Torsoplasty (Lower Body Lift Surgery)

If you have had changes in the size and shape of your abdomen, lower back, or buttocks due to massive weight loss or pregnancy, you may be a good candidate for torsoplasty (sometimes called a lower body lift). The torsoplasty procedure consists of abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and a lower back/buttock lift. This can also be combined with liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, and back.

Who is a good candidate for Torsoplasty?

Torsoplasty is ideal for those in good health who have developed excess skin (excess torso skin) after weight loss or pregnancy. This procedure can complete your weight loss journey, remove excess skin, and fit the frame of your smaller body.

Body Contouring Procedures

Abdominoplasty

Also known as “tummy tuck”, abdominoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure to contour the shape of your abdomen and remove loose skin. This is accomplished through an incision in your lower abdomen that stretches from hip to hip. The excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen are removed, and the skin of the upper abdomen is stretched down to become the skin of the whole abdomen. The belly button is left attached to the underlying musculature and brought through a new circular incision in the abdominal skin after it has been stretched. The rectus muscles (the “six-pack” muscles) are stitched together in the midline to correct for stretching from pregnancy or obesity. This helps to strengthen your core and acts as an “internal corset”. A drain is typically placed. The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches for minimal skin deformity.

Lower Back/Buttock Lift

The lower back or buttock lift is a surgical procedure to contour the shape of your lower back, outer thighs, and/or buttocks after significant weight loss. An incision is made from hip to hip across the top of the buttocks and typically carries into the abdominoplasty incision on the front. Excess back skin and fat are removed, thereby tightening the buttocks and lower back, improving their shape. A drain is placed on both sides. Incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches.

Torsoplasty Recovery

Your doctor will provide you with instructions regarding wound care and activity following Torsoplasty surgery. Recovery after Torsoplasty takes 4-6 weeks. Most patients are ready to resume normal activities by one month after surgery. Exercises involving the abdominal musculature cannot be done until 6-8 weeks after surgery in order to protect the muscle repair. You will be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to take after surgery. Drains are usually removed by 1-2 weeks. Swelling can persist for up to three months, and final results are typically evident by three months after surgery.

To maintain your results, we recommend sticking to a stable weight, keeping a regular exercise routine, and eating a healthy diet.

If you are considering a torsoplasty and would like to ask questions, contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our doctors.