A posterior body lift—also called a lateral thigh and buttock lift or butt lift—can improve sagging skin and tissue along the outer thighs, hips, and buttocks. While liposuction can effectively remove excess fat and contour the lower body, it may not adequately address loose or sagging skin. In these cases, removing excess skin and lifting the surrounding tissue may provide a smoother, tighter, and more contoured appearance.
Who May Benefit from a Posterior Body Lift?
Sagging of the thighs and buttocks may occur because of:
- Aging
- Significant weight loss
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Genetic factors
- Changes in the underlying supportive tissues
A posterior body lift may also improve the appearance of cellulite related to loose skin and tissue. Cellulite is common—even among people who are not overweight—and may become more noticeable as the skin and underlying tissues lose elasticity over time.
Most patients who need lifting of the lateral thighs and buttocks choose a circumferential body lift because it also addresses loose skin around the abdomen. However, a separate thigh and buttock lift may be appropriate if you have already undergone a tummy tuck or do not need additional abdominal contouring.
Other procedures may be performed at the same time, including:
- Inner thigh lift
- Liposuction
- Buttock augmentation
Buttock Augmentation with a Posterior Body Lift
In some cases, removing and tightening excess skin and tissue can reduce buttock projection, resulting in a flatter appearance. Buttock augmentation may be performed during the same procedure to help restore or enhance volume and projection.
The Surgery
A thigh and buttock lift is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital and typically takes approximately three hours.
Rather than placing an incision on the outer or back portion of the thigh, the incision is made above the buttocks, slightly below the bikini line. It extends around the sides of the body to approximately the level of the hip bones.
During the procedure:
- The skin and underlying tissue—including fat—are elevated.
- The lower skin flap is pulled upward to lift the outer and posterior thighs and buttocks.
- The skin and tissue above the incision are pulled downward to smooth and contour the waist and flank area.
- Excess skin and fat are removed.
- The underlying tissues are secured in their new position with sutures in the fascial layer.
- The incision is closed in three layers and sealed with Dermabond Prineo.
Dermabond Prineo is a medical skin adhesive and mesh system that helps protect and secure the incision. It may allow you to shower the day after surgery, support scar healing, and reduce the risk of infection.
Although the surgical steps are well established, achieving an attractive result requires careful attention to proportion and contour. Your surgeon will sculpt the hips, thighs, and buttocks to create a balanced appearance.
What To Expect After A Thigh and Buttock Lift
Most patients spend at least one night in the hospital after a thigh and buttock lift. Your stay may be longer if additional body-contouring procedures are performed at the same time.
Two drainage tubes—one on each side—are typically placed to prevent fluid from collecting beneath the repositioned skin flaps. A urinary catheter is generally removed in the recovery room, and most patients can get up and use the bathroom on the first night after surgery.
Because the incision extends across the lower back, finding a comfortable position may be difficult for several days. Pain medication will be provided during your hospital stay and for use at home.
Although you may experience pain and limited mobility, you will usually begin walking on the day of surgery. Early walking helps reduce the risk of blood clots in the legs, one of the most serious potential complications after surgery.
During the initial healing period, you should avoid:
- Bending
- Straining
- Heavy lifting
- Vigorous exercise
- Any activity that places stress on the incision
Dr. Boswell will provide detailed postoperative instructions based on your procedure and recovery.
Incision stitches that require removal are generally removed within 7 to 14 days, depending on your healing progress. Most sutures are placed beneath the skin and do not need to be removed.
You may be able to return to work and light daily activities within two to three weeks, provided your job does not involve heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
Swelling and bruising may persist for several weeks, although your improved contour will be noticeable immediately. Final results may take several months to develop as swelling decreases and the skin and underlying tissues settle into their new positions.
Temporary numbness and firmness of the skin are common and generally improve over time. Scars may continue to fade and soften for a year or longer, although they will not disappear completely.
Length of Surgery
Approximately 2-3 hours
Anesthesia
General anesthesia
Hospital stay
Inpatient procedure with at least a one-night hospital stay; a longer stay may be necessary when additional procedures are performed
Common Side Effects
Temporary pain, discomfort, swelling, soreness, bruising, numbness, difficulty moving, and fatigue
Return to work
Typically 1-2 weeks, depending on the nature of your work and your recovery
Scar maturation
Approximately 6-18 months
Expected results
Long-lasting and generally considered permanent unless significant weight gain, pregnancy, or the effects of aging cause recurrent laxity
Risks and Potential Complications
All surgery involves potential risks. The most common complication following a posterior body lift is hematoma, or bleeding beneath the skin, which occurs in approximately 3% to 4% of cases. The risk of infection is approximately 1% to 2%.
Other potential risks include:
- Blood clots in the legs, also called deep vein thrombosis or DVT
- Poor wound healing
- Skin loss
- A prominent or unfavorable scar
- Changes in sensation of the buttocks
- Recurrent skin laxity
Your surgeon will discuss the potential benefits, limitations, and risks of the procedure during your consultation.
Recovery and Activity
You will start walking on the day of surgery and this will be your primary form of exercise during the first month.
General activity guidelines may include:
- First 2 weeks: No lifting greater than 10 pounds
- Weeks 3–4: No lifting greater than 20 pounds
- Around 4 weeks: Elliptical exercise and biking may be permitted
- Around 6 weeks: Unrestricted exercise may be permitted, depending on your healing
These timelines vary from patient to patient. Follow Dr. Boswell’s specific instructions before resuming exercise or other strenuous activities.
Schedule a Consultation for a Posterior Body Lift in St. Louis
If you are considering a posterior body lift (buttock lift or butt lift) in St. Louis, contact BodyAesthetic Plastic Surgery & Skincare Center to schedule a consultation with Dr. Boswell and his experienced plastic surgery team. During your consultation, you can discuss your goals, treatment options, expected recovery, and whether a posterior body lift is right for you.