Torsoplasty

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A Torsoplasty procedure improves the appearance of the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. The operation is performed typically to remove excess skin and fat following massive weight loss. The Torsoplasty procedure combines a Tummy Tuck, Inner Thigh Lift, and Outer Thigh/Buttock Lift. A Torsoplasty procedure is also referred to as a circumferential torsoplasty, central body lift, lower body lift, belt lipectomy, circumferential panniculectomy and circumferential lipectomy. A Torsoplasty is a serious procedure which involves the exchange of one cosmetic problem (loose skin) for another (scars).

One of the best candidates for Torsoplasty surgery is a person who has lost a massive amount of weight, either through Bariatric Gastric Bypass surgery, Gastric Banding or weight loss diet. Such a person may have lost 80-300 pounds, but are left with folds of surplus overstretched skin on their breasts, backs, trunks and thighs. A Torsoplasty procedure is not a surgical treatment for being overweight. Obese individuals who intend to lose weight should postpone all forms of body contouring surgery until they have reached a stable weight. The Torsoplasty procedure ranges from 4-7 hours, and is usually performed under general anesthesia(while you are asleep). The sequence and duration of a Torsoplasty procedure varies according to the needs of the patient, although plastic surgeons typically perform Torsoplasty surgery in three stages. During stage 1 and stage 2, the patient is positioned on his/her side. Excess skin and body fat from the buttocks, hips, back and thighs are then removed from each side. During stage 3, an abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck” is performed to remove surplus skin and fat from the abdomen. The underlying abdominal muscles are exposed and tightened. Loose skin plus localized residual fat is excised from almost the whole of the central body, while weak muscles are tightened. The Torsoplasty procedure typically involves a combination of surgical excision and liposuction. In cases that require the removal of fat, liposuction is performed prior to removing excess skin. Any essential repairs to the abdominal wall (such as hernia repair) usually can be made at the time of the Torsoplasty.

Like all major surgeries, a Torsoplasty procedure requires significant recovery time. Most patients remain in the hospital for one to three nights. Pain and discomfort are first managed with intravenous or intramuscular medications, and later with oral pain medication. A specific dietary plan may be encouraged. Drainage tubes are inserted, which will require personal home care for up to two weeks. A medical compression garment is to be worn at all times except while bathing, which you should keep wearing until your surgeon lets you know it is no longer needed. Dressings are generally removed two days after surgery and showering is allowed at that time.

Restrictions on your activities could include no exercise and no lifting of five pounds or more. Walking is encouraged after surgery; however, further exercise is not recommended until sufficient healing has occurred. Most people require four to six weeks recovery before returning to normal activities, and generally from six to eight weeks before exercising. There cannot be any pressure placed on the treated area. Approximately 75 percent of the swelling dissipates at six weeks and 90 percent at three months weeks. A medical compression garment is to be worn at all times except while bathing, which you should keep wearing until your surgeon lets you know it is no longer needed. Dressings are generally removed two days after surgery and showering is allowed at that time.

A Torsoplasty procedure involves a certain amount of risks and possible complications. These include: bleeding, infection, a change in skin sensation, major wound separation, skin discoloration/swelling, skin sensitivity, scarring, asymmetry, delayed healing, allergic reactions, and seroma (fluid accumulating under the skin). The abdominal scars will appear to worsen during the first weeks or months, and may take up to 18 months before they flatten and lighten in color. The scars never completely disappear, but can be hidden by clothing.

In addition, every procedure has limitations. An individual's choice to undergo a surgical procedure is based on the comparison of the risk to potential benefit. Although the majority of patients do not experience these complications, you should discuss each of them with your Plastic Surgeon to make sure you completely understand all possible consequences of a Torsoplasty procedure.

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