BODYLIFT IN PARIS

WHAT IS A BODY LIFT?

MEDICAL DEFINITION OF THE LOWER BODY LIFT

The bodylift, (also known as body lift or circular lipectomy), is body contouring surgery. The plastic surgeon removes a wide band of skin around the abdomen, lower back, buttocks and outer thighs.

It then tightens the skin to 360° body contouring.

It is a combined surgery: circular abdominoplasty + buttock lift. The lower body lift treats excess skin on the abdominal girdle, saddlebags, sagging buttocks and lateral thighs.

In case of persistent grease, It can also be removed during the same procedure to restore a harmonious silhouette.

This operation is intended for patients who have lost a great deal of weight and whose skin can no longer tighten on its own.

BODY LIFT VS ABDOMINOPLASTY AND LIPOSUCTION: WHAT BODY LIFT DOESN'T DO

The body lift is not a simple liposuction. Indeed, the liposuction mainly removes fat. If the skin is very distended, it remains flaccid after fat suction, and excess skin often persists.

Nor is it a isolated abdominoplasty. Abdominoplasty mainly corrects the tummy. It does not treat the lower back, saddlebags and sagging buttocks.

The body lift acts circumferentially. It combines abdominal dermolipectomy, buttock lift and tightening of the abdominal belt.

It is considered when local surgeries are no longer sufficient to correct overall skin excess.

WHO SHOULD UNDERGO A BODY LIFT?

PATIENTS AFTER MASSIVE WEIGHT LOSS OR BARIATRIC SURGERY (SLEEVE, BYPASS)

The body lift is reserved for patients with significant weight loss. Often after a loss of several tens of kilos, after a bariatric surgery (sleeve, bypass, gastric band) or after a long diet.

The weight is stabilized, but the skin hangs in excess all around the body.
The patients concerned frequently present :

• an abdominal apron covering the pubis,
• a fall of the buttocks,
• a fall on the side of the thighs,
• persistent saddlebags.

You've done «a lot of work» on your weight, but your body isn't keeping up. You want to finish working on your figure.

A consultation with Dr. Djian in Paris will determine whether a body lift is right for you.

SAGGING AND EXCESS SKIN: SELECTION CRITERIA

The decision to recommend a body lift is based on weight stability, skin quality, the amount of excess skin, and the functional discomfort experienced in daily life.

These criteria are assessed during a consultation evaluation, which specifies the following for each patient:

• BMI and overall health,
• the distribution of excess skin and fat across the abdomen, lower back, buttocks, and outer thighs,
• The impact on daily life: moisture buildup in the folds of the skin, restricted movement, and difficulty getting dressed.

The goal is twofold : Confirm the indication for a body lift and verify that the patient is a suitable candidate for this combined surgery.

WHY DO A BODY LIFT AFTER MAJOR WEIGHT LOSS?

AESTHETIC AND FUNCTIONAL OBJECTIVES

The body lift removes excess skin from the abdominal belt and lifts the buttocks. It reshapes the waist, smoothes the lower back, and corrects the abdominal apron and saddlebags. The silhouette gains in harmony and proportion.

Functionally, circular dermolipectomy reduces friction, maceration and irritation in the folds.

Clothes fit better. Shirts become easier to wear. Comfort and mobility often improve.

The body lift allows you to live more comfortably with your body after massive weight loss.

PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF A BODY LIFT AFTER MASSIVE WEIGHT LOSS

After significant weight loss, your body shape changes, but your skin doesn't always keep up. Excess skin around the abdomen, sagging buttocks, or sagging lower back may remain visible, even long after your weight has stabilized.

This discrepancy has concrete consequences: discomfort when getting dressed or in private, avoiding mirrors or changing rooms, a feeling that the transformation is still incomplete despite the efforts made.

A body lift does not replace the work already done to lose weight. It corrects any remaining excess skin to bring the body’s appearance in line with the results achieved, which often has a positive effect on self-confidence and comfort in daily life.

HOW A BODY LIFT WORKS: CONSULTATION, OPERATION, HOSPITALIZATION

PRE-OPERATIVE CONSULTATION BEFORE A BODY LIFT

First consultation :

It is used to assess the after-effects of weight loss. The surgeon examines the abdomen, back, buttocks, thighs, arms and breasts.
He checks that the weight has stabilized and is compatible with the procedure.

In case of abdominal apron, the surgeon can request a prior agreement to cover the costs. A quote is drawn up, including surgical and anesthesia fees.

Second consultation :

• pre-op photos
• validation of treated areas
• answers to last questions
• intervention programming

After bariatric surgery, a nutritional assessment may be recommended to limit risks and optimize healing.

ESSENTIAL PRE-OP INSTRUCTIONS

There are several measures that reduce the surgical risks associated with a body lift, which must be followed before the procedure:

• complete shutdown of the tobacco 1 month before and 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure
• adaptation of the contraception on a case-by-case basis depending on the risk of thromboembolism
• suspension of treatment anticoagulants as advised by a doctor
• advance prescription of a compression garment panty-style

STAGES OF THE BODY LIFT PROCEDURE

The intervention takes place under general anaesthetic.

Surgery lasts an average of 3 to 5 hours, depending on the extent of excess skin and the associated procedures.
The surgeon works on the entire perimeter of the abdominal belt. He removes excess skin from the abdomen, lower back, saddlebags and lateral thighs. He lifts the buttocks and tightens the skin on the stomach.

Complementary liposuction can be performed in cases of persistent excess fat.
Dr. Djian uses absorbable sutures and modern suturing techniques.

A Urgotouch-type laser treatment can be proposed to optimize healing.

At the end of the procedure, a compression bandage is applied. It is removed the following day.

LENGTH OF HOSPITAL STAY AND RETURN HOME

After a body lift, Generally, you should expect to stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days.. We monitor pain, dressings, venous circulation and blood pressure. Pain is usually controlled with simple analgesics.

Early, gentle mobilization. Walking early reduces the risk of phlebitis.
The return home needs to be organized: help with everyday tasks, nursing care for dressings, compliance with instructions.

It is essential to limit certain positions that exert pressure on the scar the first few weeks. It is recommended that you avoid sit at 90° for 3 weeks, to avoid opening the scar on the buttocks.

From check-ups scheduled at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Close follow-up at Dr. Djian's practice ensures a safe recovery.

POST-OPERATIVE RECOVERY AND CONVALESCENCE AFTER A BODY LIFT

POST-OPERATIVE PAIN, SWELLING AND DISCOMFORT

The aftereffects of a body lift are anticipated and addressed as soon as the patient leaves the operating room: a The pain management protocol helps control discomfort during the first few days, normal swelling gradually subsides, and the scar takes on its final appearance between 12 and 18 months.

The discomfort is felt most during changes in position and subsides as the days go by thanks to the prescribed pain relievers. Some bruises may appear, the skin remains taut, and sometimes numb ; fatigue is common, especially after a long weight-loss journey.

Any unusual pain, significant redness, fever, or discharge should be reported to the surgeon.

GIRDLE WEAR AND POST-OPERATIVE CARE

A compression girdle or panty is worn after the operation. It maintains the abdominal wall, supports the circular scar and limits swelling. It is usually worn day and night for several weeks, as recommended by the surgeon.

Dressings are checked and renewed, often by a nurse. Scars must be kept clean and dry.

No bathing/pooling for 1 month.

Avoid the sun on recent scars for 1 year.

Smoking must be stopped, as it greatly increases the risk of disunion and skin necrosis.

In case of doubt, the firm should be contacted promptly.

RETURNING TO WORK AND SPORT AFTER A BODY LIFT

It is possible to return to work as early as 3 to 4 weeks for a sedentary lifestyle, and even more so for a physically demanding job; sports will gradually resume starting on 6 to 8 weeks, with the surgeon's approval.

Returning to exercise begins with a gentle walk, followed by more strenuous activity as tolerated. High-impact sports and intense abdominal exercises should be delayed even further to avoid weakening the circular scar and to protect the skin as it regains its elasticity.

SCARS AFTER A BODY LIFT : LOCATION AND EVOLUTION

SCAR LOCATION AND SHAPE

The body lift scar is circular and low. It's hidden in the panties.

At the front, it passes over the pubis. It continues along the sides, in the hip area.

At the rear, it passes above the buttock line.

This position allows the scar to be concealed in the underwear or bikini line. Circular dermolipectomy also leaves a scar around the umbilicus, due to its transposition.

The navel is preserved and then re-implanted through the tightened skin via a new opening created by the surgeon.

The aim is to make the scars as inconspicuous as possible in relation to the transformation achieved.

EVOLUTION AND QUALITY OF SCARS OVER TIME

Body lift scars evolve over 12 to 18 months.

At first, they are red, sometimes a little thick. They can be itchy.
Over time, they become thinner and fainter.

Draining massages silicone dressings or Urgotouch laser treatment can be suggested to optimize the result.
The sun protection is essential.

Compliance with these instructions significantly improves the final appearance.

BODYLIFT RESULTS: BEFORE/AFTER, TIMESCALES AND FINAL RESULTS

IMMEDIATE VS. FINAL RESULTS

The The results are visible as soon as you wake up, but it's evolving: the silhouette is becoming more defined on 3 to 6 months as the swelling subsides, although the final appearance of the scars can only be assessed between 12 and 18 months.

As soon as I wake up, the abdominal bulge is gone, my buttocks are lifted, and my lower back is less wrinkled, but the tissue remains swollen and firm, and the contour is not yet that of the final result. The skin gradually readapts as the swelling subsides.

Complementary procedures after a body lift

A body lift mainly treats the trunk (abdomen, hips, back, buttocks). Depending on the remaining areas, a course can be completed with :

• an arm lift (brachioplasty)
• inner thigh lift (cruroplasty)
• a breast lift
• liposuction targeted on a persistent area

These procedures are rarely “all in one”. Dr. Djian plans them in stages, according to your priorities, recovery and skin quality.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF THE BODY LIFT

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS OF A BODYLIFT

A body lift involves general risks (hematoma, infection, phlebitis) and specific complications associated with this surgery (seroma, partial scar dehiscence, asymmetries), which can be reduced by a rigorous patient selection and a Supervised postoperative follow-up.

Possible general risks :

• hematoma or bleeding
• infection
• phlebitis (blood clot)
• pulmonary embolism

These risks are reduced by :

• a complete pre-operative check-up
• history analysis (cardiac, respiratory, diabetes, bariatric surgery)
• the right preparation
• wearing compression stockings
• anticoagulant treatment if necessary
• early mobilization after surgery

Complications specific to the body lift :

• seroma (accumulation of lymph)
• partial scar opening
• localized cutaneous necrosis
• temporary sensitivity disorders
• residual asymmetries

In most cases, these conditions are treated with local care, sometimes involving aspiration or minor surgery.

Information is an integral part of the consultation process so that decisions can be made with full knowledge of the facts.

PRICE OF A BODY LIFT IN PARIS: RATES, ESTIMATES AND REIMBURSEMENT

HOW MUCH DOES A BODY LIFT WITH DR DJIAN COST?

The cost of a body lift in Paris with Dr. Djian ranges from €7,000 to €9,000 for cosmetic surgery (€7,000 for reconstructive surgery), with this price varying depending on the amount of excess skin, the duration of the procedure, and any associated procedures (liposuction, buttock contouring, etc.).

*Cosmetic surgery prices are provided for informational purposes only and are not binding. The initial cosmetic surgery consultation at the office in the 16th arrondissement of Paris costs 100 euros.

IS THE BODY LIFT COVERED BY SOCIAL SECURITY?

Coverage is only possible that if the body lift is part of reconstructive surgery. This may be the case in the presence of major weight loss sequelae, often following bariatric surgery, with functional discomfort: maceration, repeated infections, limitation of movement.
The most commonly used CCAM reference is QBFA003 (total circular abdominal dermolipectomy), subject to prior agreement with the Medical Director.

AttentionCosmetic procedures are excluded from reimbursement. Even in the event of agreement, only CCAM procedures are reimbursed.

Additional fees, clinic charges and complementary services are the responsibility of the patient or his/her mutual insurance company.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A BODYLIFT WITH DR. DJIAN IN PARIS

You've lost a lot of weight, but excess skin is still ruining your figure and your everyday comfort? A body lift requires specific expertise, rigorous planning and close follow-up.
Dr Jérémy Djian, plastic surgeon in Paris, In her consultation with each patient, she assesses indications, explains scars clearly and draws up an appropriate quote.

If this sounds like you, you can contact our secretariat for a no-obligation initial consultation, so that we can work together on the next steps in your transformation.

Sources :

French Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery (SoFCPRE).
The Body Lift. Version 5, November 2016.
View the SOFCPRE fact sheet (PDF)

Aftereffects of Weight Loss: The Role of Plastic Surgery.
Swiss Medical Journal. March 18, 2026.
Link to the Swiss medical journal (PDF)