Body Contouring or Body Lift?

A body-lift is necessary when there is significant amounts of excess skin, as is often seen in massive weight-loss patients. Body contouring often refers to contouring by way of liposuction. Such contouring does not involve skin excision and is best suited to patients who have tighter skin. At times, body-lift procedures (skin excision) may be combined with contouring (liposuction).

Your question is very insightful. Congratulations on your wt. loss.  Unfortunately, for most patients the success of wt loss results in excess skin throughout the body.  It is very important to understand that for most patients, one operative procedure will not be enough to correct all of the post wt loss concerns.  Meet with your board certified plastic surgeon and outline a safe, effective plan which will address your concerns specifically.  While a lower body lift is extremely effective at addressing the abdomen, hips, buttox and lateral thighs, it will not typically address the upper/inner thighs or knees.  After your new abdominal/waist line shape, your attention will likely focus on skin redundancies in your arms, chest etc.  Make sure you are well informed before you embark on your surgical contouring, it will be rewarding for you if you have realistic expectations on outcome. best of luck. Dr. Renucci