Tummy tuck vs body lift? What are the benefits and downfalls for each treatment? (Photo)

Question

Ive had multiple consults in an attempt to find a MD I trust. With each consult there was a very different tx plan sugestedI'm 5'3 188lbs and had a significant about of weight loss plus 2 children. One MD suggested a lower body lift with lipo and the other said that was extreme and I didn't need it and i would do well with a tummy tuck and back lipo. What age the benifits and downfalls for each one amd what would i b a good canidate for?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about choosing between a lower body lift and a tummy tuck. Considering your history of weight loss and pregnancy and the presence of stretch marks, your skin might not have optimal elasticity after traditional liposuction. Aging further diminishes this elasticity, making liposuction outcomes less reliable. Therefore, I would recommend a 360-degree circumferential lower body lift, which provides comprehensive reshaping — encompassing a tummy tuck, pubic lift, waist contouring, hip lift, and buttock reduction. While the recovery might be longer, the more dramatic and holistic results could be well worth it. On the other hand, a tummy tuck primarily targets the abdominal area, with potentially shorter recovery but a more localized effect.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Posterior angled photos focusing on the buttock/hip/thigh region will answer your question. A true body lift is designed to pull up the entire buttock/lateral thigh/hip complex that has fallen due to age and/or weight loss. Those structures can not be seen in the photos provided. On the other hand, some women have laxity or will have laxity in the hip/upper buttock region after liposuction, which is an indication for an extended tummy tuck, which would remove that deflated skin in the hip/upper buttock region. The incision can go pretty far back, looking like a body lift, but it isn't.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear _Ari86_,
 it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Heather Vande Ven, DO · Answer

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) primarily addresses the abdominal area, removing excess skin and fat. It’s beneficial for those with sagging skin post-pregnancy or weight loss. However, it doesn’t address other body areas.
On the other hand, a body lift targets multiple areas, including the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. It’s more comprehensive but also more invasive than a tummy tuck. 
Benefits of a tummy tuck:
1. Focuses on the abdominal region2. Less extensive surgery compared to a body lift
Downfalls of a tummy tuck:
1. Limited scope – doesn’t address other body areas2. Recovery time varies but can be several weeks
Benefits of a body lift:
1. Comprehensive improvement in multiple body areas2. Addresses excessive skin and tissue in the lower body
Downfalls of a body lift:
1. More extensive surgery with a potentially longer recovery2. Higher cost compared to a tummy tuck 
The choice between a tummy tuck and a body lift depends on individual goals, the extent of correction needed, and tolerance for recovery. Consulting with a plastic surgeon is crucial to determine the most suitable option for your specific situation.

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

There is no a photo of your back to see what is needed in that area. But based on your photo, you do not need a lower body lift. Your hip and bottom are not hanging like your abdomen. An extended incision, no drain tummy tuck, and lipo like a lipotuck would address the issue.

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

Abdominoplasty (mini, standard, extended) and lower body lift are continuations of the same general concept: removal of extra skin and fat. If you don’t have extra skin extending beyond your flank area to your lower back, you probably do not need a lower body lift. Your photos suggest an extended abdominoplasty with posterior liposuction will give you a good result.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the supplied photos it appears you would be a good candidate for an extended tummy tuck and liposuction for contouring.  This would address loose abdominal skin, muscle wall separation, and excess subcutaneous fat.  A lower body lift would be indicated if you have significant loose skin on the back and buttocks that you would like addressed.

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