included in the cost may include:

  • Blood tests
  • Other pre-operative testing
  • Medical clearance exams
  • Prescription medications

If you are interested in a body lift but have financial concerns, you can discuss financing options with Dr. Buchanan or one of the VIVIFY staff members. We are committed to working with each patient by offering financing plans to help you achieve your surgical goals.

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Finding the Right Plastic Surgeon

When searching for a suitable plastic surgeon, it is crucial to consider those who hold board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Board-certified surgeons undergo a minimum of 6-8 years of comprehensive training after medical school, ensuring their expertise in both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.

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