What is a back lift?

A back lift describes treatment to contour the upper or lower back. A back lift removes excess skin and underlying fat, smoothing contours and lifting the skin to achieve a tighter, more toned aesthetic. An upper back lift addresses folds and fatty collections of skin of the mid to upper back that may continue onto the sides or upper abdomen.

Upper back lift surgery is often combined with breast or upper (reverse) abdominoplasty procedures. The resultant scar is a thin, inconspicuous line that falls within the bra line. Upper back lift results are also seen with Dr. Shermak’s extended arm lift, which includes removal of tissue along the side of the chest, secondarily reducing excess skin in the upper back.

A lower back lift is a powerful operation often performed in conjunction with abdominoplasty, a thigh lift, and/or outer thigh liposuction that not only removes excess lower back skin but also lifts the outer thigh and buttock area, reducing the torso. This scar is also a thin line that is inconspicuously hidden within the fabric of underwear and bathing suits.

Who is a good candidate for a back lift?

Good candidates for a back lift are men and women in good physical and psychological health who are non-smokers. A back lift is appropriate for patients who have undergone massive weight loss, and for individuals who suffer from loss of skin elasticity due to age, pregnancy or heredity. A back lift may be combined with abdominoplasty, liposuction, a thigh lift or breast surgery to rejuvenate the entire physique. During the initial consultation you will discuss with Dr. Shermak what you would like to improve so she can understand your expectations and determine how to best achieve the desired results.

What is the cost of a back lift?

The cost of your back lift ranges based on your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Depending on the details and complexity of your procedure, the cost of your back lift will range between $8,500.00 and $9,000.

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What is the recovery like for a back lift?

Surgery may be performed as an outpatient or in a hospital setting with an overnight stay. One may experience discomfort, swelling, and numbness. Patients are up and walking within hours of surgery, but require recuperation for several weeks, maybe longer depending upon the extent of the surgery performed. Most resume regular activities and return to work after 3-4 weeks. Drains may remain in place for that period of time. Swelling and numbness may take months to resolve. Typically those undergoing back lift surgery wear a bra or binder to protect their incisions.

Back Lift FAQ

How long does it take to recover from a back lift?

Are there any risks associated with a back lift?

When can I sleep on my back after a back lift?

What are the two types of back lift?

Where are the scars after a back lift?

Can a back lift be combined with other procedures?

How long does a back lift procedure take?

When can I exercise after a back lift?

What type of anesthesia is used during a back lift?

How long does it take to recover from a back lift?

Recovery time after a back lift depends on which type of back lift procedure you have. Recovery after an upper back lift is usually 7-10 days, while recovery after a lower back lift can take three or four weeks or longer.

Are there any risks associated with a back lift?

All surgeries have some risks, such as infection, excess bleeding, scarring and other risks.

When can I sleep on my back after a back lift?

Wait for several days before you sleep on your back after a back lift procedure.

What are the two types of back lift?

The upper back lift sculpts the shape of your upper back, mid back area, and waist. The lower or vertical back lift removes skin and excess fat from your lower back and stomach.

Where are the scars after a back lift?

The scar from an upper back lift is a thin line along your back in the bra area. Vertical back lift scars are thin lines that run from the top of your hip bones up to your arm bones.

Can a back lift be combined with other procedures?

Back lift surgery is often combined with an arm lift, breast lift or augmentation, or a tummy tuck, thigh lift, or outer thigh liposuction.

How long does a back lift procedure take?

Total surgery time varies, but most back lifts take between two and five hours.

When can I exercise after a back lift?

Wait for four to six weeks until you exercise or do anything strenuous again after a back lift.

What type of anesthesia is used during a back lift?

A back lift is performed with general anesthesia.

Scheduling a Consultation in Baltimore

We invite you to call Dr. Shermak’s Baltimore plastic surgery office at 410-324-6592 to schedule your personal, comprehensive consultation today. You may also enjoy browsing our online library of before and after success stories.

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