Body Lift

Body Lift in Queensland – Arm Lift and More at Our Bundaberg and Mackay-area Facilities

Over time, conditions such as pregnancy, age, and fluctuating body weight can stretch normally close-fitting skin, creating loose folds that are uncomfortable and unsightly. in addition the recent refinement of bariatric surgery and the success it brings for patients with the intention of massive weight loss can certainly find improvement with these types of procedure. With surgery, James Gaffield, FACS FRACS. can remove inconvenient, redundant excess skin to improve the body’s overall contour. Procedures such as a Thigh Lift, Brachioplasty or Arm Lift, and Body Lift give our Queensland-area patients from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay and Gladstone, and the broader South East Queensland a way to permanently eliminate unwanted skin folds during post-weight loss body contouring. To learn more about these impressive treatments, contact Pacific Plastic Surgery  today.

Body Lift

A body lift targets excess skin and residual fat deposits affecting the entire upper and lower body. This is one of the most complex and involved plastic surgery procedures available, requiring an extended recovery period. However, it is also the best way for patients with excess folds of skin on multiple areas of the body to achieve an aesthetically pleasing contour. In many cases, Dr. Gaffield also performs procedures like abdominoplasty or breast lift for body lift patients. This sort of comprehensive surgery is an excellent way for patients who have recently lost large amounts of weight, often through bariatric surgery, to complete the transformation to a slimmer, more attractive body shape.

Body Lift Procedure

Every person’s body shape is unique, and each body lift procedure is totally customized to the needs of the patient. In general, however, the body lift procedure requires long incisions in areas where excess skin and fat can be removed as discreetly as possible. Dr. Gaffield works with each body lift patient at Pacific Plastic Surgery and Elite Cosmetic Clinic in Queensland to position incisions where they will be concealed by the patient’s clothing.

Body Lift Recovery

Because a body lift is so complex and invasive, patients should be prepared for a longer recovery period than is required for many other procedures. Most of our body lift patients spend a week recovering at the hospital in Queensland after surgery. Patients return home with drainage tubes placed to help drain fluid from the sites of their incisions in order to control swelling. Dr. Gaffield also provides a compression garment to be worn at all times during the initial six weeks of healing, which helps the skin adhere more closely to the body. It is important to avoid most physical activity with the exception of light walking for several weeks after a body lift. In general, patients are able to return to most normal activities after about six weeks, and to activities like exercise and heavy lifting after eight weeks.

Arm Lift

One common area for loose skin to accumulate is on the upper arms. This skin may hang uncomfortably, making it difficult to wear short-sleeved shirts and other specific articles of clothing. By performing an arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, Dr. Gaffield can remove the excessive redundancy of skin to enhance both comfort and appearance.

Arm Lift Procedure

An arm lift can be performed with various techniques. The best one in any given case depends on the amount of skin being removed and its location. For patients with a great deal of excess skin to be removed, Dr. Gaffield may use an incision running all the way from armpit to elbow along the inner arm. Shorter arm lift incisions are possible for patients with less severe needs. In order to minimize scarring, he often uses a Z-shaped or curved incision that is easier to conceal. If excess fat remains in the arms, Dr. Gaffield may perform liposuction to remove it during the arm lift procedure.

Arm Lift Recovery

Brachioplasty is an inpatient procedure, meaning most patients at our Queensland surgical facilities will stay a few days in hospital after the procedure. Most people rest for about a week at home after surgery before resuming light household duties. Some swelling and numbness is common during this period, but it will fade with the help of a compression garment and massage. It is crucial for arm lift patients to avoid lifting, pushing, exercise, and other activities that could strain the arms. Some light walking, however, is a good way to speed recovery and minimize the risk of complications. Most arm lift patients return to a lighter version of their normal routine in less than four  weeks, though it is important to avoid strenuous exercise for a few weeks longer to avoid straining the arm lift incisions.

Thigh Lift

Like the arms, the thighs are commonly affected by excess skin folds. As they develop these folds can become extremely uncomfortable, rubbing together to irritate the skin. Dr. Gaffield performs thigh lift surgery to remove excess skin and residual fat from the thighs to produce, firmer, more comfortable legs.

Thigh Lift Procedure

There are a variety of approaches to thigh lift surgery targeting different parts of the leg and using different incision styles. Dr. Gaffield can tailor the procedure to target the inner thighs or the front and outer portion of the legs. At the incision sites, he removes skin and fatty tissue to reshape the upper legs for a slimmer, more toned appearance. Dr. Gaffield always intends to conceal thigh lift incisions as inconspicuously as possible, and many patients are still able to wear revealing swimsuits without making their surgical scars readily visible.

Thigh Lift Recovery

Thigh lift, like arm lift, in an inpatient procedure, usually just under a week under the care of our surgical nurses. Most patients spend a week or two resting at home after treatment, at which point they are able to return to light work and other normal activities. During this time patients wear a compression garment to control swelling and protect the incisions. As with other procedures, light walking can help minimize complications and speed the recovery process. Running and other strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least eight weeks until the incisions have matured.

Contact Our Plastic Surgeon

Body lifting procedures, including thigh and arm lift, offer amazing benefits to the right patients. Schedule a body contouring consultation with Dr. James Gaffield to find out what a thigh, arm, or body lift can do to help you rid yourself of uncomfortable excess skin. Our Queensland-area practice is a superior destination for cosmetic plastic surgery.

Questions & Answers
Will I have a lot of pain recovering from this procedure?
The pain experienced from this procedure depends on a few factors. Mostly, the pain experienced can be compared somewhere between an intense abdominal work out and a caesarian section. Most patients are completely surprised that it is not as painful as expected. You are given a particular blend of medications both in the hospital and once discharged to combat the discomfort which in varying degrees lasts for about three weeks.
When can I resume physical activity like gym, running, weight training etc?
Depending on the individual, pain and surgical technique you are encouraged to return to simple cardio like walking, stationary bike and treadmill with incline as soon as you like. Exercises with more impact are usually ok from 4 – 6 weeks and high energy, resistance and weight training from 8 weeks post op. This is to minimize ongoing swelling and increased risk of complication.
Will I have to change my own surgical dressings?
It is preferable that all dressings are renewed by our nursing staff. For our clients who live outside of Bundaberg and travel to appointments our nursing staff will guide you when appropriate if dressings need self care.
Will I be in much pain after surgery?
Of course pain varies and it depends on many factors. All patients are prescribed analgesia and a muscle relaxant to ensure comfort. Most clients will require a couple of days of pain relief and then over the counter medications will usually solve any residual tenderness.
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Photos on this website are actual patients of Dr James Gaffield, however do not reflect an expected result for your individual anatomical characteristics.Site Developed by Top Ranking Media