Belt Lipectomy

A belt lipectomy, also known as a body lift or extended abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin, fat, and tissue around the hips and waistline. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals with poor tissue elasticity, which can lead to sagging in these areas. The width of the tissue "belt" removed depends on the amount of excess skin and fat present. After the tissue is removed, the remaining upper skin is pulled down and the lower skin is pulled up, resulting in a tighter, more youthful body contour.
Procedure Name: Belt Lipectomy
Common Name: Body Lift, Extended Abdominoplasty

The belt lipectomy typically begins with the patient lying face down (prone position) while the surgeon addresses the posterior buttocks and lower back area. Once this part of the surgery is completed, the patient is turned onto their back so that the front of the body, including the abdominal area, can be treated. This completes the "belt" around the midsection, effectively lifting and tightening the entire lower body.

DURATION

4-6 hours

ANAESTHETIC

General anaesthesia – discussed with your surgeon

PRE-OPERATIVE CARE

Before undergoing a belt lipectomy, a thorough medical evaluation is essential to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. This will include a detailed medical history, physical examination, and assessments of any existing health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. It's also important to disclose any food and drug allergies, supplements, and current medications (both prescription and over-the-counter).

To reduce the risk of post-operative bleeding, you should avoid taking aspirin and any medications containing aspirin for two weeks before surgery. Additionally, it’s advised to stop smoking 1-2 months prior, as smoking can interfere with anaesthesia and slow the healing process. If you have hypertension, be sure to inform your surgeon.

POST OPERATIVE CARE

After your belt lipectomy, your abdomen and waistline will be wrapped with dressings, bandages, and a binder to provide support and minimise discomfort. A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may accumulate. Recovery requires careful management, as you’ll need to avoid bending at the waist for about a month to allow for proper healing. It's important to ensure that the surgical incisions aren’t subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or movement during the recovery period.

Pain is common after surgery, but it is usually manageable with prescribed pain medications. You will also receive antibiotics to help prevent infection. While you should be able to resume regular activities after about two weeks, you should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for several months. It may take 6-12 months for you to fully adjust to your tighter, more contoured body. To maintain your results, it’s crucial to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine.

For the first week after surgery, you will need to sit or walk slightly bent over. Swelling in the abdomen and other surgical sites may persist for a month or more. You will also need to wear support garments as directed by your surgeon.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

Knowing what complications may arise, as well as what can prevent them, will help patients enjoy a positive experience.
As with any surgery, a belt lipectomy comes with risks and potential complications.

Infection |
Excessive bleeding |
Adverse reaction to anaesthesia |
Need for additional procedures |
Scarring |
Breakdown of the suture line above the buttocks

It's crucial to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully to minimise the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcome.

IMPORTANT

Every surgical or invasive procedure comes with risks. It's advisable to seek a second opinion from a qualified healthcare professional before proceeding.