Plastic surgery, particular body lift, plays an important role in helping previously obese patients live a more normal life. In this procedure, surgeons remove the “redundant” skin which commonly occurs around the midsection—particularly the abdomen—,upper arms, back or “bra-line” for women, and thighs.
The skin and tissue laxity also results to sagging breasts and deflated-looking buttocks.
Because of the extreme disfigurement experienced by previously obese patients (they either lost weight through bariatric surgery or natural methods), body lift is seen not as a mere cosmetic procedure but as an important surgery that can make the body appear as normal as possible.
In fact, many insurance companies consider some forms of body lift as a reconstructive surgery and cover some of the surgical costs. By contrast, they do not provide coverage for any cosmetic surgery which is elective in nature.
To be considered a reconstructive surgery, a body lift should be performed not just to correct or at least improve the appearance of the disfigured body; but primarily, it should be used to address skin irritation, foul odor and poor hygiene caused by the trapped sweat, and chronic back pain because of the extra weight of the hanging skin.
Tummy tuck and lower body lift, if performed to MWL patients who are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, are generally covered by health insurance. But unfortunately, other forms of body lift, particularly those targeting the upper arms, breasts, thighs, and buttocks are usually not included in the coverage.
Even when multiple body lift procedures are performed, about 5 to 15 percent of MWL patients will need postoperative revisions, although most of these are minor “touch-ups” to correct residual deformities and other complications. It is important to note that complication rates are not equivalent to failure rates.
Despite the risk of scarring and the need for postoperative revisions (in some cases), majority of MWL patients are satisfied with the result; in fact, several studies have found that most people who had body lift enjoyed better performance in physical exercise, professional and sexual integration, sexual life, and behavioral improvements.
The good thing about having body lift after major weight loss is the result can last a lifetime—as long as the patients will maintain a normal weight through proper diet and regular exercise.
Because food has been a source of comfort for previously obese people at some point in their lives, some plastic surgeons work closely with psychologists or behaviorists to help patients stick to a healthy lifestyle and maintain the result of body lift.
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