Last fact-checked: 14 September 2020

Body lift surgery is a major undertaking, but if you are unhappy with loose skin and lack of tone (particularly after weight loss) and want to take action, this is an effective way of surgically improving your shape. 

The procedure generally requires weeks of downtime for a full recovery. With this in mind, it can still be a suitable procedure to undergo abroad as wouldn't you would not be going to work or dealing with everyday tasks anyway. Instead, you can peacefully recover in the comfort of your hotel in your chosen destination after having saved thousands on the price of the procedure. 

Learn more about having body lift surgery abroad and find quality-checked clinics listed with Medical Departures.  

What Is a Body Lift?

Aging, weight loss, pregnancy, sun damage, and even genetics may all play a part in reducing skin elasticity which leads to dimpled and sagging skin, which for some people, no amount of exercise will shift.

A body lift is performed to improve the shape and tone of specific areas by removing excess fat and loose skin, which also helps to minimize cellulite and ‘orange peel’ skin on certain parts of the body.

Generally, it involves a combination of procedures tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient, and so no two procedures are the same. For instance, the procedure can include a tummy tuck, thigh lift and butt lift—but you may have particular problem areas that you want your surgeon to target, such as your abdomen or thighs. 

If you are generally in good health, a body lift may be suitable if you have problems in these areas:

• Abdomen (including the sides and into the lower back)
• Buttocks
• Groin
• Thigh

A body lift is not suitable for removing fat, where liposuction may be the better option. Some people may be recommended a combination of both.

You will have a detailed consultation with your surgeon to discuss how your expectations can be met, and what areas, in particular, you find problematic. Your surgeon will advise on how these problems can be tackled and the areas to be addressed during the surgery.

On the day of the surgery, you will be administered a general anesthetic, and long incisions will be made to remove the underlying excess fat and loose skin. Usually, the incisions will be made in areas that can be hidden under clothes, such as bikini bottoms. Once the excess fat and skin are removed, the incisions will be stitched closed and may have temporary drainage tubes inserted into the scars to help remove the fluid.

On average, the surgery usually takes between four and five hours, although this will vary depending on the areas being treated. 

What Is the Recovery Time for a Body Lift Procedure?

A body lift is major surgery, and you will feel stiff and tender for a number of weeks afterward. The drainage tubes may be in situ for a number of weeks and these will be uncomfortable when moving around.

It is likely you will need around a month off strenuous work, engaging only in light activities for at least six weeks. Strenuous activities should not be undertaken for several months.

As to when you will be able to fly home, always consult your surgeon before booking that flight (our Customer Care Team can help you communicate with your chosen surgeon abroad who will be able to give you an estimate). For surgery like this, it is recommended that you wait 7-10 days before flying depending on how extensive your surgery and the flight time. 

While there are many great overseas clinics overseas that cater to international patients, it is always wise to do your homework before booking. 

This process is made easier with Medical Departures. We ensure that all of our clients travel to quality-checked clinics with qualified and regulated medical staff, with the appropriate clinical expertise. We also carry out clinic visits to monitor standards in hygiene and safety, equipment and materials. Finally, authenticated patient reviews, taken in conjunction with the other steps we undertake to verify reliability, and provide an additional source of information.

Find a reliable surgeon from our global list of verified body lift clinics and hospitals here. 

Prices vary, depending on which country you go to, but you can usually make savings between 50-70% in most cases, and sometimes even more. For instance:

• Body lifts in Mexico cost around $8,000
• Body Lifts in Thailand cost an average of $4,300

Browse through our listings and schedule a free appointment directly through our site. It's also free to get in touch with our Customer Care Team who can provide you with a personalized quote for your body lift surgery at your clinic of choice. Or if you are ready to book your appointment, you can do so right here any time of the day or night, at no charge to you.

Sources:

Body Lift. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Website accessed: 14 September 2020. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/body-lift

Deem, Megan. Body Lift: What You Should Know. Real Self. 5 September 2019. https://www.realself.com/body-lift