Full Body Lift Surgery: Complete Guide, Recovery, Results & Cost

Full body lift surgery is a comprehensive body contouring procedure designed to remove excess skin and reshape the body after significant weight loss, aging, or pregnancy-related changes. For many patients, especially those who have lost a large amount of weight, a full body lift is not just about appearance—it is about restoring comfort, mobility, and confidence.

In this guide, we explain what full body lift surgery involves, who it is suitable for, what results to expect, how recovery works, and how costs differ across countries such as the USA, Turkey, Iran, and the UAE.

What Is Full Body Lift Surgery?

A full body lift (also called total body lift surgery) is a combination of surgical procedures that remove loose, sagging skin and excess fat from multiple areas of the body. Unlike isolated cosmetic treatments, a body lift focuses on improving the overall contour and proportion of the body.

This procedure is most commonly performed on patients who have experienced massive weight loss, either through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes. When the skin loses elasticity and cannot retract naturally, surgery becomes the only effective solution.

A full body lift does not replace weight-loss methods. Instead, it is a post-weight-loss body contouring surgery aimed at refining the body’s shape once weight has stabilized.

What Does a Full Body Lift Include?

A full body lift is not a single standardized operation. The exact combination of procedures depends on the patient’s anatomy, goals, and medical condition. In most cases, it includes work on both the upper and lower body.

Lower Body Lift

A lower body lift focuses on the midsection and lower torso. It typically addresses:

• Abdomen and waistline

• Hips and flanks

• Buttocks

• Outer thighs

This part of the surgery often involves a circumferential incision around the waist, allowing the surgeon to lift and tighten the skin from multiple angles.

Upper Body Lift

An upper body lift targets areas where skin laxity is common after weight loss, including:

• Upper back and bra line

• Arms (often combined with arm lift surgery)

• Chest area

Upper body lifting helps restore smoother contours and improves how clothing fits.

360 Body Lift Explained

The term 360 body lift refers to a surgical approach that treats the entire circumference of the body, rather than focusing only on the front. This technique is especially effective for patients with loose skin around the waist, back, and buttocks, creating a more balanced and natural-looking result.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Full Body Lift Surgery?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for a full body lift. Proper patient selection is essential for safety and long-term success.

You may be a good candidate if:

• You have stable weight for at least 6–12 months

• You have significant loose or sagging skin after weight loss

• You are in good overall health

• You do not smoke or are willing to stop before surgery

• You have realistic expectations about scars and recovery

Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery often benefit the most, but the procedure can also be suitable for individuals affected by aging or pregnancy-related skin changes.

A detailed consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to assess medical history, body condition, and treatment goals before proceeding.

Full Body Lift Before and After Results

One of the most common questions patients ask is what kind of before and after results they can realistically expect from a full body lift. While results vary from person to person, the overall goal of the procedure is consistent: a firmer, more proportionate body shape with reduced excess skin.

After surgery, patients typically notice:

• Tighter and smoother contours around the waist, hips, and thighs

• Improved body proportions from front, side, and back views

• Reduced skin irritation, rashes, and discomfort caused by loose skin

• Better fit of clothing and increased physical comfort

Initial results are visible once swelling begins to subside, usually within the first few weeks. However, final results may take 6 to 12 months to fully appear, as the body heals and scars mature.

It is important to understand that full body lift surgery does involve permanent scars, but these are carefully planned and positioned to be as discreet as possible. For most patients, the improvement in quality of life outweighs the presence of scars.

Full Body Lift Recovery Timeline

Recovery after a full body lift is gradual and requires patience. Because multiple areas are treated, healing takes longer than smaller cosmetic procedures.

First 1–2 Weeks After Surgery

• Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common

• Pain is usually manageable with prescribed medication

• Limited mobility and assistance may be required

• Compression garments are worn to support healing

1–3 Months After Surgery

• Swelling gradually decreases

• Most patients can return to light activities and desk work

• Walking is encouraged, but heavy lifting is restricted

• Scars begin to settle and soften

Long-Term Healing

• Full recovery can take several months

• Scar maturation continues for up to a year

• Final body contours become more defined over time

Following post-operative instructions closely is essential for minimizing complications and achieving the best outcome.

Pain, Scars, and Risks of Full Body Lift Surgery

Like any major surgical procedure, a full body lift carries certain risks. Choosing an experienced, board-certified surgeon significantly reduces these risks.

Pain Management

Most patients describe post-surgical pain as moderate and temporary. Pain is usually well controlled with medication and gradually improves within the first few weeks.

Scarring

Scars are an unavoidable part of body lift surgery. However:

• Incisions are placed strategically

• Scars fade over time with proper care

• Many patients find scars easy to conceal under clothing

Possible Risks

• Infection

• Delayed wound healing

• Fluid accumulation (seroma)

• Temporary numbness

• Scarring irregularities

A thorough pre-surgical evaluation and proper aftercare help minimize complications.

Full Body Lift Cost: USA vs Turkey vs Iran vs UAE

The cost of full body lift surgery varies significantly depending on the country, surgeon experience, facility standards, and the number of procedures involved.

Approximate cost ranges:

• United States: $15,000 – $30,000

• UAE (Dubai): $12,000 – $22,000

• Turkey: $7,000 – $12,000

• Iran: $5,000 – $9,000

Medical tourism destinations such as Turkey and Iran have become popular due to lower costs combined with experienced surgeons and modern facilities. Patients should always prioritize safety, accreditation, and surgeon qualifications over price alone.

How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Full Body Lift

Selecting the right full body lift surgeon is one of the most important decisions in the body lift journey.

Look for:

• Board certification in plastic surgery

• Proven experience with post-weight-loss body contouring

• Accredited hospitals or surgical centers

• Transparent communication and realistic expectations

• Documented before-and-after cases

A reputable surgeon will focus on patient safety, not sales promises.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Is a full body lift done in one surgery?
In some cases, yes. For safety reasons, others may require staged procedures.

How long do full body lift results last?
Results are long-lasting if weight remains stable and a healthy lifestyle is maintained.

Can a body lift be combined with other surgeries?
Yes, but this depends on individual health and surgical planning.

Is full body lift surgery safe?
When performed by qualified surgeons in proper medical settings, it is considered safe for suitable candidates.

---

 References

 

1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) – Body Lift Surgery

2. Mayo Clinic – Cosmetic Surgery Safety and Recovery

3. National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Post–Weight Loss Body Contouring

4. PubMed – Clinical studies on Body Contouring after Massive Weight Loss