What is a belt lipectomy?

Belt Lipectomy Thailand

A belt lipectomy is a standard surgical procedure to remove the fat and extra skin around the beltline or waist. It is also known as circular abdominoplasty, 360° abdominoplasty or lower body lift. This surgery is usually performed after a person loses a considerable amount of weight due to dieting or after weight loss surgery.

When people gain extra weight, their skin may stretch over an extended period. Once they lose that weight, the skin is already devoid of its elasticity and flexibility to return to its original form. This stretching can lead to excess loose skin (especially in the abdominal area) that may manifest in love handles around the waist or inner thighs. Belt lipectomy will help achieve a more pleasing aesthetic by firming the abdomen, thighs and buttocks.

The surgery will address the buttocks and back to remove loose skin and fat, reducing waist size and resulting in the buttocks and thighs being lifted. Once completed, a "tummy tuck" is performed, which completes the procedure.

The belt lipectomy procedure - what’s involved?

This surgical procedure can be performed through different incision patterns and methods. The surgeon will determine the most appropriate technique for performing a belt lipectomy during your pre-operative consultation.

A belt lipectomy is usually performed under general anesthesia, where the patient is asleep during the operation. In some cases, intravenous sedation (spinal) can be used, in which case the patient will be awake.

Once anaesthetised, the surgeon will begin to proceed through the precise incisions:

  • For lateral thigh or buttock lifting, the incision is made over the outer thigh regions and buttocks circumferentially to allow the removal of extra fat and skin.

  • The surgeon will make an incision across your lower waistline for a tummy tuck from hip to hip. If necessary, another incision can be completed around your navel region. This technique is mainly used to tighten the abdominal muscles and allow the body to contour perfection.

After the procedure, the surgeon may use skin adhesives or sutures to close the incision. After that, he may apply compression wraps or bandages. The operation typically takes 4-5 hours to complete.

Operational Techniques

The operational techniques for performing belt lipectomy can vary from one surgeon to another. The pattern and length of incisions the surgeon will use will depend on several factors, including the amount of excess skin and fat. A common operational technique is to use a “bikini pattern” of surgical excision to tighten the stomach, groin, waist, buttocks and thighs in one procedure. A further incision is made around the body to remove layers of excess skin and fat, followed by repositioning and tightening tissues. The surgeon may also perform liposuction for additional contouring. Stitches will then be placed deep in the underlying tissue to help support and achieve the desired contour. The results of your belt lipectomy will be visible immediately after the surgery. However, it may take around 3-6 months before the final results are seen. Belt lipectomy provides long-lasting results as long as the patient maintains healthy dietary and exercise habits.

How to prepare

    • Eat a healthy, well balanced diet for at least 2 weeks before surgery.

    • Do not wear unnecessary jewellery or perfume on the day of the surgery and do not use a moisturiser.

    • It is essential to quit smoking at least several weeks before the surgery because smoking can slow down the effects of anesthesia and delay the healing process.

    • You should avoid taking aspirin or any medication containing aspirin, any anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplements for two weeks before surgery.

    • You will be asked not to consume any food or drink for 6 hours before the surgery.

    • After the surgery, patients normally spend one night at the hospital and then rest at the hotel for the first 3-4 days.

    • Your assistant will take care of the dressing, bandages, and binders around the waist and abdominal region to provide sustenance and support and reduce discomfort.

    • Take care of the thin, small tube placed under the skin to drain fluid or blood that may ooze out.

    • Take the prescribed pain medications and antibiotics on time.

    • Avoid strenuous exercise, bending, and heavy lifting, as well as putting unnecessary pressure on the wound for the first six weeks.

    • Your surgeon will tell you how soon you can return to your routine activities.