The back lift is a procedure which can produce a slimmer, more defined contour to the back. This procedure may be performed as either a lower back lift or upper back lift and it is able to produce dramatic contour changes in the patient’s shape. The lower back lift technique is often performed as part of the lower body lift; however, these techniques can be performed on their own as well.
With the lower back lift, excess skin and fat are removed from the lower back and the buttocks are lifted. With the upper back lift, excess skin and fat are removed from the upper back and from beneath the bra line area. The back lift is a very powerful procedure that is underutilized by most plastic surgeons today, primarily due to lack of experience. However, in the proper hands, the upper and lower back lift procedures can produce dramatic results that are simply not attainable with any other technique.
Dr. Vitenas performs the back lift at Houston Surgery Center. The procedure is performed with general anesthesia and takes about two hours to complete. The incision for the upper back lift is located within the confines of the back portion of the bra which is worn during the marking phase. This allows the incision and resulting scar to be concealed by the bra. For the lower back lift, the incision runs across the back above the buttocks, allowing for the creation of a natural, slim waist and elevated buttocks.
Following the back lift, patients may experience some degree of swelling, bruising and discomfort. Most patients find that they can return to work within seven to ten days; however full recovery and return to more strenuous activities takes approximately six weeks.
Q – What is the back lift?
The back lift is a surgical procedure in which excess skin and fat are removed from the back to create a slimmer, more defined back contour. The back lift may be performed as a lower back lift which also lifts the buttocks and slims the waist, or it may be performed as an upper back lift which also addresses the area around the bra line.
Q – What should I expect during a consultation for a back lift?
During the back lift consultation, Dr. Vitenas will review your medical history, discuss your goals and answer your questions. You will have an opportunity to view before and after photos of previous back lift patients and view your potential results using computer imaging. Dr. Vitenas and his patient coordinator will discuss the procedure, as well as, reasonable expectations, recovery time, risks, a quote and payment options.
Q – Where does Dr. Vitenas perform back lift surgery?
Dr. Vitenas performs the back lift surgery at Houston Surgery Center, which is located in the same building as Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery.
Q – What type of anesthesia is used for the back lift?
General anesthesia is always used for a cosmetic back lift.
Q – Where are the incisions made for the back lift?
The incision for the upper back lift is made within the confines of the back portion of the bra which is worn during the marking phase, while the incision for the lower back lift is made on the back above the buttocks.
Q – Does the back lift leave scars?
The incisions made during the back lift will leave scars, however they can generally be concealed by a bra for the upper back lift or underwear for the lower back lift.
Q – What is the recovery like after the back lift?
Initial recovery following the back lift takes about seven to ten days, after which time most patients can return to work. Full recovery, including return to exercise and strenuous activities, takes about six weeks.
Q – How long until I be able to return to school or work after the back lift?
Work can usually be resumed within seven to ten days following the back lift.
Q – What are the risks of the back lift?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with the back lift. These may include bleeding, infection, and scarring.
