Body surgery

Slackening of the tissue – caused by significant fluctuations in weight, genetic predisposition or due to aging – can result in surplus skin and tissue. Excess skin on the upper arms, thighs and abdomen can be particularly unwanted. These regions can be firmed and tightened using a targeted procedure. The most commonly requested procedure is an abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck”. This may be desired, for example, by women who have had multiple pregnancies or who have been pregnant with twins. The skin has been stretched so often and so much that it does not return to its original state. Skin tightening procedures can also be helpful following liposuction.

A body lift may be indicated when the individual has excessively loose tissue in various areas of the body at the same time, i.e. on the abdomen, hips, buttocks and thighs. This is frequently the case following significant weight loss.

The aim of an arm lift or a thigh lift is to remove excess skin and fatty tissue, thus firming the skin. If the individual has been losing weight, these procedures should only be considered once a stable weight has been reached.

Facts and figures

Operation

Arm lifts: 1 ½ hours, under general or local anaesthetic
Thigh lifts: 2 to 3 hours, under general or peridural anaesthetic (PDA)

In/outpatient

Arm lifts: Outpatient
Thigh lifts: 2 to 4 days

Post-operative treatment

Arm lifts: Compression garment for 3 to 4 weeks
Thigh lifts: Compression garment for around 4 weeks

Back to school or work

Arm lifts: After 1 week
Thigh lifts: After 2 to 3 weeks

Sport

Arm lifts: Resume after 4 weeks
Thigh lifts: Resume after 4 to 6 weeks

Costs

Arm lifts: CHF 8,000 to CHF 12,000
Thigh lifts: CHF 12,000 to CHF 16,000