Category: Body

Which Procedures Are Included in a Mommy Makeover?

6/15/2020

Having children is one of the most rewarding aspects of life, but it comes with changes that may neither encourage confidence nor feel particularly comfortable. Many of those changes may even prove resistant to diet and exercise, leaving many women to wonder if any solutions exist. Enter the Mommy Makeover, a procedure designed to address the physical changes caused by pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing. Continue reading Which Procedures Are Included in a Mommy Makeover?

Vaser Liposuction vs Traditional Liposuction in Houston,TX

04/15/2020

Liposuction is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in plastic surgery. Traditional methods of liposuction include using a specific cannula (long, hollow tube) to aspirate fat after infiltration of a wetting solution.  Wetting solution contains saline and lidocaine, which is an analgesic.  Traditional Liposuction methods allow surgeons to remove adipocytes (fat cells) and debulk the multiple layers of fat between the skin and the underlying fascia (connective tissue). This requires a certain amount of manual force that needs to be exerted on the part of the surgeon to extract the fat. Continue reading Vaser Liposuction vs Traditional Liposuction in Houston,TX

Five Things to Know About Dr. Ravi’s SMART Tummy Tuck

02/15/2020  

Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is designed to eliminate excess skin and stubborn fat from the belly and waist. This procedure can also be used to reattach abdominal muscles that have become separated due to pregnancy or weight gain, a condition known as diastasis recti.

Dr. Ravi is known for his skill in addressing diastasis recti. Taking time to precisely align each muscle before reattaching and firming helps to produce optimal effect and results. Dr. Ravi’s advanced techniques, combined with his dedication to patient safety and satisfaction have made our practice a popular choice for patients from around the world.

If you are interested in learning how our advanced, individualized tummy tuck approach might benefit you, call 281-242-1061 to schedule a consultation at our Houston office today.

The Tummy Tuck Procedure

There are two types of abdominoplasty: full and mini. Both require an incision just above the pubic area through which Dr. Ravi can remove excess fat, excise unnecessary skin, and access separated abdominal muscles. For a mini tuck, the incision will stop about midway across the abdomen. For a full tuck, the incision will extend from hip to hip.

Through these incisions, Dr. Ravi is able to eliminate stretched skin, tighten muscles, pull loose tissue taught, and remove unsightly fat. Belly button reshaping may take place following fat removal, but before the incisions are closed.

Five Common Questions About Our Tummy Tuck Procedure

What is the downtime following a SMART tummy tuck?

Most patients are able to resume working within two weeks. Jobs that require strenuous physical labor or heavy lifting will need to be avoided for up to six.

Is liposuction included in the tummy tuck procedure?

The SMART Tummy Tuck includes liposuction of the abdomen, waist and flanks, and mon’s area for overall abdominal contouring. Each procedure is tailored to the specific needs of the individual with liposuction being performed only on those areas where it will be useful.

Will surgical drains be necessary after tummy tuck surgery?

It is not uncommon to have one to two drains left in place for up to two weeks following surgery. These allow surgical and bodily fluids to more easily drain from the surgical area, helping to prevent infection and fluid retention. Drains are removed during a postoperative visit as soon as they are no longer needed.

When can I drive after my abdominoplasty procedure?

You will need a ride home from your procedure, but after that, you are free to drive as soon as you are:

  1. Off of all narcotic pain medications
  2. Comfortable operating a vehicle

Don’t rush your recovery. Listen to your body and closely follow our postoperative instructions. Dr. Ravi will work directly with you to help you determine when it is safe to resume normal activities.

How much pain will I be in after tummy tuck surgery?

Due to the special techniques Dr. Ravi uses, including the direct application of pain medication into the abdomen, our patients’ recovery is typically very comfortable. While some discomfort may be inevitable, following Dr. Ravi’s pre and postoperative instructions will help reduce risks of complications and allows for drastically improved comfort after the first few days.

Contact Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics to Learn More

To schedule a SMART tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Ravi, please call Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics at 281-242-1061 today. Located in Houston, we welcome abdominoplasty patients from The Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, and throughout the world.

High-Definition Liposuction

VASER HIGH-DEFINITION LIPOSUCTION BY Dr. RAVI IN HOUSTON, TEXAS

As patients seek out new and improved techniques in the ever-changing landscape of body contouring procedures, several modern techniques have been steadily growing in popularity, including VASER High-Definition Liposuction. Dr. Ravi’s growing education in the field of body contouring allowed him to choose VASER High-Definition Liposuction, which is ultrasound-assisted liposuction, to be an additional tool in his toolbox. This allows Dr. Ravi to get excellent results for very happy patients.

Vaser Lipo Before & After



These before & after photos are from a specific patient. Results may vary. Schedule a personalized consultation with our doctor to learn more.

Dr. Ravi Somayazula is among Houston’s leading plastic surgeons with the opportunity to bring VASER High-Definition Liposuction to patients in the surrounding Texas and Louisiana area. Dial 832-937-3811 today to schedule your VASER High-Definition Liposuction consultation at Body By Ravi! lipo outlines

WHAT IS VASER HIGH-DEFINITION LIPOSUCTION?

Simply put, it’s a way to get much better results than traditional liposuction alone. The application of ultrasound waves to break up and melt away fat before extraction makes VASER High-Definition Lipo different. VASER High-Definition Liposuction is used in conjunction with traditional liposuction techniques. The use of ultrasound technology makes VASER High-Definition Liposuction innovative and unique. The ultrasonic waves zero in on and emulsify fat cells safely without affecting the surrounding connective tissue, veins, and nerves. The treatment has a short recovery window as it causes decreased swelling or post-op bruising. The most exciting fact is that larger amounts of fat can be safely removed during a single procedure.

Patient Testimonial

“I had an amazing experience with Body by Ravi. I did Vaser liposuction, while I was awake. It was completely painless and I’m very happy with my results. Dr. Ravi is very professional, kind & caring. He was constantly checking in on me during the procedure to make sure I was doing okay. I didn’t have much fat to begin with, but he removed the little fat that I had. I would highly recommend him, especially if you’re nervous about going under anesthesia.”


Benefits of Vaser High-Definition Liposuction

Vaser Liposuction logo

  • Safely removes a larger amount of fat
  • Quicker recovery
  • Less bruising and swelling
  • More accurate removal of fat
  • Far less pain
  • Can be performed with both local and general anesthesia
This technique gives Dr. Ravi a more accurate removal of fatty tissue, allowing him to sculpt your body precisely. This results in a figure more in line with desired results. Schedule a Consultation Today

THE VASER HIGH-DEFINITION LIPOSUCTION PROCEDURE

VASER High-Definition Liposuction is generally performed under local anesthesia, however, in some cases, general anesthesia may be required. A local anesthetic fluid will first be applied to the area being treated. Through very small incisions, Dr. Ravi will administer a mix of saline and anesthetic to begin breaking down the fat. Dr. Ravi will then insert a very small probe, the size of a pencil tip, into these incisions. This probe will emit the ultrasonic vibrations. As this occurs the fatty tissue will break down and melt. Finally, a thin cannula will be used to eliminate fat. Dr. Ravi can continue this process until he has achieved the patient’s desired contours. The incisions will be bandaged and a compression garment put in place to prevent swelling or the build-up of fluid.

VASER High-Definition Liposuction has the capability of addressing large areas. For this reason, VASER High-Definition Liposuction is often a good choice for more extensive areas of fatty tissue, such as the abdomen, behind the flanks, and around the navel. The technique gives Dr. Ravi a wide range of movement and precision, also making it an excellent choice for tighter spots like around the knees, neck, chin, and the dreaded turkey neck. VASER High-Definition Liposuction can also be used on areas that have been previously treated with Liposuction in the past to help with unevenness and contour abnormalities.

RESULTS AND RECOVERY FROM VASER HIGH-DEFINITION LIPOSUCTION

Recovery from VASER High-Definition Liposuction is often easier than with other techniques. Most activities can be resumed in as little as one to two days. Depending on the area, a compression garment may need to be worn for the first week to six weeks to decrease swelling and improve results. Since VASER High-Definition Liposuction does not affect healthy tissues, there will be little bruising and minimal discomfort. Swelling will begin to subside and final results will be seen soon after treatment. Vaser lipo on female abdomen for definition

These before & after photos are from a specific patient. Results may vary. Schedule a personalized consultation with our doctor to learn more.

VASER High-Definition Liposuction can achieve smooth and even results for a sculpted, shapely figure. As long as you keep up with a healthy lifestyle, the benefits of VASER High-Definition Liposuction can last for years to come.

YOUR VASER HIGH-DEFINITION LIPOSUCTION CONSULTATION WITH DR. RAVI

To give you the time necessary to fully consider the VASER High-Definition Liposuction procedure, a private consultation appointment will be scheduled at Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. Please plan on your consultation appointment to last an hour or longer. At this time Dr. Ravi can discuss your unique needs and desires. This is your time to have the surgeon examine your areas of concern and answer your questions. Dr. Ravi will use this appointment to carefully explain VASER High-Definition Liposuction, as well as any adjunct techniques and procedures that he recommends to get you to your goals. If VASER High-Definition Liposuction is the right procedure for your needs, Dr. Ravi’s Patient Care Coordinator will create a personalized, in-depth treatment plan to achieve your body contouring results. Vaser lipo before and after - female tummy

These before & after photos are from a specific patient. Results may vary. Schedule a personalized consultation with our doctor to learn more.

Keep in mind that the ideal candidate for VASER High-Definition Liposuction will be a nonsmoker in generally good health. The procedure is designed for isolated areas of fatty tissue and is not a substitute for weight loss. Before committing to the procedure, a patient must display an understanding of VASER High-Definition Liposuction and hold realistic expectations for their results. Not everyone has the same needs so several techniques may be recommended for your individual concerns. Complications from Dr. Ravi’s VASER High-Definition Liposuction are rarely serious. However, when complications do appear, they may include swelling, bruising, drainage, infection, or scarring.

With little downtime, Dr. Ravi’s VASER High-Definition Liposuction is a revolutionary technique that offers patients a quick recovery and exceptional, body sculpting results. Dr. Ravi had the honor and privilege of working alongside and train with the world-leader in body contouring surgery, Dr. Alfredo Hoyos, in Bogata, Colombia as part of the Total Definer Master Class. During this unique time spent learning and perfecting his new skillset, he was able to properly conceptualize and put together procedures in a certain way for each unique patient to get the best results possible. While with Dr. Hoyos, Dr. Ravi was able to even more so tap into his artistic side and learn the nuanced techniques of taking way, keeping and adding fat to really let both the male and female form come to life.

Request a Consultation

DR. RAVI AT HOUSTON’S BODY BY RAVI PLASTIC SURGERY AND AESTHETICS

Woman in bra and jeans, pulling loose skin on her hipDr. Ravi is one of Houston’s most gifted plastic surgeons, board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. An award-winning cosmetic surgeon, he has received a number of local and national awards, including being named as one of Houston’s own Top Docs in H Town Magazine and he was inducted into the 2019 RealSelf Hall of Fame. Dr. Ravi was trained in cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery, with additional studies in hand and burn surgery. Specializing in body contouring procedures, Dr. Ravi has dedicated much of his practice to procedures like liposuction, breast implants, abdominoplasty, and the mommy makeover. His kind bedside manner, combined with his meticulous, artistic skill makes Dr. Ravi, one of Houston’s most sought out plastic surgeons.

The Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics office has been designed for the ultimate in patient pampering as well as confidentiality. The high-tech office ensures our patients recover only in the safest way possible, and its low-stress environment help to keep pre-op jitters to a minimum. Alongside of partner, board-certified physician Dr. Swapna Gopathi, the Body by Ravi Plastic and Anesthetic’s office can blend both surgical techniques with nonsurgical treatments. Dr. Gopathi’s primary role is to meet busy patients with noninvasive techniques and skincare that can provide awesome results with or without surgery.

CONTACT BODY BY RAVI PLASTIC SURGERY AND AESTHETICS

If you have been considering VASER High-Definition Liposuction or any other body contouring procedures, the best place to start is with an in-person consultation at Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. Located on the Katy Freeway, our office is easy to find, centrally located, and not far from the Memorial, Galleria, or Katy area. Reach out to our office to get specific driving directions. To schedule your consultation appointment, please call our office at 281.242.1061 or fill out our contact us form at Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics.

VASER HIGH-DEFINITION LIPOSUCTION FAQ:

  •  What is VASER High-Definition Liposuction?
    VASER High-Definition Liposuction is an alternative to traditional Liposuction. Ultrasound waves are used to break up and emulsify fat before vacuuming it away. This procedure is safe for tissues and results in little bleeding, bruising, or swelling.
  •  Why choose VASER High-Definition Liposuction over traditional procedures?
    Depending on your situation, VASER High-Definition Liposuction may best fit your needs. Benefits of Vaser Liposuction include little pain, bruising, or swelling and a fast recovery. It can also eliminate a larger amount of fatty tissue than some other methods.
  •  Am I a good candidate for VASER High-Definition Liposuction?
    To make a good candidate for Vaser Liposuction you will need to be in generally good health and a nonsmoker. The procedure is designed to eliminate isolated areas of body fat; it is not a weight-loss tool. If you have stubborn body fat that is resistant to exercise and a balanced diet, you may make a good candidate for the procedure.
  • What areas of my body can improve using VASER High-Definition Liposuction?
    Vaser Liposuction makes a good option for patients needing to address large amounts of fatty tissue. The most common areas where it is used include the abdomen, flanks, arms, back, bra rolls and thighs. It is often the treatment of choice for small areas like the chin or face, as well.
  •  When can I return to work after my VASER High-Definition Liposuction procedure?
    There is little downtime necessary after your VASER High-Definition Liposuction procedure. You will be sent home the same afternoon and are often given the green light to return in only a day or two. However, a compression garment may need to be continuously worn for a few weeks.
  •  Are the results from VASER High-Definition Liposuction permanent?
    The results from VASER High-Definition Liposuction can last for years to come. Once fat cells are eliminated from the body, they are gone forever. Unfortunately, if you do not follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly, your existing fat cells will expand, taking away from your new figure.
  •  How much does VASER High-Definition Liposuction cost?
    As with the cost of any plastic surgery procedure, prices vary depending on multiple factors. This includes the area being treated, how much fat will be removed, and what kind of anesthesia will be used (local or general). According to RealSelf.com, the average cost of Vaser Liposuction can start at about $6,000. However, this will be different for everybody. Remember, your satisfaction involves more than a fee.
  • What Is the Difference Between VASER Liposuction and Traditional Liposuction?
    Both VASER lipo and traditional power-assisted liposuction are used to remove stubborn deposits of fat from the body. The difference is in technology. With traditional liposuction, a cannula is used to break fat deposits apart before removal. With VASER, ultrasound technology is used to emulsify fat deposits before their removal, which allows for more complete removal and helps ensure ideal results. VASER also helps to reduce the risk of trauma on surrounding muscle and tissue, and may allow for a shorter recovery period.
  • Are There Any Risks to VASER Liposuction?
    Risks that can accompany any surgery include excessive bleeding, poor reaction to anesthesia, and persistent swelling. These are reduced when you follow all of the pre and postoperative directions provided by our office.

    Risks specific to liposuction include visible scarring, hyperpigmentation, asymmetrical results, and nerve damage. These risks are reduced when you choose to work with an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon who performs liposuction in an accredited surgical facility.

    No procedure is without risks but liposuction is safe for most patients. During your initial consultation, we will provide honest information about your risks along with ways you can help reduce them and improve your recovery experience.
    • Is VASER Liposuction Painful?
      The VASER liposuction procedure is much less painful than traditional liposuction. Some patients can have the procedure performed under local anesthesia alone, though deeper sedation may be needed for certain treatment areas. We will take every care to help ensure your liposuction procedure is as comfortable as possible.

      There may be some slight discomfort in the days following your VASER lipo procedure, but this should subside on its own and be manageable with over-the-counter medications. We will provide additional instructions before your procedure to help keep you as comfortable as possible throughout your recovery period.
      • How Long Does It Take To See Results From VASER Lipo?
        Initial results from VASER liposuction are immediate. Swelling and bruising may obscure your results for a week or two after your procedure, but as you recover your results will become more and more apparent. Most results are finalized within three to six months, though some people may take up to one year to fully materialize.

        • Is VASER Liposuction Painful?
          The VASER liposuction procedure is much less painful than traditional liposuction
          • Will There Be Noticeable Swelling After the Procedure?
            Bruising and swelling are common following VASER lipo. Wearing your compression garment will help reduce swelling. So too will taking several short walks throughout the day while you recover. Bruising should subside on its own.
            • What Is the Best Way to Maintain My Results?
              The best way to maintain your VASER liposuction results is by adopting a healthy and active lifestyle. Choosing a diet that focuses on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding added sugars, simple carbohydrates, and highly processed foods is best. Making sure you get plenty of exercise is essential as well. The CDC recommends adults aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic acidity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly. The more you exercise, the more profound your results will be.

Schedule Your VASER High-Def Liposuction Appointment At Body By Ravi!

Dial 832-937-3811 today or fill out the form in our contact page for your VASER High-Def Lipo consultation with our experienced plastic surgeons. The Body By Ravi team will answer any questions you have and help you determine whether you are a candidate for treatment. We serve Houston, Katy, and the surrounding areas of Texas.

Natural Looking Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer

09/15/2019 
If you desire a larger and shapelier bust but are averse to having foreign objects (breast implants) placed into your body, breast augmentation with fat transfer may be the exact solution you have been looking for. With this procedure, Dr. Ravi uses fat taken from your own body to gently enhance and reshape the breasts, producing results that both look and feel entirely natural.


Continue reading Natural Looking Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer

Get ‘Tite’ with Four Tempting Treatments

05/27/2019 
While most of us are worried about the sudden appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, we tend to forget about the other changes that can also show our age. Healthy stores of fat and collagen disappear, further causing our skin to hang. Even if Crow’s Feet are not yet an issue, skin that has lost its support system will no longer look firm, adding unwanted years onto our appearance.
Continue reading Get ‘Tite’ with Four Tempting Treatments

Houston’s Top Plastic Surgery Procedures to Help You Get Your Summer Body This Winter

01/18/2019
Sweater weather has finally arrived in Houston! But it’s easy to forget that the warm summer months are right around the corner. For this reason, every year most of us end up feeling unprepared for the arrival of bikini season. This year, be proactive. Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics’ board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ravi Somayazula, recommends these top five procedures you can have this winter that guarantees to help achieve your ideal summer figure. Continue reading Houston’s Top Plastic Surgery Procedures to Help You Get Your Summer Body This Winter

4 Need-to-Know Things About BodyTite

9/6/2018

BodyTite® PRO is Houston’s most exciting, minimally-invasive body and skin treatment option available at Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. It may be just the right thing for you! The innovative technology uses radiofrequency waves to tighten and lift drooping skin to restore a more youthful physique. BodyTite offers exceptional results; and when combined with additional techniques, dramatic body contouring results can be experienced. What are the most important things to know about BodyTite? Take a look: Continue reading 4 Need-to-Know Things About BodyTite

Body Lift

Weight fluctuations, poor tissue elasticity, and the normal aging process can all contribute to an accumulation of loose, stretched skin around the midsection. Unfortunately, diet and exercise do little to improve this unsightly skin and fat. Although the abdomen is the most common area of frustration, major weight loss patients may also notice lax tissue appear along the buttocks, thighs, lower back, and upper arms.

To eliminate the stubborn stretched skin and fatty deposits that remain after a large weight loss, Dr. Ravi Somayazula offers the body lift procedure. Also known as a belt-lipectomy, the body lift removes stretched tissue, restoring taut, youthful physical contours. For some patients, this procedure may mark the first time they have experienced a shapely silhouette. Dr. Ravi’s body lift can improve the stomach, waist, flanks, and thighs. Harvard trained and board-certified, Dr. Ravi is committed to bringing a custom-tailored body contouring procedure to every patient, offering long-lasting, life-changing results.

“I applaud all men and women who have worked hard to lose substantial amounts of weight for both health and aesthetic reasons. Unfortunately, they are often left with significant excess skin that causes more embarrassment and unhappiness. Understanding proper anatomy to artistically remove the excess skin to remodel the body is key to helping patients regain their confidence.” – Dr. Ravi Somayazula

Benefits of a Body Lift Procedure:

After a successful major weight loss, many patients are disappointed to find inches of lax skin still remain. This stretched tissue simply cannot ‘snap back’ into shape, as nothing restores the diminished tissue elasticity. Unfortunately, this crepe-like skin can ultimately keep individuals from showing off their new, thinner body in tight clothing or swimwear.

Dr. Ravi’s body lift procedure was specifically designed to meticulously excise this stretched skin, and lift up the remaining skin. For best results, Dr. Ravi can use liposuction to further contour the figure. Additional techniques, such as the brachioplasty, can offer optimal body contouring benefits.

A Body Lift Can:

  • Improve sagging abdominal skin
  • Raise asymmetrical, flat, or low buttocks
  • Lift and smooth lower back
  • Tighten and lift inner and outer thighs
  • Sculpt tissue around the groin

Choosing a Body Lift at Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics:

Dr. Ravi Somayazula is a Harvard trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. Dr. Ravi has extensive experience in the full range of cosmetic breast and body procedures, including Breast Augmentation, Tummy Tuck, and other body contouring techniques such as Liposuction. Bringing a patient-centered practice to Houston, Dr. Ravi is known for taking his time with each client, getting to know their needs and lifestyle before creating an individualized treatment plan. Easily earning his patient’s confidence, Dr. Ravi brings a wonderful, kind bedside manner, creating a trusting relationship with each individual he treats. Dr. Ravi and his outstanding staff of aesthetic processionals work together to achieve the desired short-term and long-term results. For this reason, Dr. Ravi is one of Houston’s most sought-after body contouring surgeons.

The Ideal Body Lift Candidate

The Body Lift was created for those patients frustrated with excess skin and fat along their midsection, lower back, and hips. An ideal candidate will be close to their ideal weight, in good health, and a nonsmoker. Additionally, patients should understand the surgical procedure and hold realistic expectations for their final results. The body lift is intended to reduce excess skin and fat along the stomach, waist, back, and thighs. The technique, however, should not be considered a substitute for weight loss.

Your Body Lift Consultation and Physical Examination

Prior to arranging a Body Lift procedure, a confidential consultation will be scheduled with Dr. Ravi at the Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics office. Potential patients should set aside one to two hours for this appointment, as Dr. Ravi will take his time getting to know the individual, their desires, medical history, and lifestyle. He will discuss the various options and techniques for body contouring, answering any questions along the way. During the physical examination, Dr. Ravi will evaluate the current size, shape, and skin elasticity across the area needing correction. Precise measurements will be taken at this time, helping Dr. Ravi determine the optimal body lift technique and any complimentary procedures that should be recommended.

 

The Body Lift Pre-Op Appointment

Approximately two weeks before the body lift procedure, Dr. Ravi will once again see each patient in his office. During this time, Dr. Ravi and his staff will review what is expected before, during, and after the upcoming surgical procedure. If there are any remaining questions, he will answer them at this time. A set of ‘before’ photographs will be taken, to be compared with the final, ‘after’ pictures taken after the recovery. Dr. Ravi’s patient coordinator will provide any final documents that need to be signed. Finally, Dr. Ravi will provide prescriptions, which need to be filled prior to the day of surgery, including pain and anti-nausea medications and an antibiotic.

Avoid post-op complications by:

  • Stopping aspirin and NSAIDS for a week before and a week after surgery
  • Stopping herbs and supplements for a week prior and week after surgery
  • Stopping smoking four weeks before surgery; do not restart until at least four weeks after surgery
  • Carefully follow all of Dr. Ravi’s recovery instructions and contact the office immediately should any questions arise

The Body Lift Procedure

Dr. Ravi’s Body Lift procedure will be performed at a local, accredited surgical center, under the care of a board-certified anesthesiologist. Depending on the specified techniques included in the body lift, the surgical procedure can take from four to six hours. Many body lift procedures are performed on an out-patient basis, however as needed, Dr. Ravi may suggest an overnight hospital stay for a more comfortable recovery.

 

A thin, circumferential incision is first made, going around the body, across the lower abdomen and above the buttocks. From here, Dr. Ravi will excise the stretched skin and fat. Using liposuction, he will further contour the waist and flanks. Finally, the remaining skin and muscles will be pulled taut at an appropriate position. Sutures are placed for proper healing before a compression garment is put in place. Drains may be used to avoid fluid buildup. In this case, Dr. Ravi will remove drains during the follow-up appointment.

Getting Back to Normal After a Body Lift

The recovery from a Body Lift will take two to three weeks. Every patient will heal at their own pace, and the specific recovery will depend on the number of techniques performed and the extent of each procedure. Although patients are initially tired and sore, most people are feeling well enough to return to work or school in two weeks or less. During the initial recovery period, patient can expect swelling and mild to moderate discomfort. Assistance around the house or with young children is encouraged during this first days of a body lift recovery.

 

Dr. Ravi encourages his patients to walk several times each day, beginning the same day as surgery. Normal physical activities can be slowly added over the next three to ten days. However, strenuous activities and vigorous exercise should be postponed for four to six weeks, or until approval has been granted from Dr. Ravi. During the weeks to follow surgery, follow-up appointments will be scheduled with Dr. Ravi. These are an important part of the recovery process and should not be missed, as Dr. Ravi will keep a close eye on your body’s healing.

The Body Lift procedure is a safe and satisfying surgery when performed by an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ravi. As with any surgical procedure, complications can occur. These include infection, bleeding, and scarring. More serious issues, such as nerve damage, are rare but can occur. Dr. Ravi will carefully go over the chance for complications during the consultation appointment.

Get started with a body contouring procedure with Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics:

The Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics office is located on the Katy Freeway, easily reached from all areas of Houston, including Memorial and Katy. Our state-of-the-art office is both comfortortable and private. Contact a patient coordinator to schedule your body contouring consultation with Dr. Ravi by calling 281.242.1061, or simply fill out our online Contact Us form.

Body Lift FAQ:

  • What is a Body Lift?
    A Body Lift, sometimes referred to as a belt-lipectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to eliminate stretched skin and fatty tissue from the stomach, buttocks, hips, and thighs. During the surgery, Dr. Ravi will excise the lax skin then lift remaining the tissue to create a contoured physique. With a continued healthy diet and routine exercise schedule, the benefits of a Body Lift can be long-lasting.
  • Will, I make a good candidate for a Body Lift?
    If you are interested in eliminating excess, stretched skin and fat around the midsection, then a Body Lift procedure might be for you. The ideal candidate will be in overall good health, close to their ideal body weight, and hold reasonable expectations for the surgical procedure. During a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Ravi, it will be determined if you are a good candidate for the body lift at this time.
  • What kind of scarring can I expect from my Body Lift?
    Dr. Ravi’s Body Lift will utilize a circumferential incision, running around the body, along the beltline or lower abdomen. A scar will remain along the incision line; however, it will be easily concealed under clothing, and over time, may fade.
  • How long is the Body Lift procedure?
    The Body Lift is a custom-tailored procedure, so surgery times will vary according to the individual patient. On average, Dr. Ravi’s body lift procedures will take from four to six hours.
  • When can I return to work after a Body Lift?
    Most of Dr. Ravi’s Body Lift patients are feeling good enough to return to work in two weeks or less. The initial recovery time will vary from patient to patient.