Question: What is a flank lift? I am 55, my skin has loosened and no matter what happens, I have sag on the sides. Would it help? What is involved?
Answer:
It sounds as though you are a perfect flank lift candidate. A flank lift is a kind of lower body lift, but a limited one. It restores the natural contour of the waist by removing excess skin and fat going from the side of the lower body to the lower ribs at the back.
You may be a candidate if:
• You lost weight and this area is loose but the rest of the lower torso is ok.
• You are over 50 and have lost a little height – resulting in excess skin and fat that never flattens on its own.
• You are under or over 50, and the flank skin is loose – perhaps from a previous liposuction or sun damage, or both.
Still not sure if you could benefit from a flank lift? Grab your sides and pinch – if there is extra skin and tissue, a flank lift may be the perfect procedure for you.
A flank lift requires general anesthesia, but you can fortunately go home the same day. You will have some pain the first 3 – 5 days, and you will be sore for another 5 days or so. For 2 weeks it is important to refrain from housework – vacuuming, lifting, repetitive motion like hanging up laundry. (you can thank us later for the excuse!)
Additionally, no bending to the sides for 4 -6 weeks and no contact or impact exercise (kickboxing, running) for 6-8 weeks. A compression a garment will be required for about 2 weeks – and longer if you need it to keep comfortable.
In 10-14 days you can go back to work, depending on the work you do and the length of your commute. If you work from home, you will be fit to work part time by 5 – 7 days after surgery.
In general, a flank lift is a great option that will give you an excellent lift with a much easier recovery than a 360 body lift or a tummy tuck.
Just call us for an appointment today – 404.941-3200