Lipectomy (Body Lift)

what is a body lift ...

A Body Lift, also referred to as a lipectomy, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and reshapes underlying tissue to improve overall body contour. It is most commonly considered by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or age-related changes, where the skin has not fully retracted.

In many cases, the term “body lift” refers to a lower body lift, also known as a circumferential abdominoplasty or belt lipectomy. This approach targets excess skin and tissue around the abdomen, lower back, hips, buttocks, and outer thighs.

A Body Lift is not intended as a weight-loss procedure. It is performed to address excess skin and contour concerns, with outcomes varying between individuals.

types of body lifts ...

The most appropriate approach will depend on your anatomy, goals, and overall health. Your surgeon will advise whether a single procedure or a staged plan is recommended. Common approaches include:

Lower body lift (circumferential abdominoplasty/belt lipectomy)

  • Focuses on the lower body using an incision that extends around the torso
  • Aims to address excess skin and tissue across the abdomen, flanks, lower back, buttocks, and outer thighs
  • May assist in reshaping the waistline from front to back

Upper body lift (upper torsoplasty / bra-line lift)

  • Targets excess skin and tissue in the upper back and torso, often around the bra-line region
  • May be considered following significant weight loss when there is noticeable upper back skin laxity

Staged body contouring

  • Involves performing procedures in stages rather than in a single operation
  • May be recommended when multiple areas require treatment
  • Can assist in managing surgical time, recovery, and overall safety

am I a suitable candidate ...

A comprehensive assessment is required to determine suitability for a Body Lift. In some cases, a staged approach may be recommended, particularly where additional procedures such as abdominal muscle repair are being considered.

You may be considered a suitable candidate if you:

  • Have excess skin that has not improved with lifestyle measures
  • Have maintained a stable weight for a period of time (typically at least six months)
  • Are medically suitable to undergo surgery and anaesthesia
  • Do not smoke, or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery as advised
  • Have realistic expectations, including an understanding that scarring is part of the procedure
  • Experience concerns such as chafing, irritation, hygiene challenges, mobility discomfort, or persistent skin folds

Your journey begins with a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon. This includes an assessment of skin laxity, scar placement, abdominal wall (muscle) considerations, and the areas most likely to benefit from surgery. Your surgeon will discuss likely outcomes, limitations, recovery expectations, and risks so you can make an informed decision.

A lower body lift (circumferential abdominoplasty) is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital. Incisions are planned low so they can often be covered by underwear or swimwear. Excess skin and tissue are removed, and the remaining tissue is repositioned to reshape the lower torso and improve contour around the waistline. The exact plan varies depending on your anatomy and whether additional steps, such as abdominal muscle repair, are required.

Yes, you will require a GP referral. As of 1 July 2023, AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) requires all patients to obtain a referral from a GP (General Practitioner).

Many patients with desk-based work plan around 2 to 3 weeks before returning, while physically demanding roles often require longer. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are commonly avoided for around 6 to 8 weeks, depending on healing and your surgeon’s guidance. Recovery varies depending on the extent of surgery and whether your procedure is staged.

Common recovery expectations include:

  • Swelling, bruising and tightness for the first few weeks
  • Compression garments are advised to support healing and swelling control
  • Early gentle walking to support circulation
  • A gradual return to normal movement as comfort improves and wounds heal

As with all surgical procedures, a Lipectomy carries potential risks and complications. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks and complications during your consultation as part of the informed consent process. Visit our Risks and Complications page for more information. Risks and complications can include, but are not limited to:

  • Infection, bleeding, fluid collection (seroma), or wound healing issues
  • Wound separation and scarring concerns, including wider scars in some patients
  • Changes in sensation (often temporary, sometimes longer-lasting)
  • Asymmetry or contour irregularities
  • Blood clots and other serious complications (uncommon, but important to discuss)
  • Risks related to general anaesthesia

Fees vary depending on the type of body lift, surgical time, hospital and anaesthetist fees, and whether the procedure is staged. A personalised quote is provided after assessment once your plan is confirmed.

Body lift surgery is commonly performed for cosmetic reasons, so Medicare rebates are not usually available. In some cases, if excess skin is associated with medically significant problems such as recurrent rashes, infections, or hygiene issues, eligibility may be discussed. Medicare and private health support depend on strict criteria and are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

FAQs ...

Not always. A tummy tuck focuses on the front of the abdomen. A lower body lift is more extensive and addresses the lower torso around the waistline, including the back and hip areas, depending on the plan.

It means the incision and tightening plan extends around the body to address excess skin and tissue of the lower torso, rather than treating only the front abdomen.

A lower body lift can improve contour and lift effect in the buttocks and outer thigh region in some patients by tightening and repositioning tissue. The exact change varies and depends on anatomy.

Some patients have abdominal muscle separation that may need repair. If significant muscle repair is required, your surgeon may recommend a staged approach rather than combining everything at once.

Many desk-based workers plan around 2 to 3 weeks, while physical jobs often need longer. Your surgeon will guide timing based on your surgery extent and your recovery progress.

Scars are permanent, but they are planned low where possible and generally fade over time. Scar quality varies based on skin type, genetics, and healing.

No. It is designed to remove excess skin and reshape contour after weight loss or body changes. Weight stability helps results last.

Sometimes, but not always. A combined approach may be suitable for selected patients, while many benefit from staging for safety, recovery, and predictability.

why choose me clinic ...

With over 35 years of experience in plastic surgery, aesthetic cosmetic medicine, and skin rejuvenation, Me Clinic is built around a simple priority: patient-first care.

We take time to understand you as an individual and curate an approach that feels meaningful and appropriate for your needs. We listen, we care, and we support you through your journey — from consultation through to aftercare.

Our team of Specialist Plastic Surgeons can advise on suitable options to address your concerns. In an ever-evolving field, we focus on evidence-informed care and contemporary treatment options, with suitability always assessed on an individual basis.

Surgeons who perform Lipectomy procedures at Me Clinic …

Book your body lift consultation ...

If you are considering a Lipectomy, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is your opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn about suitable options, and understand what your personalised plan may involve.

For all surgical procedures, you will need a valid GP Medical Referral to have a medical or cosmetic consultation with Me Clinic’s Specialist Plastic Surgeons. To begin your journey, call 1300 852 050 or enquire via our contact form.

We look forward to hearing from you soon and answering any further questions you may have.

book a consultation

contact us ...

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