Body Lift - How Long Do Results Last?

The lift effect from body lift surgery, for the most part is permanent. The contouring achieved by removal of excess skin and fat is permanent. The undermining, advancement and tightening of the skin of the thighs and buttocks is also permanent. Naturally there will be some relaxation of the skin early after surgery and the skin and connective tissues will loosen and sag gradually as you continue to age. I would recommend that you go ahead with the surgery at 35. The improvements should last well into your 40’s and 50’s. If you wait until you are older, you may not be as good a surgical risk as you are now. 

Hello RealSelf Admin in Deep Water, WV. Thank you for your question regarding the longevity of results after a body lift.

The results from a body lift should be long-lasting, but they depend on several factors, including your lifestyle, genetics, and how well you maintain your weight post-surgery. Most patients enjoy the benefits of a body lift for many years, well into their 40s, 50s, and beyond. However, it is important to note that your skin will naturally lose some elasticity over time due to aging, and factors such as significant weight fluctuations or pregnancies can affect the longevity of your results.

To maximize the durability of your body lift, it’s essential to maintain a stable weight, follow a healthy diet, and engage in regular exercise. Additionally, good skincare, including sun protection, can help preserve your skin's elasticity and the overall results of the lift.

Most plastic surgeons would agree that with proper maintenance, the results of a body lift can be lifelong. If you are concerned about the long-term effectiveness of the procedure, it's worth discussing these concerns with your plastic surgeon during your consultation.

Good luck, and I hope this helps you make an informed decision about when to proceed with your body lift.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Significant amounts of buttock sag are unlikely following a lower body lift procedure, but lesser degrees of sag are inevitable following this type of intervention. This is related to the constant force of gravity which impacts the lower body lift procedure.Factors that are associated with the development of recurrent sag include thin skin, large buttocks, fluctuations in weight, pregnancy, inadequate support and certain types of diseases that involve the connective tissue. Surgical technique is important as well, but less important than the patient's wound healing and soft tissue characteristics.In my experience, lower body lifts are associated with excellent clinical results and high levels of patient satisfaction. In many cases, they can last 10 to 15 years. It's important to realize that gravity goes to work immediately and as time marches on, recurrent sag is inevitable to some degree.