Body Lift

About Body Lift

A lower body lift removes loose skin around the whole lower trunk: the abdomen, flanks, lower back and sometimes the buttocks and outer thighs. It leaves a scar that runs around the body.

It is designed for people who have lost a large amount of weight, often after bariatric surgery, and have hanging skin that causes discomfort, rashes or difficulty with clothing. It is a major operation with a longer recovery.

Who it may be suitable for

• Hanging skin around the trunk after major weight loss
• A weight that has been stable for at least six to twelve months
• Good nutrition and fitness for a long operation
• Good general health, a stable weight and no smoking, or willingness to stop

These are general points only. Whether an operation is suitable for you is decided by the treating surgeon after an in-person examination, your medical history and any tests they request.

How it works

1. 01

   Remote review

   You share photos and your medical history. The surgeon gives a first opinion on whether the operation is suitable and what it could realistically achieve.

2. 02

   Consultation in Istanbul

   The surgeon examines you in person, confirms the plan, explains the risks and arranges pre-operative tests before you give consent.

3. 03

   Surgery

   Under general anaesthesia, loose skin is removed around the trunk in one or more stages, usually with a hospital stay of several nights.

4. 04

   Check before you fly

   The surgeon reviews healing before you travel home, and you receive written aftercare instructions and remote follow-up.

What to expect and aftercare

1. First days

   You usually stay in hospital for at least one night. Pain is controlled with medication, you start walking early to protect against clots, and drains may be in place.

2. Weeks 1–2

   Drains and stitches are removed as healing allows. You wear a compression garment and avoid lifting and strenuous activity.

3. Weeks 4–6

   Most people return gradually to exercise with the surgeon’s approval. Swelling is still present and can vary from day to day.

4. Months 3–12

   Swelling settles and scars slowly fade and flatten. The final shape is usually judged after several months.

Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.

Risks and considerations

• This is a long operation with higher risks of blood clots, wound breakdown and fluid collection than smaller procedures.
• The scar encircles the body. Its position is planned to sit under most clothing, but it is permanent.
• All surgery carries risks, including bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia.
• Scars are permanent. Surgeons place them where they are easiest to hide, but how they mature varies from person to person.
• Smoking and nicotine products significantly increase the risk of wound-healing problems. Most surgeons ask you to stop for several weeks before and after surgery.
• Recovery takes several weeks, and help at home is needed at first.

Common questions