Will I Have Visible Scarring After a Body Lift?

Several factors can determine how many scars you have and how visible they are after a lower body lift. Dr. Marshall designs incisions — so they are either easily concealed in less visible areas, such as natural skin folds, or covered by undergarments. Dr. Marshall or a member of his staff will provide you with aftercare instructions on how to help your stitches heal correctly — so the scars are flat and, in time, blend with your skin.

What Can I Expect During Body Lift Recovery?

After a lower body lift, you might have moderate bruising and inflammation in and around the treated areas. Appointments for follow-up exams will be necessary so Dr. Marshall can monitor your recovery. It’s important to contact Andre Marshall Plastic Surgery if you notice any signs of infection or have any concerns.

When Should I Consider Getting a Body Lift?

When you’re considering a body lift, schedule a consultation with Dr. Marshall to learn more about the process and when it may be right for you to schedule surgery. You should be at or close to a healthy, stable weight, since losing or gaining a lot of weight after a body lift can alter your results. Before surgery, Dr. Marshall will also complete a physical examination to ensure that you are strong enough to recover properly.

Will I Have to Stay Overnight In the Hospital After Body Lift Surgery?

Typically, Dr. Marshall requires his patients to stay at least one night in an aftercare facility following this procedure. This overnight stay is to ensure your safety and comfort, as your pain is controlled and your health monitored. Depending on the number of areas being addressed and your recovery speed, Dr. Marshall might recommend spending more than one night. During your consultation, Dr. Marshall will discuss facilities where you can stay and how long he estimates you will be there.

Is a Body Lift Painful?

The body lift procedure itself is not painful; Dr. Marshall uses general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Even so, individuals might experience some pain during healing. Our staff provides a comprehensive set of guidelines to reduce discomfort, so our patients can rest and heal fully after the procedure. We may also prescribe pain medicine if considered necessary.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Your body lift will entail a series of visits to Dr. Marshall’s Los Angeles office. Your first appointment will be your in-depth consultation, followed by a preoperative visit and then surgery. Next, you will return for several follow-up sessions, during which the doctor can remove drains, check your healing progress, and address any recovery-related concerns.

How Long Until I See Results?

While you may notice improvements in your physique soon after surgery, it can take several months for all residual swelling and bruising to resolve. Within 3-6 months, you will enjoy a more sculpted, streamlined silhouette and enhanced confidence in your appearance.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Body lift surgery does require a longer incision than many other contouring procedures, but Dr. Marshall places it strategically along the natural beltline so it can be easily concealed beneath underwear or swimwear. While all scars begin as more visible lines, they typically soften, flatten, and fade significantly over time with proper care. Our team will guide you through a personalized scar-management plan—often including silicone therapy, topical treatments, and sun protection—to help your incision heal beautifully. Most patients find the scar a worthwhile and discreet trade-off for the dramatic improvement in their shape and comfort.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Body Lift?

Light walking begins the day after surgery to promote circulation and support healing. However, more strenuous activity—including lifting, running, and core and lower-body workouts—must be postponed to avoid pulling on the incision or disrupting your results. Most patients can resume gentle exercise at 4–6 weeks, with a gradual return to full activity by 8–10 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing. Dr. Marshall will closely monitor your recovery and provide personalized clearance so you can safely return to your fitness routine without compromising your outcome.

Can I Combine a Body Lift with Other Procedures?

Yes. Dr. Marshall is a masterful aesthetic expert who performs a wide range of treatments for multiple areas of the face and body. He can tailor your treatment plan to your needs and go over your options in detail during your introductory Los Angeles consultation.

What Are the Risks Associated with a Body Lift?

Dr. Marshall will discuss the potential complications of a body lift with you in depth during your initial consultation in Los Angeles, CA. By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, you can ensure your procedure is performed safely and effectively, with a focus on artistry and precision. Risks of a body lift can include: Swelling Bruising Bleeding Infection Asymmetry Poor anesthesia reactions Fluid buildup Changes in skin sensation and color

How Do I Find the Best Body Lift Plastic Surgeon Near Me in Los Angeles?

Choosing the right surgeon is essential for a safe procedure and exceptional results. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in post–weight loss body contouring, a strong portfolio of before-and-after photos, and a reputation for personalized, patient-centered care. In the Los Angeles and Beverly Hills area, patients consistently seek out surgeons who combine technical mastery with an artistic eye—qualities that define Dr. Andre Marshall’s approach. As a double board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in complex body lift procedures, Dr. Marshall provides the skill, precision, and aesthetic sensibility necessary to achieve a smooth, sculpted, natural-looking transformation.

Body Lift

Beverly Hills

Introduction to Body Lift

For patients who have lost significant weight but now find that loose, drooping skin folds are obscuring their figures, a body lift is an ideal solution. Body lift candidates are typically individuals who have experienced major weight loss, are in good health, and have realistic expectations about the results. The procedure targets sagging skin in the abdomen, lower back, buttocks, flanks, and thighs, providing 360-degree rejuvenation and sculpting. In addition to weight loss, the aging process can contribute to skin laxity, which may be addressed with a body lift. The ideal candidate for a body lift is someone in stable health, who has maintained a steady weight, and is motivated to achieve long-lasting results. As an experienced, double-board-certified contouring expert serving Beverly Hills and the greater Los Angeles area, Dr. Andre Marshall delivers a customized transformation that boosts confidence, comfort, and quality of life.

Introduction
What Is Body Lift?
Types of Body Lift
Benefits of Body Lift
Candidates for Body Lift
What's the First Step?
What to Expect
Recovery
Cost
FAQs

What Is a Body Lift?

A body lift is a body-contouring surgical procedure that addresses skin laxity and excess tissue by removing excess skin and fat to reshape and lift common areas of the body affected by aging, significant weight loss, and pregnancy. Body lift surgery concentrates on the mid and lower body, including the abdomen, buttocks, lower back, flanks, and upper thighs. Based on the amount of skin to be removed, a circumferential 360-degree body lift incision may be used to achieve maximum skin excision and lift. Double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre P. Marshall is extensively experienced in performing body lift surgery for patients in Beverly Hills, CA. This surgical procedure at Andre Marshall Plastic Surgery is designed to remove excess skin following significant weight loss. Patients should be at or near their goal weight before undergoing a body lift for optimal results. It is important to note that a body lift is not a weight loss surgery, but is often performed after such procedures to address remaining excess skin and tissue, helping people complete their total transformation with a tighter, trimmer figure.

A black and white side-view of a woman in a black crop top and jeans leaning against a wall, showcasing a toned midsection.

Types of Body Lifts

There are several types of body lifts available, each designed to target specific areas and concerns. The lower body lift is one of the most popular options, focusing on the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks. This comprehensive procedure often combines a tummy tuck, thigh lift, and buttocks lift to create smooth, attractive contours across the lower body. For those seeking improvement in the upper body, an upper body lift addresses the upper arms, breasts, and upper back and may include an arm lift, breast lift, or bra line back lift to remove sagging skin and restore a firmer, more youthful look. For patients seeking a complete transformation, a full body lift combines lower- and upper-body lift techniques, providing dramatic results from head to toe. In Beverly Hills, plastic surgeons offer customized body lift procedures tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals, ensuring that every body lift delivers natural-looking, harmonious results.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Body Lift?

The best candidates for body lift surgery in Beverly Hills, CA, at Andre Marshall Plastic Surgery are usually people who have lost significant weight and are facing other cosmetic challenges. These new challenges include loose, wrinkled skin on the buttocks and upper thighs, hanging skin on the abdomen, and saggy skin across the core. If you are a candidate for this surgery, it’s important to have realistic expectations of outcomes, which can be discussed with Dr. Marshall during your initial consultation. First, scarring is a part of this body lift procedure due to the size of the incisions. Second, this procedure does require a longer recovery period than many other elective surgeries, which is why it’s important to plan if you work or have small children. Finally, it’s necessary that you are at or near a healthy weight when considering body lift surgery.

What Are the Benefits of a Body Lift?

People who have a body lift at our Beverly Hills, CA facility may enjoy a number of advantages related to this treatment, like:

Reducing excess skin after losing weight
Rejuvenating and firming wrinkled, saggy skin tissue
Toning the lower body section (such as the upper legs and abdomen) through a lower body lift
Achieving immediate and long-term body lift results, including smoother contours and improved body proportions
Enhancing or restoring the body’s natural shape for a more harmonious and balanced appearance
Transforming your silhouette to reveal a new body and new shape, helping you feel more confident in your physical appearance
Improving your total self-confidence
More confident when wearing tight outfits

What’s the First Step?

Your body lift journey in Los Angeles begins with a straightforward, informative consultation with Dr. Marshall and his team. During this initial visit, the doctor will complete in-depth medical and physical assessments, using this information to begin crafting a one-of-a-kind treatment plan that accomplishes your cosmetic goals. You will learn more about the risks, downtime, and costs of the procedure and have all your questions answered with precision and care. Finally, we will book your surgery date and provide personalized instructions on how to best prepare for your body lift in Beverly Hills, CA.

A blonde staff member and a brunette patient in a black jumpsuit walking together down a modern hallway, engaged in a friendly conversation.

Preparation for Your Body Lift Surgery

Proper preparation is essential for a safe and successful body lift surgery. Patients in Los Angeles are encouraged to reach and maintain a stable weight before scheduling their lift surgery, as significant weight changes after the procedure can affect the final outcome. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, helps optimize healing and long-term results. It’s important to stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications and slow the healing process. Patients should also review their medications with their surgeon, avoiding blood thinners and other substances that may interfere with surgery. Arranging for a trusted friend or family member to assist with transportation and post-surgical care is also recommended. A personal consultation with your plastic surgeon is a crucial step, allowing you to discuss your goals, ask questions, and receive individualized recommendations to ensure you are fully prepared for your body lift journey.

What to Expect on the Day of Body Lift Surgery

Body lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia at our facility in Beverly Hills, CA. The surgery can be lengthy. The incision is commonly placed along the area where a belt would be worn, often following the bikini line and natural creases to minimize visible scarring and achieve a more aesthetic result. This is why it is also known as a circumferential 360° body lift or belt lipectomy. The procedure specifically targets areas of the lower abdomen to improve contour.

After Dr. Marshall carefully makes the incision, he will perform liposuction (if needed) to target stubborn fat deposits, then remove the excess skin. The procedure removes excess fat as well as skin. Then, the remaining skin will be stretched tight and secured with sutures. Compression garments will be worn for several months to help achieve a slimming result and minimize bruising, bleeding, and swelling. After a full body lift, it can take three or more weeks before you can resume your normal activities. A member of our staff will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your wounds to help minimize scarring. Despite the lengthy recovery, the majority of patients feel it is worth it to achieve a tighter body shape and fantastic outcomes.

Dr. Marshall, wearing black scrubs with "A.P. Marshall, MD Plastic Surgery" branding, conducts a consultation with a female patient. He is using a tablet to point out specific details on "before and after" body contouring results.

Body Lift Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Body Lift Care

To support appropriate recovery, you need to wear a post-surgical compression garment and foam. These accessories help with blood flow, improve the contours of your figure, and reduce fluid retention. Dr. Marshall will also insert drains to help decrease postoperative swelling and will remove them around 1-2 weeks after surgery. Swelling and bruising may last for a few weeks after surgery. Most patients can return to a desk job within a few weeks post-surgery. After a body lift, you need around a couple of weeks of rest. Before you leave, our team will give detailed recovery guidelines that will outline info, like:

Walking the day after to keep blood clots from forming
Dealing with side effects
Avoiding strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks
Scar care is an important part of the recovery process to minimize visible scarring and ensure the best possible results.
It is imperative to closely follow post-operative guidance to reduce the formation of scars, support recovery, treat any unwanted symptoms, and guard against infection.

Aftercare Tips for Optimal Results

Achieving the best possible results from your body lift surgery depends on diligent aftercare and following your surgeon’s instructions. After your body lift surgery, wearing a compression garment is essential to support your new contours, minimize swelling, and promote a smooth, youthful appearance. Take all prescribed medications as directed to manage discomfort and reduce the risk of complications. It’s important to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending during the initial recovery period to protect your incisions and support healing. Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated will further aid your recovery and help your body heal efficiently. Regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills are vital, as they allow your surgeon to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and provide ongoing support. By carefully following these aftercare tips, you can enjoy a smooth recovery and long-lasting, beautiful results from your body lift surgery.

How Much Does a Body Lift Cost in Los Angeles, CA?

Costs for body lift surgery in Los Angeles will vary from patient to patient. During your consultation, Dr. Marshall will develop a treatment plan tailored to your goals. Andre Marshall Plastic Surgery accepts many payment methods, including low-interest medical financing, to make your surgical lift easy to afford.

Why Choose Dr. Marshall?

Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA, provides access to today’s most cutting-edge treatment modalities, including the powerful body lift procedure to reduce excess drooping skin after massive weight loss. We understand how frustrating it can be to achieve your weight loss goal yet be left with a new problem – uncomfortable skin folds that obscure your physique and cause irritation and chafing. Our team is helmed by double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall, who uses sophisticated, innovative techniques to deliver the balanced, natural-looking transformation you seek. Dr. Marshall is credentialed by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the American Board of Surgery (ABS), and the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree. He prioritizes your safety at every juncture and provides support and guidance long after you leave the office, resulting in a seamless treatment journey from start to finish.

Body Lift FAQ’S

Several factors can determine how many scars you have and how visible they are after a lower body lift. Dr. Marshall designs incisions — so they are either easily concealed in less visible areas, such as natural skin folds, or covered by undergarments. Dr. Marshall or a member of his staff will provide you with aftercare instructions on how to help your stitches heal correctly — so the scars are flat and, in time, blend with your skin.
When you’re considering a body lift, schedule a consultation with Dr. Marshall to learn more about the process and when it may be right for you to schedule surgery. You should be at or close to a healthy, stable weight, since losing or gaining a lot of weight after a body lift can alter your results. Before surgery, Dr. Marshall will also complete a physical examination to ensure that you are strong enough to recover properly.
Typically, Dr. Marshall requires his patients to stay at least one night in an aftercare facility following this procedure. This overnight stay is to ensure your safety and comfort, as your pain is controlled and your health monitored. Depending on the number of areas being addressed and your recovery speed, Dr. Marshall might recommend spending more than one night. During your consultation, Dr. Marshall will discuss facilities where you can stay and how long he estimates you will be there.
The body lift procedure itself is not painful; Dr. Marshall uses general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Even so, individuals might experience some pain during healing. Our staff provides a comprehensive set of guidelines to reduce discomfort, so our patients can rest and heal fully after the procedure. We may also prescribe pain medicine if considered necessary.
Your body lift will entail a series of visits to Dr. Marshall’s Los Angeles office. Your first appointment will be your in-depth consultation, followed by a preoperative visit and then surgery. Next, you will return for several follow-up sessions, during which the doctor can remove drains, check your healing progress, and address any recovery-related concerns.
Body lift surgery does require a longer incision than many other contouring procedures, but Dr. Marshall places it strategically along the natural beltline so it can be easily concealed beneath underwear or swimwear. While all scars begin as more visible lines, they typically soften, flatten, and fade significantly over time with proper care. Our team will guide you through a personalized scar-management plan—often including silicone therapy, topical treatments, and sun protection—to help your incision heal beautifully. Most patients find the scar a worthwhile and discreet trade-off for the dramatic improvement in their shape and comfort.
Light walking begins the day after surgery to promote circulation and support healing. However, more strenuous activity—including lifting, running, and core and lower-body workouts—must be postponed to avoid pulling on the incision or disrupting your results. Most patients can resume gentle exercise at 4–6 weeks, with a gradual return to full activity by 8–10 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing. Dr. Marshall will closely monitor your recovery and provide personalized clearance so you can safely return to your fitness routine without compromising your outcome.
Dr. Marshall will discuss the potential complications of a body lift with you in depth during your initial consultation in Los Angeles, CA. By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, you can ensure your procedure is performed safely and effectively, with a focus on artistry and precision. Risks of a body lift can include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Asymmetry
- Poor anesthesia reactions
- Fluid buildup
- Changes in skin sensation and color
Choosing the right surgeon is essential for a safe procedure and exceptional results. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in post–weight loss body contouring, a strong portfolio of before-and-after photos, and a reputation for personalized, patient-centered care. In the Los Angeles and Beverly Hills area, patients consistently seek out surgeons who combine technical mastery with an artistic eye—qualities that define Dr. Andre Marshall’s approach. As a double board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in complex body lift procedures, Dr. Marshall provides the skill, precision, and aesthetic sensibility necessary to achieve a smooth, sculpted, natural-looking transformation.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I got a breast augmentation done by Dr. Marshall, and my experience was incredible from beginning to end. He took excellent care of me, asked all the right questions before the procedure, and thoroughly prepared me for what to expect both during recovery and afterward.

Danny D.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Dr Marshall and his team are amazing ! I am so thankful to have had such a perfect experience w my first time getting cosmetic surgery & such a smooth recovery. His team was in constant communication w me throughout my recovery process and always addressed any questions or concerns I had.

Amy O.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

My experience with Dr. Marshall & his team was the best… ( AMAZING ) from the moment my significant other & I walked out of the consultation room we knew HE WAS THE ONE for my mommy makeover.

Bianeth R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Let’s be honest — recovery is hard, surgery is scary, and it can be expensive. Those are facts. BUT I have zero regrets. I’ve never felt so happy and confident with my decision. There isn’t a single thing I would change about my experience with Dr. Marshall.

Love B.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Choosing Dr. Andre P. Marshall for my mommy makeover was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. This experience has been truly life-changing—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.

Brenda
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Best surgeon ever! I can honestly say after doing my research I loved that Dr. Marshall actually showed patients post op selfies and I could not see any visible scars and I felt so much more comfortable after listening to his interviews on podcasts.

Andrea V.

Patient Reviews

Schedule Your Consultation

Dr. Andre P. Marshall invites weight-loss patients to learn more about options for lower-body lift surgery in Beverly Hills, CA. Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery takes pride in working with our patients to reach their final goals. If you have excessive skin and loose folds on the mid to lower sections of your body, you could be a candidate for lower-body lift surgery. Schedule a consultation at our Los Angeles office to learn more.

Schedule a Consultation

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 424 437 3200