Back Bra Lift: Contouring to the mid and upper back
Dr. Matthew Peters has a deep understanding of body contouring procedures and the types of challenges people face after significant life events such as massive weight loss. This page provides comprehensive information to help you understand the back bra lift procedure and make an informed decision.
What is a Back Bra Lift?
A back bra lift, also known as an upper body lift or bra line back lift, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the mid and upper back. This procedure can address concerns such as:
- Excess skin and fat in the upper and mid-back area
- Skin folds around the bra line
- In certain cases, this procedure can address excess skin into the arm put region
- Discomfort and skin irritation due to excess skin
This procedure may also help create the appearance of a waistline when excess skin is removed from the mid back area, thus redefining the mid-section of the body.
I consider the back bra lift procedure to be potentially very powerful for a massive weight loss patient in addressing skin that has been left stretched and hanging loose.
– Dr Matthew Peters
It’s important to note that the back bra lift is not a weight loss solution, but rather a procedure that addresses excess skin removal after a massive weight loss.
Is a Back Bra Lift Right for You?
Ideal candidates for a back bra lift are typically:
- Are experiencing loose skin, significant skin folds and/or excess fat around the mid and upper back area, which may also be affecting their ability to do certain activities, the ability to maintain good hygiene in the area or creating rashes or poor clothing fit etc
- Are in good overall physical and mental health
- Have maintained a stable weight for at least 6-12 months
- Are non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes
During your consultation, Dr. Peters will assess your individual needs and discuss whether this procedure is suitable for you.
The Back Bra Lift Procedure: What to Expect
The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes about 2-3 hours depending on the extent of the procedure and if it being combined with other procedures. In very general terms, here’s what you can expect:
- Anaesthesia: The anaesthetist will administer general anaesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
- Incision: Dr Peters will make an incision along the bra line, carefully removing excess skin and fat.
- Skin tightening: The tissue across the mid and upper back area is repositioned – even extending around into the under-arm area if required – and trimmed and tightened for a smoother contour.
- Closing the incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures, and drains may be placed to remove excess fluid, as required.
While scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, Dr. Peters uses advanced techniques to minimise scarring. The resulting scar is typically concealed within the bra line.
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Combining Procedures
In certain cases, a back bra lift may be combined with other plastic surgery procedures. Common combinations include:
- Breast lift or breast reduction
- Brachioplasty (arm lift)
- Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
- Belt Lipectomy
Combining procedures can potentially reduce overall recovery time and costs. However, Dr. Peters will discuss these options with you during your consultation, taking into account your specific goals and medical history.
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Recovery and Results
Recovery from a back bra lift is a gradual process that requires patience and dedication. Dr. Peters and his nursing team spend a tremendous amount of time with each patient to ensure they are ready for the recovery process.
You can discuss any concerns you may have about your recovery during your pre-operative consultations.
Immediate post-op
You will need to stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days as a stand-alone procedure, but potentially 5 to 7 days if a combination of procedures is undertaken.
First week
Rest and limiting your movement is crucial.
Week 2
You will attend a review appointment with the clinic nurse for wound assessment and reinforcement of your tapes. Activity should be limited to only doing things that are right in front of you. Return to work and even driving may be possible, again, only if the movement can be restricted to activities that are right in front of you.
Week 3
You will attend a review appointment with a VPS clinic nurse and your tape will be removed and replaced. Activity may be increased slightly to include slowly bending down to pick things up and stretching upwards gently to put things away. On our medical advice, gentle exercise, such as walking or a stationary bike, may be reintroduced to maintain cardiovascular health.
Week 6
You will attend a review appointment with both with Dr. Peters and a VPS clinic nurse where your tape will be removed and replaced. A continued increase into load bearing activities (ie a gradual return to weight training exercises) may be reintroduced.
12 weeks and beyond
You will attend a review appointment with both with Dr. Peters and a VPS clinic nurse. Provided all is going well, you may resume normal activity.
While you’ll see an immediate change in your back and waistline, final results typically become apparent after several months, as swelling subsides and tissues settle.
Understanding the Risks
Every surgery has general risks, in addition to the procedure specific risks. The risks associated with a back bra lift – and ways in which to minimise them – will be discussed with you during your consultation with Dr. Peters. He will always allow ample time to discuss any concern you may have. You can also reach out to Dr Peter’s clinical nursing team to assist with any question or concerns you may have prior to and after your procedure.
The Australasian Society of Plastic Surgeons details the potential risks and complications and you may read more here
Adhering to recovery guidelines can help minimise certain risks and complications. Ensuring that you closely monitor how you are feeling and notifying the Valley Plastic Surgery team of any concerns is the best way to mitigate your risk of adverse outcomes.
Your Journey Starts Here
If you’re considering a back bra lift, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Matthew Peters. During this appointment, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Discuss your goals and concerns
- Learn about the procedure in detail
- View before and after photos of previous patients
- Receive a personalised treatment plan
- Discuss any questions or concerns you may have around your procedure.
Remember, the decision to undergo any surgical procedure is personal and should be made with careful consideration. We’re here to provide the information and support you need to make the choice that’s best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
During a back bra lift, an incision will be made along the back bra line.
Back bra lift procedures can be performed in conjunction with other body contour procedures. Dr Peters can assess whether this is a suitable option for you in your initial consultation.
An upper back or back bra lift surgery will produce permanent results. However, significant changes in weight after surgery can influence results, as tissue in the upper back region can return. The best way to ensure that you maintain your desired results from your back bra lift surgery is to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine to remain at a stable weight.
Procedures of this nature are not typically covered by Medicare, however, if your back bra lift procedure is considered to be medically necessary, you may be able to cover your costs with Medicare. Your surgery may be considered as medically necessary if the excess skin on the upper back area are causing skin rashes or infections, or significantly interfere with your ability to complete daily tasks. Dr Peters can provide you with more information on how to check your eligibility for Medicare during your initial consultation.
The time duration for a back bra lift, or upper body lift, will be dependent upon the details of the procedure and will vary from individual to individual. If your procedure will be performed in conjunction with additional body contouring procedures, the time will be extended. Generally, the procedure should take about one to two hours to complete.