Body Lift in Irvine, CA
A body lift removes the loose, excess skin that often remains after major weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. By tightening and re-draping the skin of the abdomen, back, buttocks, hips, and thighs, the procedure refines your new contours so they match the healthier figure you worked hard to achieve. Ideal for patients who are near their goal weight yet bothered by skin laxity, a body lift can restore confidence in and out of clothing.
Expert Surgeons
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Serving Orange County Since 2012
Procedure Quick Facts:
- Duration of Procedure:4–7 hours
- Anesthesia:General
- Recovery:General
- Results Duration:Long-lasting with stable weight
A body lift is a comprehensive contouring procedure that removes excess skin and residual pockets of fat left behind after significant weight loss or pregnancy. By excising the loose tissue and tightening the remaining skin, the surgeon smooths and reshapes the torso, buttocks, hips, and thighs.
During surgery, carefully planned incisions allow the surgeon to lift and reposition underlying tissues, trim away lax skin, and close the area with advanced suturing techniques that support optimal healing. Liposuction is often combined to refine stubborn fatty deposits and enhance definition.
Because a body lift addresses multiple regions at once, patients enjoy a dramatic, balanced improvement in overall silhouette, helping clothes fit better and daily movement feel more comfortable.
If you're considering body lift surgery, South Coast Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through every step. Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your concerns and helps you achieve your aesthetic goals.
- Remove Excess, Hanging SkinA body lift eliminates the loose, redundant skin that can cause chafing, rashes, and self-consciousness after major weight loss. Smoother contours allow you to fully enjoy your slimmer figure.
- Improve Body Proportions and SymmetryBy tightening multiple areas in a single procedure, a body lift creates balanced proportions between the abdomen, waist, hips, buttocks, and thighs for a harmonious silhouette.
- Enhance Comfort and MobilityRemoving heavy folds of skin reduces irritation and makes physical activity, clothing choices, and personal hygiene easier and more comfortable.
- Boost Confidence After Weight LossCompleting your transformation with a body lift helps your outward appearance reflect your hard-earned health achievements, often leading to heightened self-esteem.
- Long-Lasting Results With Stable WeightOnce excess skin is removed, results can be permanent when you maintain a healthy lifestyle, letting you enjoy your new contours for years to come.
- Combine Areas for One Recovery PeriodTreating several regions at once minimizes the need for multiple surgeries, saving time and allowing you to reach your final result more efficiently.
Watch our videos to see real patient results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.
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Eliminates loose skin folds to reveal smoother, more athletic contours.
Reduces skin irritation and hygiene issues caused by excess hanging tissue.
Contours multiple body regions in one procedure for balanced overall results.
Enhances confidence by aligning your appearance with your weight-loss success.
Upper Body Lift
Targets the upper back, breasts/chest, and arms. Excess skin is removed and tissues are tightened to smooth bra-line rolls and restore a toned appearance to the upper torso. Ideal for patients with significant laxity in the arms and back after weight loss.
Lower Body Lift (Circumferential)
Also called a belt lipectomy, this technique removes excess skin around the abdomen, flanks, buttocks, and outer thighs through a belt-line incision. The remaining skin is lifted upward for a flatter abdomen and lifted buttocks, creating dramatic 360-degree improvement.
Staged Total Body Lift
For patients requiring extensive reshaping, the procedure can be divided into two or more operations (for example, lower body lift first, upper body lift later). Staging shortens individual surgery times and can be safer for certain health profiles.
See real results from our patients
Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein are board-certified plastic surgeons with specialized expertise in post-weight-loss body contouring. Their patient-centered approach combines advanced surgical skill with a genuine commitment to helping you feel confident and comfortable through every step of your transformation.
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Beauty Inside-Out
We treat beyond the visible, caring for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every aesthetic treatment is provided with warm and exceptional care to elevate your well-being and confidence.
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Unmatched Predictability
Visualize your potential results with cutting-edge Crisalix 3D imaging, ensuring clarity and confidence from the start of your cosmetic journey. Our transparent planning process covers every detail, from realistic expectations to comprehensive pricing.
Expert Healing
Your personalized care plan doesn't end when you leave the operating room. Adoreal's automated recovery prompts guide you through a personalized healing journey, including 24/7 access to your surgical team to address questions or concerns. Track your aesthetic recovery progress in real-time, receive important reminders, and experience peace of mind knowing that expert support is always available.
Protected Investment
We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranty coverage that protects your aesthetic outcomes long after your final follow-up. Your care includes up to 5 years of medical complication protection, a 2-year satisfaction guarantee for minor adjustments, and lifetime implant monitoring for eligible cases. Combined with ongoing access to your complete medical records and continued support from our team, you can trust that your journey to confidence is backed by expertise, technology, and a genuine commitment to your long-term well-being.
A Customized Approach to Breast Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch
Your consultation is a private, personalized experience designed around your goals.
Our surgeon will also assess individual factors such as skin quality, residual fat deposits, and overall health status, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.
- Your aesthetic goals and target areas
- Details of your weight-loss journey and current health
- Surgical options, incision placement, and staging
- Expected recovery timeline and activity restrictions
- Potential risks and how we minimize them
- Cost estimates and financing options
See Your Future Self
Ideal candidates are healthy adults with significant skin laxity after weight loss who desire smoother contours and can commit to the recovery process. Your consultation will help determine whether a body lift or an alternative treatment best meets your needs.
Ideal candidates are healthy adults with significant skin laxity after weight loss who desire smoother contours and can commit to the recovery process. Your consultation will help determine whether a body lift or an alternative treatment best meets your needs.
In good overall physical health without uncontrolled medical conditions
Stable weight for at least 6 months
Non-smoker or willing to stop before and after surgery
Realistic expectations about results and scarring
Adequate time and support for recovery
Bothered by excess, hanging skin on torso or limbs
Committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle
This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.
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Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment
Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you'd like to see and whether body lift surgery is the right solution for your concerns.
During your consultation, your surgeon will:
• Review your weight-loss history and current health
• Examine areas of excess skin and residual fat
• Discuss incision placement and possible staging
• Explain the recovery process and activity guidelines
• Answer questions about risks, scars, and outcomes
Together, you'll create a surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, with safety and realistic outcomes as the priority.
The Body Lift Procedure
You’ll arrive at our accredited surgical facility and receive general anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
During the procedure:
• Precise incisions are made along predetermined lines
• Excess skin and fat are carefully removed
• Underlying tissues are tightened and repositioned
• Incisions are closed with layered sutures and dressings applied
Compression garments and, if needed, surgical drains are placed to support healing before you are taken to recovery.
Body Lift Recovery Timeline
Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.
Immediately after surgery
You’ll wake in the recovery suite wearing compression garments. Standing and walking with assistance begin the same day.
First few days
• Manage discomfort with prescribed medication
• Empty and record output from drains
• Short, frequent walks to promote circulation
Weeks 1-2
• Drains typically removed within 7-10 days
• Gradual return to desk work if approved
• Continue wearing compression garments 24/7
Weeks 3-4
•Light cardio or stretching introduced
• Swelling and bruising noticeably decrease
You'll receive personalized post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Your Body Lift Results
Body lift results are visible right away, though your torso and thighs will continue to change as swelling resolves and tissues settle.
Early results
Contours appear smoother and skin folds are gone, but swelling and bruising may obscure final shape.
Following weeks
Incisions mature, swelling declines, and definition improves, allowing clothing to fit more comfortably.
Final results
By 6–12 months scars fade, skin tightens fully, and you can enjoy long-lasting, balanced body contours.
With proper care and a stable weight, body lift results can be long-lasting, helping you fully enjoy the benefits of your healthy lifestyle.
- Days 3 - 5
- Week 1 - 2
- Week 2 - 3
- Week 4 - 6
- Month 2 - 3
- Month 4 - 6
- Long time
Body Lift Results and Safety Considerations
Understanding how surgical technique, anatomy, and healing affect body lift results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.
Achieving Natural-Looking Results
Natural-looking results begin with a thorough understanding of your anatomy. By removing only the excess skin and strategically tightening underlying tissues, our surgeons create smooth transitions between treated and untreated areas. Liposuction may be used to blend contours and avoid abrupt changes.
Skin quality, elasticity, and existing stretch marks influence how the tissues respond. Your surgeon will explain what improvements are achievable for your unique circumstances and will design incisions that follow natural body lines to keep results as discreet as possible.
Realistic expectations are key. Swelling, firmness, and scar maturation all evolve over months, and final outcomes depend on consistent weight maintenance, scar care, and healthy lifestyle choices.
Where Are the Incisions?
Incision placement depends on the areas addressed and can often be concealed beneath underwear or bathing suits.
Circumferential belt-line incision around the lower torso
Incisions are carefully planned to follow natural contours and are closed with precision to support proper healing and minimize long-term visibility.
Is Scarring a Concern?
All surgery creates scars, but our meticulous technique, layered closure, and postoperative scar care protocols help scars fade and flatten over time. Most patients feel the trade-off is well worth the improvement in contour.
Scar Healing Timeline
As your body heals, scars will change gradually over time:
Weeks 1-2
Scars may appear red and slightly raised
Months 1-3
Scars typically soften and begin to flatten
Around 6 months
Noticeable fading often occurs
1-2 years
Scars may continue to lighten and become less noticeable
Following post-operative instructions and recommended scar care plays an important role in how scars mature.
Understanding Risks and Safety
Understanding Risks and Safety
Body lift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks to be aware of.
Potential risks may include:
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Infection
• Poor wound healing or skin loss
• Seroma (fluid accumulation)
• Changes in skin sensation
• Asymmetry or contour irregularities
Your surgeon will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, surgical technique, and follow-up care.
Reducing Your Risk
Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe body lift experience include:
• Thorough pre-operative evaluation
• Precise surgical planning tailored to your anatomy
• Surgery performed in a fully accredited facility
• Detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care
By choosing an experienced surgical team and following recovery guidelines closely, most patients heal well and are satisfied with their body lift results.
The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.
Financing options available through:
Trusted by Our Community
4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County
Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.
N. Snoozzz
Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !
About the procedure
What areas can a body lift address?
Depending on your needs, a body lift can treat the abdomen, back, buttocks, hips, flanks, outer thighs, and even the upper arms or chest with an upper body lift.
How long does body lift surgery take?
Surgery times vary with the extent of correction but typically range from four to seven hours. Staged procedures divide the total time into two shorter surgeries.
What type of anesthesia is used for a body lift?
Body lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia so you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
How long is the recovery after a body lift?
Most patients take two to three weeks off work and resume light activity during weeks three to four, with full exercise approval at six to eight weeks.
Recovery & Results
When will I see my final results?
You’ll notice an immediate change in contour, but swelling can take several months to resolve. Final results usually appear between six and twelve months post-op.
Do I have to wear compression garments?
Yes, compression garments support healing, reduce swelling, and improve contour. They are typically worn continuously for the first six weeks, except while bathing.
What are the risks of a body lift?
Risks include bleeding, infection, fluid buildup, delayed wound healing, numbness, and scarring. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail during consultation.
How do you minimize complications?
We perform a thorough pre-operative evaluation, operate in an accredited facility, use meticulous surgical technique, and provide detailed aftercare instructions with close follow-up.
Safety & Risks
Is a body lift covered by insurance?
Most body lifts are considered cosmetic and not covered. Rarely, portions may be covered if medically necessary; our team can help you explore options.
What financing options are available?
We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to offer payment plans that make treatment more manageable.
When can I return to exercise?
Light walking starts immediately, but strenuous exercise should wait until your surgeon clears you, typically around six to eight weeks.
Will I need additional procedures in the future?
As long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, your results can be long-lasting. Some patients choose future touch-ups if aging or weight fluctuations occur.
Cost & Insurance
Is a body lift covered by insurance?
Most body lifts are considered cosmetic and not covered. Rarely, portions may be covered if medically necessary; our team can help you explore options.
What financing options are available?
We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to offer payment plans that make treatment more manageable.
Lifestyle & Long-Term Care
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