Body Lifts:
Primarily as a result of the great strides that have been made in weight loss
surgery (bariatric surgery) we now have Americans who have successfully
lost 100-200 lbs.! What that means cosmetically speaking is that a
person could have gone down 10 to 20 dress or suit sizes without the
benefit of having that suit (skin envelope) shrink to fit the new body.
These patients literally have excess skin sliding and hanging off of
their bodies. All over their bodies. It is not unusual to need
everything to be lifted; face, neck, breast, arms, abdomen, midsection,
buttocks, and thighs.
The lower body lift is a fundamental component of
the skin envelope alterations needed to restore patients back to a
normal appearance. Lower body lifts usually incorporate outer thigh and
buttock lifts along with a large abdominal skin resection. Drains and
pain pumps, urinary catheters, and oral meds will be needed for a week
or more. Medical clearance is a prerequisite, and must be available for
our doctors to review 24-48hrs before surgery.
BEFORE SURGERY
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to
evaluate the general health of the patient. Dr. Gordon will do a
thorough examination of the entire patient as well as the breast to
determine the most effective surgical approach. He will describe the
type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results might
realistically be expected, and the possible risks and complications.
Mammograms or x-rays may be taken as well as digital photography (no face shots!).
FOLLOWING SURGERY
Pain connected with the procedure is mild to moderate, but is
controlled with oral medication. Daily showers and antibiotics will be
continued to prevent infection. Instructions for the day of surgery
include bed rest and limited activities. Dr. Gordon will determine when
normal activities can be resumed; however, weight training and aerobic
exercise must be avoided for several days.
Sutures are dissolvable and do so in about ten days. Numbness and over
sensitivity around the treated area may occur, but this condition is
usually temporary. Swelling and discoloration disappear in a few days,
and scars from the incisions, although permanent, fade significantly
with time.
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