An Upper Body-Lift combines three operations:

  • A breast Lift (mastopexy)
  • An arm lift (brachioplasty)
  • A side chest lift

Dramatic weight loss typically follows bariatric surgeries such as lap-banding or gastric sleeve procedures. Further, massive weight loss can result in breast sag (ptosis) and emptiness, upper arm flabbiness (bat wings or bingo arms) and outer chest wall-axilliary skin looseness and sag.

Following massive weight loss, the usual first priority is addressing skin looseness of the lower body – a lower body-lift (circumferential lipectomy). This entails a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) in the front and an outer thigh lift and buttock lift at the sides and back. This is also known as a circumferential or “belt” lipectomy.

Patients may also have ongoing concerns regarding skin excess and looseness of the upper body and an upper body-lift may be the next step.
An upper body-lift typically also combines a breast lift (mastopexy) with or without breast implants (mammoplasty), along with an arm-lift (brachioplasty) and outer chest wall lift.

  • You are candidate for an upper body-lift if you have/are:

    • Loss a lot of weight either naturally or following bariatric surgery
    • Skin looseness of the arms and around the chest and empty sagging breast
    • In good general health.
    • Skin hangs out in folds beneath your bra at the sides

    The surgery takes around 6 to 7 hours to do and involves a 1 to 2 night hospital stay. 2 to 3 weeks off work are typically required. The recovery of an upper body-lift is far smoother than that of a lower body-lift.

  • Are there any risks?

    • As with any surgery, risks and complications include:
    • bleeding
    • infection
    • wound separation
    • wound healing delay
    • stretched, migrating or asymmetrical scars (keloid scarring rare)

    Further, following massive weight loss, Dr Drielsma will likely discuss upper body-lift, as well as lower body-lift, with you as options.
    **Results may vary for individual to individual

  • NEXT STEP

    NEXT STEP: Book your Initial Consultation

    • Call on 1800 180 777 to arrange your surgeon consultation appointment.
    • A Referral from your GP or specialist is required– you can’t have a consultation without a GP Referral
    • pre-payment is required to book your consultation – refer to our terms and conditions

    What to Bring to your Surgeon Consultation

    • Bring a friend or relative to help discuss the information and consider your choices
    • Take lots of notes and read the documents provided thoroughly
    • You may need to undress for a physical exam so wear simple clothing

    Want more information before scheduling your Surgeon consultation?

    • Request more information about the procedure – call or contact us
    • Organise a phone call with Patient Advisor (FREE)
    • 2 consultations are required before booking surgery

    Individual results may vary. All surgery carries risks.

    You should get a second opinion from an equally qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon before proceeding with surgery.