Body Lift Orange County | Newport Beach

Body Lift Overview

Losing a significant amount of weight by any means is an incredible accomplishment. Whether you’ve shed pounds through diet and exercise, bariatric surgery, or a combination of both, you deserve to celebrate all that you’ve achieved for your health, energy levels and confidence.

But what if your mirror doesn’t yet reflect the new you? Many people find themselves facing an unexpected challenge after significant weight loss: excess skin that stubbornly clings to their abdomen, buttocks and thighs. This loose skin can hide the new figure you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

We understand how frustrating it can be to have come so far, only to feel that your physical transformation is incomplete. You deserve to feel as amazing on the outside as you do on the inside. That’s where body lift surgery comes in.

Dr. Matthew J. Nykiel, our board-certified plastic surgeon and body contouring expert, specializes in helping patients like you unveil the body you’ve earned. With his artistic eye and technical precision, Dr. Nykiel can sculpt away excess skin, tighten your contours and reveal the sleek, toned silhouette that truly reflects your hard work.

Book a consultation with Dr. Nykiel to get started.

What Is Body Lift Surgery?

A body lift, also known as a belt lipectomy, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from multiple areas of the body simultaneously. It’s a comprehensive approach to body contouring that can reshape your entire midsection.

During a body lift, Dr. Nykiel typically focuses on four key areas:

The abdomen
The buttocks
The thighs
The lower back

By treating these areas as a unit, Dr. Nykiel can create a smoother, more contoured silhouette from every angle.

The procedure involves making an incision that typically runs around the circumference of your body, allowing Dr. Nykiel to remove excess skin and fat, and then reposition and tighten the remaining tissues. He may also incorporate liposuction to further refine your results.

Why Choose Body Lift Surgery?

After significant weight loss, you’ve already done the hard part — but your body might need a little extra help to catch up with your achievement. Many patients see cosmetic surgery as the last piece of their transformation puzzle.

The reality is, weight loss can only get you so far, even if you lead an ultra-healthy lifestyle. Diet and exercise simply cannot get rid of excess skin, remove stubborn localized fat deposits or tighten weakened underlying tissues. A body lift can accomplish all of these things and provide the final boost of confidence that allows you to embrace your new self.

There may also be functional benefits. Excess skin can cause irritation, rashes and even infections. It may limit the types of clothing you feel good in, or prevent you from engaging fully in physical activities. Surgery eliminates these issues, allowing you to move more comfortably and confidently.

A body lift is a significant surgical procedure with the downtime and scars to match. However, for many patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight, it’s a more than worthy tradeoff. It may be an exciting final step that lets your hard-earned results truly shine.

Am I a Candidate for a Body Lift in Newport Beach?

Ideal candidates for body lift surgery typically meet the following criteria:

Have lost a substantial amount of weight, either through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes
Have maintained a stable weight for at least six to 12 months
Have loose, sagging skin in multiple areas, particularly around the midsection, buttocks and thighs
Have realistic expectations about the downtime, recovery and outcome of the surgery
Are in good overall health
Are non-smokers or willing to quit before and after surgery
Are committed to maintaining a stable weight and overall health post-surgery

A Note From Dr. Nykiel

“I often get asked about the “perfect” weight for a body lift, and I’ll let you in on a little secret — there isn’t one. However, there are some guidelines that will help you understand if you’re in the right ballpark for this surgery.

First, let’s talk about BMI (Body Mass Index). It’s a way of comparing your weight to your height using kilograms divided by meters squared. While it’s not a perfect measure, it gives us a starting point.

Here’s why it matters: we know that surgical risks start to climb with BMIs over 35. That’s true whether the surgery is elective or medically necessary. Most plastic surgeons draw the line at 35 and some, myself included, prefer to see a max BMI of 32 or even 30.

But it’s not just about the numbers. I look at the whole picture. Are you at a stable weight? How is your overall health, nutrition and physical fitness? I want you to have the safest experience possible and get those jaw-dropping results you want, and these are the factors that help ensure that.

If you’re not quite there yet, don’t sweat it! Keep working towards your goals, and when you’re ready, I’ll be here to help you cross that finish line in style.”

What Are the Treatment Steps for a Body Lift?

On the day of your surgery, you’ll be placed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

Dr. Nykiel will start by making incisions. The exact placement and length will depend on the areas he’s addressing and the amount of skin you have. He will remove excess skin and fat, then reposition and tighten the remaining tissues to create smooth, natural-looking contours.

Once the contouring is complete, Dr. Nykiel will carefully close the incisions using advanced suturing techniques to promote healing and minimize scarring.

What Techniques Does Dr. Nykiel Use During a Body Lift?

During your consultation, Dr. Nykiel will explain which techniques he recommends for your specific case and why.

One common body lift technique uses a 360-degree incision around the midsection. This incision typically runs:

Across your lower abdomen, similar to a tummy tuck incision
Around your sides
Across your lower back
Over the upper part of your buttocks

This approach allows Dr. Nykiel to tighten and lift all of these areas in one procedure. The incision is placed low enough that it is hidden by most underwear or swimwear.

If Dr. Nykiel recommends performing the surgeries separately, your treatment plan may involve an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or panniculectomy, buttock lift and/or thigh lift. You can also incorporate a breast lift or arm lift if you’d like upper body contouring.

For additional shaping on top of your body lift, Dr. Nykiel may suggest liposuction, breast augmentation or a BBL.

What Anesthesia Is Used During Body Lift Surgery?

Dr. Nykiel performs body lift procedures under general anesthesia. Patients are completely unconscious during the procedure, so you will not feel any pain or be aware of your surroundings. You will need to arrange for someone you trust to pick you up and take you home after the procedure.

What Goes Into the Recovery Process?

Most patients return home the same day, though occasionally an overnight stay is recommended for the patient’s comfort and safety.

The first week post-surgery is crucial for your recovery. You should rest as much as possible and have someone to help you at home for at least the first few days. Activity will be restricted and discomfort is normal.

As you move into weeks two through four, you’ll start to feel more like yourself. However, you must continue taking it easy. Most patients can return to desk jobs after two to three weeks.

Around the four to six-week mark, you’ll likely be cleared to resume light exercise. Remember to listen to your body and follow Dr. Nykiel’s guidance closely. During this time, you’ll notice swelling continuing to subside, and you’ll start to see your new contours emerging.

By months two and three, most patients are back to their normal routines, including more vigorous exercise. You’ll continue to see refinements in your reshape and scars over the next six to 12 months.

How Is Pain Managed During Body Lift Recovery?

Dr. Nykiel has developed a comprehensive pain management protocol to ensure you have the smoothest possible recovery after your body lift surgery. This includes medications administered pre-op and long-acting local anesthetics administered during surgery.

Once you’re home, you’ll follow a personalized pain management plan. This typically includes a combination of prescribed medications that target different types of pain:

Gabapentin to address nerve-related discomfort
Diazepam to ease muscle tension
Celecoxib to reduce inflammation
Hydrocodone for general pain relief
Tylenol to address cellular signaling pain

Dr. Nykiel’s goal is to keep you comfortable without over-medicating. He’ll provide clear instructions on when and how to take your medications, and our team will be available to answer any questions you might have.

In addition to medication, we encourage nonpharmacological pain management techniques like:

Proper positioning to minimize strain on your incisions
Gentle walking to promote circulation and reduce swelling
Cold therapy in the early stages of recovery
Compression garments to support your healing tissues

What Are the Risks of Body Lift Surgery?

While Dr. Nykiel’s expertise and meticulous approach significantly minimize risks, it’s important to acknowledge that all surgical procedures carry some potential for complications.

Some of the risks associated with body lift surgery include:

Infection
Bleeding and hematoma
Seroma
Changes in skin sensation (temporary or permanent)
Asymmetry
Delayed wound healing
Scarring
Anesthesia complications

We encourage you to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have about these risks. Our team is here to provide you with all the information you need to feel confident in your decision.

A Note From Dr. Nykiel

“I get this question all the time: “Doc, I’ve had my weight loss surgery, I’m shedding pounds like crazy… when can I see you for the finishing touches?”

Plastic surgery after massive weight loss usually involves serious body contouring. We’re removing excess skin, sculpting fat and sometimes even tightening up your muscles. But we can’t start redecorating until the demolition is done.

Your body goes through a bit of a roller coaster after weight loss surgery. You’ll lose weight, then stabilize, then lose some more, then stabilize again. Typically, this fluctuation ends about six months to a year after your bariatric surgery. That’s when your weight tends to settle into its new normal.

We like to wait a few more months after that so your body can really settle into its new shape. All that extra skin needs time to show us where it’s hanging out (pun totally intended). This way, when you are ready for plastic surgery, we know exactly what we’re dealing with.

So, the magic number? About three months after your weight loss stops. If you’re not there yet, keep up the great work and remember that good things come to those who wait.”

When Will I See the Final Results of My Body Lift?

Immediately after your surgery, you’ll be able to see a dramatic change in your body shape. However, you can expect to be swollen during this time, so it’s not representative of your final results. The swelling will gradually subside as the first few weeks pass.

Around the six to eight week mark, you’ll really start to appreciate the changes. Most of the swelling will have resolved, and your incisions will be well on their way to healing. This is when many patients start to feel more comfortable with their new shape.

By three to four months post-surgery, you’ll have a good idea of your final results. You’ll reach the end of your journey around the six to 12 month mark. This is when your scars will have fully matured and faded, and your body will have completely adapted to its new contours.

Is a Body Lift Permanent?

You’ve put in the work to lose weight, and now you’re investing in a body lift to complete your transformation. Naturally, you want to know if your results will stand the test of time.

A body lift provides long-lasting results. The skin and fat cells that are removed during surgery are gone for good, and the contouring can maintain your new proportions even if your weight changes.

However, a body lift can’t stop the aging process or prevent future weight fluctuations. Maintaining a stable weight is critical to maximize the longevity of your surgery. Gaining weight can stretch your skin again, and additional weight loss could result in new areas of loose skin.

Eating a balanced diet and staying physically active will help you maintain your results. Even as aging naturally changes your body, the dramatic improvement from your body lift will still be evident compared to if you hadn’t had the procedure.

Contact Our Board-Certified Body Lift Surgeon in Newport Beach

You’ve conquered the challenge of weight loss — now it’s time to fully unveil the new you. Dr. Nykiel’s expertise in body contouring, combined with his artistic eye and commitment to patient care, makes him one of Southern California’s most sought-after plastic surgeons for body lift procedures.

To learn more about body lift surgery with Dr. Nykiel, schedule a consultation at Butts By Design. We offer in-person appointments as well as virtual consultations you can attend from anywhere. Book your online or call 949-416-0038 to speak with a member of our concierge team.