What is 360 Body Lift Surgery?

360 Body Lift Surgery vs Traditional Body Lift

When you’re looking into body lift surgeries, one option you might come across is the 360-body lift. This procedure has gained attention for its approach to reshaping and toning the body. It’s designed to address excess skin and tissue that can be left behind after significant weight loss. The 360-body lift isn’t just focused on one area; instead, it targets multiple areas, including the abdomen, waist, hips, and buttocks, all in one go. This makes it a more all-encompassing solution compared to other surgeries that focus on just one area.

In this blog, Sydney Plastic Surgeon Dr Jake Lim will walk you through what this surgery involves, who it’s for, and what you can expect, helping you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you.

Download Dr Lim’s 2024 Excess Skin Surgery Guide

What is a 360 Body Lift?

A 360 body lift, also known as a circumferential body lift, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports fat and skin. It’s an approach that entails removing excess sagging skin and fat while improving the shape of the underlying support tissue. This procedure is unique because it goes all the way around your body – that’s why it’s called ‘360’. It targets several areas, including your abdomen, waist, lower back, buttocks, and thighs, all in one procedure.

Now, how is this different from other body lift surgeries? Well, other body lifts usually focus on one specific area. For example, an Abdominoplasty targets just the abdomen, and a thigh lift focuses on the thighs. But a 360 body lift takes a different approach. It’s like a combination of several surgeries in one. This means you can address multiple areas of concern in a single procedure, rather than having several separate surgeries.

The procedure involves removing a belt-like strip of skin and fat from around the waistline, and then the remaining skin is lifted and tightened. It’s a popular choice for people who have lost a significant amount of weight and are now dealing with excess skin around their midsection and lower body. It’s also worth considering if you’ve noticed significant sagging due to ageing or after pregnancy.

Remember, every person’s body is different, and so are their needs and goals. If you’re considering a 360 body lift, it’s a good idea to have a chat with a qualified surgeon. Dr Lim can provide personalised advice based on your specific circumstances. He’ll help you understand what the surgery can achieve for you and whether it’s the best option considering your overall health and your personal goals.

Characteristics of the 360 Body Lift Surgery

When you’re weighing up your options for body contouring surgery, the 360 Body Lift stands out for a few reasons. It’s not just another procedure; it has features that set it apart from traditional body lifts:

All-Around Contouring: The most standout feature of the 360 Body Lift is that it targets your entire midsection. This includes the abdomen, waist, hips, lower back, and buttocks. Unlike surgeries that focus on just one area, this procedure offers a complete management of your midsection
Comprehensive Approach: This surgery is about more than just removing excess skin or fat; it’s about reshaping and tightening the entire area. It’s a good option if you’ve lost a lot of weight and now have loose, sagging skin around your midsection that you want to address
Customised to Your Needs: Each 360 Body Lift is tailored to the individual. Dr Lim will work with you to understand your goals and design a procedure that helps you achieve the look you’re after

Pros and Cons of 360 Body Lift Surgery

When you’re considering a 360 Body Lift Surgery, it’s essential to weigh up both the positives and the challenges. Like any surgical procedure, it comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Pros of 360 Body Lift Surgery

Comprehensive Body Contouring: One of the biggest advantages of the 360 Body Lift is its all-encompassing approach. It addresses multiple areas – the abdomen, waist, hips, lower back, and buttocks
One-Time Procedure: Rather than having multiple surgeries to address different areas, the 360 Body Lift combines them into one. This means you go through the preparation, surgery, and recovery process just once, which can be more convenient and potentially less costly in the long run
Removal of Excess Skin: Besides improving appearance, removing excess skin can also reduce the discomfort and health issues, like rashes or infections that can come with it
Enhanced Comfort: With the removal of excess skin, many find that they’re more comfortable in their clothes and can engage in physical activities with greater ease

Cons of 360 Body Lift Surgery

Recovery Time: As a complex surgery, the recovery period for a 360 Body Lift can be extensive. You’ll need to take significant time off work and other activities to heal properly
Surgical Risks: Like any major surgery, there are risks involved, such as infection, bleeding, or complications from anaesthesia. Discussing these risks thoroughly with Dr Lim is important
Scarring: This procedure can leave scars around the treated areas. Although they may fade over time, they’re usually permanent
Cost: The 360 Body Lift is often more expensive than more localised procedures due to its extensive nature. It’s also important to consider if your insurance will cover any part of the cost

FAQs about 360 Body Lift Surgery

Can I combine 360 body lift surgery with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes, it’s possible to combine a 360 Body Lift with other cosmetic procedures, such as breast augmentation or facial rejuvenation. Combining surgeries can depend on your overall health, the extent of each procedure, and Dr Lim’s recommendation. Dr Lim will evaluate your specific needs and advise whether combining procedures is safe and beneficial for you.

How long do the results of a 360 body lift last?

The results of a 360 Body Lift can be long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle. However, it’s important to note that natural ageing and life circumstances, like pregnancy, can affect the longevity of the results. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help preserve the surgery’s outcomes.

What kind of support garments will I need after surgery?

After a 360 Body Lift, you’ll likely need to wear a compression garment. This helps to reduce swelling, support the newly contoured areas, and promote healing. Dr Lim will provide specific garment to use and the duration for wearing it.

Are there any dietary recommendations to follow post-surgery?

Following a balanced diet is important after surgery. Eating foods rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can aid in the healing process. It’s also essential to stay hydrated. Dr Jake Lim or a nutritionist can give you a detailed plan tailored to your recovery needs.

How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities?

The timeline for resuming normal activities varies from person to person. Generally, patients can return to light activities within a few weeks, but it may take several months to fully engage in more strenuous activities. Dr Lim will guide you on what you can do and when, based on how your recovery is progressing.

Medical References about 360 Body Lift Surgery

Skin Removal Surgery: Types, Recovery, And What to Expect – Medical News Today
What Are the Risks of Body Lift Surgery? – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Lower Body Lift (Belt Lipectomy) – Cleveland Clinic
Upper Arm Contouring with Brachioplasty after Massive Weight Loss – NCBI
Upper Body Lift – PubMed