Circumferential abdominoplasty, also known as a lower body lift or belt lipectomy, is a comprehensive body contouring procedure that addresses excess skin and tissue around the entire midsection: including the abdomen, flanks, waist, lower back, and buttocks – in a single surgery.
This 360-degree approach is specifically designed for patients who have experienced massive weight loss and are left with loose, sagging skin that extends beyond the front of the abdomen to the sides and back. At The Collins Center, Dr. Beth Collins combines her fellowship training in body contouring with over 16 years of surgical expertise to deliver transformative results that restore proportion, improve comfort, and help patients finally see the body that reflects their hard-earned weight loss achievement.
Treatable Areas
- Lower and upper abdomen (front)
- Flanks and love handles (sides)
- Lower back and waistline
- Upper buttocks and gluteal region
- Outer thighs (when combined with thigh lift)
- Separated or weakened abdominal muscles
- Excess skin following massive weight loss
How Circumferential Abdominoplasty Works
Dr. Collins creates a continuous incision that circles around your entire waistline – similar to where a belt would sit, allowing her to remove excess skin and fat from the front, sides, back, and buttocks all at once. This comprehensive approach is far more efficient than addressing each area separately and creates harmonious, balanced contours that look natural from every angle.
During the 4 to 6 hour procedure performed under general anesthesia, Dr. Collins lifts and tightens the underlying tissues, repairs weakened or separated abdominal muscles to strengthen your core, and repositions the remaining skin to create smooth, firm contours. The procedure also provides a natural lifting effect to the buttocks and outer thighs, improving overall body proportion. Multiple surgical drains are placed to prevent fluid accumulation during healing, and you’ll wear a compression garment to support your new contours and minimize swelling. Most patients stay overnight in the hospital for monitoring and comfort, though some less extensive cases may be performed as outpatient procedures.
Whether you need surgical precision, metabolic wellness, or non-surgical refinement, we look at the big picture. Let’s design a unified treatment plan that addresses your health and beauty under one roof.
Results You’ll Love
- Complete 360-degree body contouring in a single procedure
- Removal of significant excess skin and fat from abdomen, back, and flanks
- A dramatically slimmer, more defined waistline visible from all angles
- Natural lifting and reshaping of the buttocks and outer thighs
- Tightened abdominal muscles for improved core strength and posture
- Relief from skin irritation, rashes, and discomfort caused by excess tissue
- Smoother, firmer body contours that look proportionate from every view
- Long-lasting, permanent results when maintained with a healthy lifestyle
Are You a Candidate for Circumferential Abdominoplasty?
- You’ve lost 50 to 100+ pounds and have excess skin around your entire midsection
- You have loose, hanging skin that extends to your sides, back, and buttocks
- You’ve maintained a stable weight for at least 6 to 12 months
- Traditional abdominoplasty won’t address the extent of your concerns
Why Choose The Collins Center
- Fellowship-trained body contouring specialist – Dr. Collins completed specialized training in body contouring procedures and is one of the few surgeons performing advanced body contouring techniques in New England
- Double board-certified plastic surgeon – Board certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery, with training from Emory University, one of the top plastic surgery programs in the country
- 16+ years of surgical expertise – With over a decade and a half of dedicated surgical practice, Dr. Collins brings proven experience and refined technique to complex procedures
- Physician-led care with medical oversight – Every aspect of your treatment is overseen by Dr. Collins, ensuring the highest standard of safety and results grounded in medical science
- Empathetic, patient-centered approach – Dr. Collins’ personal experience with surgical recovery and body transformation enables authentic empathy for the physical and emotional aspects of your journey.
FAQs about Circumferential Abdominoplasty
How long does circumferential abdominoplasty surgery take?
The procedure typically takes 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on the extent of tissue removal and whether additional procedures are being performed simultaneously. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital operating room.
Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
Most circumferential body lift patients stay overnight in the hospital for monitoring and optimal pain management. Some less extensive cases may be performed as outpatient procedures with nursing support at home.
How long is the recovery period?
Initial recovery takes about 2 to 3 weeks, with most patients returning to light office work within several weeks. You can resume normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks, though complete healing and final results may take 3 to 6 months as residual swelling subsides.
Will I have surgical drains?
Yes, multiple drains will be placed during surgery to prevent fluid accumulation and promote optimal healing. These drains typically remain in place for 7 to 10 days following surgery and are removed once drainage decreases to acceptable levels.
What will the scarring look like?
You’ll have a continuous scar that wraps around your waistline, positioned to be concealed by most clothing and swimwear. While this scar is extensive, it’s strategically placed and will fade gradually over 12 to 24 months with proper scar management.
Can I combine circumferential abdominoplasty with other procedures?
Yes, circumferential body lift is often combined with liposuction for enhanced contouring, or with inner thigh lift for comprehensive lower body rejuvenation. Dr. Collins will discuss which combination approach is safest and most effective for your goals.
Are results permanent?
Yes, results are considered permanent as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Significant weight fluctuations or future pregnancies can compromise your results, so this procedure is best performed once you’ve reached your weight loss goals and completed childbearing.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Collins today and discover how circumferential abdominoplasty can help you achieve the complete body transformation you deserve.
