Also known as a lower body lift, this procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, hips, outer thighs, and lower back in a continuous belt-like fashion.
If you’ve achieved a major weight loss—whether through surgery or lifestyle change—first of all, congratulations. That’s an incredible accomplishment. But many patients come to me after that achievement feeling frustrated or discouraged by the loose, sagging skin that’s left behind. It can hide the results of all your hard work and make it difficult to feel truly confident in your body.
Belt liposuction and post massive weight loss lift surgery are transformative procedures designed to address that very issue. They help remove excess skin and fat, contour your body, and give you the smoother, firmer silhouette you’ve worked so hard for.
Belt liposuction is a specialised form of liposuction that targets the midsection—specifically the abdomen, flanks (love handles), lower back, and sometimes the hips. It’s performed in a 360-degree approach, as though you’re wearing a belt—hence the name.
The goal is to remove stubborn fat deposits around the entire waistline to create a more balanced, sculpted figure. I often use this technique to complement skin removal surgeries, especially for patients who have lost significant weight and want a tighter, more defined shape.
You may be a good candidate for belt liposuction if:
You have localised fat deposits around the waist, flanks, and lower back
You’ve lost weight but still have areas of fat that don’t respond to diet or exercise
Your skin still has reasonable elasticity (although it’s often combined with a lift if there’s loose skin)
You are close to your goal weight and in good overall health
During your consultation, we’ll assess your body and goals to see if this approach is right for you.
The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic and usually takes 2–4 hours. I make small incisions in discreet locations around the midsection and use a thin cannula to gently remove fat from the targeted areas.
Recovery varies depending on whether it’s performed alone or combined with a skin removal procedure. You’ll wear a compression garment afterwards to reduce swelling and help your body adjust to its new shape.
Post massive weight loss lifts—also known as body lifts—are a group of procedures designed to remove loose, stretched skin and reshape the body after significant weight loss. This can include:
Lower body lift (removes skin from the abdomen, hips, and buttocks)
Upper body lift (addresses the chest, back, and upper arms)
Thigh lift
Arm lift (brachioplasty)
Breast lift or augmentation
And sometimes facial rejuvenation, if needed
These surgeries are highly individualised and often combined into stages depending on the extent of skin laxity and your goals.
You might consider one or more body lift procedures if:
You’ve lost a significant amount of weight and are left with hanging or sagging skin
You experience skin irritation or hygiene issues from excess folds
You feel physically uncomfortable or struggle with confidence due to loose skin
You’re in good overall health and have maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months
You’re emotionally prepared for a staged surgical process and realistic about recovery
These procedures aren’t just cosmetic—they’re often the final step in reclaiming your body and health after massive weight loss.
Your surgical plan will be completely tailored to your needs. Some procedures can be combined into one operation, while others may be staged over time. We’ll have an in-depth consultation to decide the safest and most effective approach.
The surgery is done under general anaesthetic and can take several hours, depending on what’s being addressed. You’ll likely need to stay in hospital overnight or longer, and you’ll be given full support from my team throughout your recovery.
The results can be truly life-changing—restoring comfort, improving mobility, and giving you a body that better reflects your hard work and effort.
Recovery will vary depending on the type and extent of surgery performed. Most patients need at least 2–4 weeks off work and should avoid strenuous activity for 6–8 weeks. You’ll need to wear compression garments, attend follow-up appointments, and follow detailed aftercare instructions.
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal in the early stages, but these will gradually improve. My team and I will be with you every step of the way to monitor your healing and ensure the best possible outcome.
Many patients tell me that these surgeries are the final, empowering chapter in their weight loss journey—helping them feel truly at home in their new bodies.
Dr. Guirgis Awad offers a tailored approach, depending on your individual needs and goals. Here are the most common options:
Also known as a lower body lift, this procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, hips, outer thighs, and lower back in a continuous belt-like fashion.
Liposuction can be used around the waistline to contour and refine body shape, often in combination with excisional procedures for optimal results.
Often part of a belt lift, this removes loose abdominal skin and tightens the muscles for a flatter, firmer tummy.
Common after significant weight loss, these procedures address sagging skin in the upper legs and buttocks to restore a smoother contour.
Often performed in the same transformation process, this tightens loose upper arm skin, creating a more toned appearance.
Depending on your goals and the extent of surgery required, procedures can be performed in stages to optimise safety and recovery.
4-6 hours
4-6 weeks
1-2 nights
5-7 days
After 3-4 weeks
After 3-5 days
3-4 weeks
8-12 weeks
These procedures can be life-changing, and understanding the process will help you feel more prepared. Here’s what the journey looks like from consultation to recovery.
During your consultation, Dr. Awad will assess your areas of concern, discuss your goals, and recommend a customised plan that may include liposuction, lifts, or a combination of both.
You’ll receive detailed pre-op instructions including dietary advice, medication adjustments, and general preparation tips to help ensure a smooth procedure and recovery.
The surgery takes several hours under general anaesthetic. It may involve an overnight stay or two depending on the extent of the procedure and your comfort.
You’ll be fitted with compression garments to support your healing. Expect some soreness, bruising, and tightness in the first couple of weeks. Recovery is gradual, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Got questions? You’re not alone. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about these procedures:
It depends on your health and the extent of surgery needed. Some patients are suitable for combined procedures, while others benefit from a staged approach.
Yes, but Dr. Awad takes care to place incisions discreetly and provides scar management advice to help them fade as much as possible over time.
You’ll notice improvements straight away, but swelling takes time to settle. Final results typically appear around 3 to 6 months post-surgery.
You’ll experience some discomfort, but pain relief will be provided. Most patients describe it as manageable and well worth the results.
It’s best to be at a stable, healthy weight before undergoing these procedures. Significant weight changes afterwards can impact your results.
With good skincare and a stable weight, results are long-lasting. Natural ageing will continue, but the improvement in skin tone and contour is dramatic and enduring.

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