Skip to content 
Practical Information
Plastic Surgery
-
Improve body contour;
-
Reduce localized fat and/or abdominal skin laxity.
3 to 5 hours
General Anesthesia
1 or more days, depending on the surgeon’s recommendation.
4 to 6 weeks
What is a Body Lift?
A Body Lift is a plastic surgery procedure in which excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen and back.
In some cases, if the patient wishes, this surgery can be combined with buttock augmentation using the patient’s own tissues (without implants).
How is it performed?
Through a circumferential incision around the body, excess skin and fat are removed not only from the front of the abdomen – similar to an abdominoplasty – but also from the posterior area.
The surgery usually begins with the patient lying face down or on their side. Once the posterior area has been treated, the patient is turned onto their back so the procedure can be completed with an abdominoplasty, thereby addressing the full circumference of the waist.
Who is this surgery for?
A Body Lift is generally indicated in cases of significant weight loss.
This procedure can achieve a significant improvement in body contour.
In particular, it is an option when weight loss results in excess skin and laxity in the abdominal and back areas, affecting the overall harmony of the waistline. A surgical consultation is essential to confirm the indication and define the most appropriate treatment plan based on each patient’s characteristics and goals.
Expected Results
These are some of the results you can expect after a Body Lift:
- Significant improvement in body contour;
- Increased firmness;
- Correction of abdominal skin laxity;
- A more youthful, toned and harmonious appearance;
- Relief of skin-related issues, as removing excess skin can reduce associated discomfort such as irritation, fungal infections and hygiene difficulties.
Each patient is unique and, for this reason, results may vary from person to person depending on several factors, such as the extent of the surgery, skin elasticity and individual response to the procedure.
Body Lift Post-Surgery and Recovery
Recovery after a Body Lift is somewhat longer due to the need to avoid bending at the waist for one month, until proper healing has occurred.
During the post-operative period, the patient should wear a compression garment for approximately 6 to 8 weeks and gradually increase activity levels.
Some numbness may occur in the area above – and sometimes below – the incisions, as well as residual laxity and skin irregularity, along with the most common side effects of any surgical procedure.
What is the scar like after Body Lift?
Scars are strategically positioned to be less visible when the patient is clothed. They may extend around the body at the waist or along the waistline and may also extend to the back, thighs and buttocks, depending on the extent of the surgery.
Some changes may occur along the suture line just above the buttocks due to bending movements of the torso and the weight of the gluteal region. As a result, the scar in the posterior surgical area may become wider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of anesthesia is used?
A Body Lift is usually performed under general anesthesia. This means the patient will be completely unconscious throughout the surgery.
What is the length of hospital stay?
The length of hospital stay after a Body Lift may vary, but many patients can expect to remain hospitalized for one or more days, depending on the extent of the surgery and the surgeon’s assessment of post-operative recovery.
What are the risks of surgery?
Some of the possible risks associated with a Body Lift include:
- Hematoma (a collection of blood) or seroma (clear fluid);
- Suture dehiscence (opening of the stitches);
- Infection at the incision site;
- Healing issues, such as widened scars;
- Risk of asymmetry;
- Changes in sensation.
What are the contraindications?
This plastic surgery procedure is not recommended for people with serious medical conditions, such as uncontrolled heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or other severe systemic conditions.
Patients with untreated psychological conditions, such as eating disorders or severe depression, should not undergo surgery.
We also do not recommend a Body Lift for women who plan to become pregnant in the future, as results may be compromised.
Before undergoing the procedure, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and share your full medical history, lifestyle, and expectations with the plastic surgeon, so you are well informed and prepared.
Plastic Surgeon
[Medical License #53318]
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho is a specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He completed his degree in Medicine at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto and the Internship in Specific Training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery took place at Hospital de São José (Lisbon) and Hospital de São João (Oporto).
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho performed several internships, namely on Oncology Surgery of the Head and Neck at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology – Oporto and a fellowship of Hand Surgery, organized by the Portuguese Society of Hand Surgery. He also performed international internships in Aesthetic Surgery, Breast Reconstruction and Lymphedema at the Clinic Planas – Barcelona, at the University Hospital of Brussels and at the Villa Sant’Apollonia Clinic – Bergamo, having contacted with references in Plastic Surgery such as Dr. Jaume Masià, Dr. Moustapha Hamdi and Dr. Enrico Robotti.
Currently, he is also a plastic surgeon at the Hospital de São João – Oporto, and a Invited Lecturer at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto.
In the field of cosmetic surgery, he has a special interest in facial cosmetic surgery, breast cosmetic surgery, body contouring surgery and vaginal cosmetic surgery.
What is the Price of Body Lift?
The price of a Body Lift varies depending on several factors, so an individual assessment is required. Schedule a consultation to receive a personalized quote and have all your questions answered.
Financing options: At Living Clinic, we want to ensure that all patients have access to the treatment they desire. That is why we provide financing options (interest-free financing for up to 12 months), allowing you to undergo your surgery in a more affordable way, without compromising the quality of the procedure and care.
Plastic Surgery Testimonials
“Dr. Francisco Martins De Carvalho doesn’t forget the smallest detail. He seeks perfection and finds it. A unique and sublime talent. I woke up with the body of a teenager (I’m 41). Thank you for making me smile.”
“Very attentive doctor, very helpful and friendly receptionist. Welcoming and pleasant environment.”
“I had a gynocomastia surgery about two weeks ago, performed by Dr. Carvalho. The surgery went exactly as he outlined during the consultation. The process was very smooth and painless. Even though it’s only been two weeks, it feels like I never had surgery, and the result is truly flawless. Dr. Carvalho provided very detailed […]
“One of the best surgeons, I’m so grateful for the excellent work he did with me! A perfectionist!! I couldn’t be happier with the results! Thank you, Dr. Francisco Carvalho!”
“Dr. Francisco Carvalho is undoubtedly the best plastic surgeon with a very promising future ahead. His dedication, responsibility, professionalism, concern for patients, sensitivity, and humility are second to none. I highly recommend him. Thank you, Dr. Francisco, and the entire team for everything, but especially Dr. Francisco Carvalho. I recommend this plastic surgeon to anyone […]
LOCATION
Where to have Body Lift in Porto?
Have your Body Lift at Living Clinic with maximum safety and natural results! We are located at Av. da Boavista 117 6th floor, Room 607, 4050-115 Porto, Portugal.
Schedule a consultation with the plastic surgeon to hear his recommendation for your specific case and clarify all your questions.
