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Melbourne

Bra Line Back Lift

A Bra Line Back Lift, sometimes referred to as a posterior body lift, is a surgical procedure designed to address excess skin and fat on the upper and mid-back area. This procedure helps to reshape the appearance along the back, particularly around the bra line.

Why consider Back Lift?

Remove excess skin

Achieve Desired Aesthetics

Alleviate skin chafing & irritation

Scar can be hidden under bra

This procedure can be potentially beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, genetics, or age-related changes in this area. The surgery involves removing excess skin and fat, tightening underlying tissues, and altering the overall appearance of the back.

Our plastic surgeons preform Bra Line Back Lifts as well as other Skin Reduction Surgeries including; Thigh lifts, Arm Lifts/Brachioplasty and Abdominoplasty.

Bra Line Back Lift in Melbourne Addressing Excess Skin after Weight Loss

Substantial weight loss can leave behind excess skin around your upper back and underarm region. Tackling this area can be challenging. This is where a Back lift, specifically a Bra-line back lift, could come into play. A bra-line back lift surgery can be effective in eliminating surplus tissue and altering the upper back. It’s important to note that the scar from this procedure will be more challenging to conceal for men.

Am I a suitable candidate for Bra Line Back Lift surgery?

If you have excess back skin resulting in uncomfortable skin folds, you may find relief from a bra line back lift. Contrary to the name, this procedure is not exclusive to women; it may be suitable for anyone struggling with excess skin folds on their back. You may be a candidate for this surgery if you;

  • Have reached or are close to your goal weight
  • Have been able to maintain a stable weight for the past 6 months
  • Are generally in good health
  • Understand that there will be a scar
  • Can stop smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery, if you are a smoker
  • Can take the required time off work to recover.

What are the Common reasons Why patients choose a Back Lift?

Having back rolls and loose excess skin on your upper back area can be very annoying. Many people who’ve put a lot of effort into losing weight through exercise, diet, or bariatric surgery, still can’t get rid of these stubborn folds and bulges on their back. This can cause embarrassment, skin issues and social distress.  This leads people to avoid being intimate by wearing revealing swimsuits or going shirtless. Luckily, surgery can help. Some advantages of a back lift:

  • It’s a relatively common procedure
  • The results continue to develop gradually during the healing process
  • The resulting scar can be hidden under most bras or swimsuits for women
  • Gets rid of excess skin
  • Skin issues and rashes may be less

How is Bra Line Back Lift Surgery Done?

Back lift procedures are performed in a Private hospital and although the specifics of the surgery will vary from person to person, below are the steps the procedure generally follows:

Anesthesia

Bra line back tuck is performed under general anaesthetic. An anesthetist will give you a combination of medications to ensure you are unconscious and pain free for the duration of the surgery. They will also monitor your vitals throughout the procedure.

Incision

The surgeon places an incision along the bra line area. The precise location and length of the incision depend on the extent of correction and unique anatomy.

Excess Skin Removal

The surgeon removes the excess skin from the upper back through the incision.

Tissue Tightening

After removing the excess skin, the surgeon tightens the remaining skin and underlying tissues.

Closing Incisions

The incisions are closed with sutures, and the surgical area is dressed with bandages.

Drains

Your surgeon may use drains. However, this will be discussed and determined before the procedure.

Drains are thin, flexible tubes that are placed through small incisions near the surgical site. These tubes help to remove excess fluid, blood, and other fluids that can accumulate in the surgical area during the initial stages of healing. Drains are usually removed once the drainage decreases to a certain level, which may vary from patient to patient. Your surgeon will determine the appropriate time for drain removal based on your individual healing progress.

Recovery

After the surgery, you will likely remain in hospital for a day or two for monitoring and observation. Before you are discharged your surgeon will give you a list of post-operative instructions that you must follow. This typically includes;

  • Wearing a compression garment to support healing and reduce swelling
  • Avoiding strenuous activities
  • Attending follow-up appointments
  • Optimal Sleep position
  • Medication schedule
  • And more.

It’s essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for a Bra Line Back Lift and to discuss the procedure in detail. Each individual’s situation is unique, and a personalised surgical plan will be developed.

What to Expect During Recovery from Back Lift surgery?

After surgery, you’re likely to spend one or two nights at the hospital to recover. If drains have been used the surgeon may leave them in for a few more days, and ask you to come back into the practice to have them removed.

During your recovery, you should expect some bruising and swelling, bleeding, and pain along the wound on your back. Your surgeon will prescribe painkillers to help ease discomfort as well as, some antibiotics to prevent infection. You will be given instructions on how you can change your wound dressing and take care of yourself post-operatively.

Avoid showering and getting water on your wound for the first couple of days after surgery. You can usually go back to work 10-14 days depending on the type of work you do. The surgeon will advise this during your consultation. Healing from back lift surgery can be tiring and physically demanding. You will be issued a compression garment to be worn for a designated amount of time – usually 4-6 weeks.

Risks and Complications of Bra line Back Lift Surgery

Bra Line Back Lift surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. It’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of these potential issues before undergoing the surgery. While complications are relatively rare, they can occur. Some of the potential risks and complications associated with Bra Line Back Lift surgery include:

  • Poor/abnormal Scarring
  • Infection
  • Poor Wound Healing
  • Seroma and Hematoma
  • Nerve Damage
  • Anesthesia Complications
  • Asymmetry
  • Delayed Healing
  • Skin necrosis
  • Unsatisfactory Aesthetic Outcome
  • Blood Clots

It’s important to remember that selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon, following pre-operative and post-operative instructions, and maintaining open communication with your medical team can greatly reduce the likelihood of these complications. Your surgeon will discuss these potential risks with you during your consultation and provide guidance on how to minimise them.

For detailed information about the risks and potential complications of a bra line back lift surgery please visit the risks of surgery page.

Bra Line Back Lift Melbourne Cost How much is Bra Line Back Lift Melbourne?

The cost of bra line back lift depends on a number of factors. These factors include the;

  • Hospital where you’ll have surgery
  • Anesthetist fees,
  • Cost of surgical materials
  • Cost of aftercare
  • And, more

For accurate and personalised information regarding the cost of your surgery, it is best to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. After your Surgeon examines you, you will receive an estimation of all costs and information about a Bra Line Back Lift Melbourne Payment Plan.

Does Medicare cover Back Lift Surgery?

Medicare typically does not cover cosmetic procedures, including Bra Line Back Lift surgery, when performed solely for aesthetic reasons. However, there are instances where Medicare may provide coverage or partial coverage if the surgery is deemed medically necessary due to specific health issues.

For example, if excess skin on the back causes significant medical problems such as chronic skin infections, rashes, or other related health concerns, and if these issues can be documented and supported by medical evidence, Medicare could possibly provide coverage for a portion of the procedure. It’s important to note that each case is evaluated individually, and coverage decisions can vary based on the specific circumstances and the interpretation of medical necessity by Medicare.

To determine if your Bra Line Back Lift surgery could potentially be covered by Medicare, it’s recommended to consult with your surgeon and healthcare provider. They can guide you through the evaluation process and help you understand whether your specific case meets the criteria for coverage.

Keep in mind that the guidelines and regulations may change, so it’s essential to stay informed and discuss your options with qualified professionals.

Dr Craig Rubinstein
Dr Broughton Snell
Dr Stephen Kleid
Dr Gary Kode

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001124843 Dr Craig Rubinstein

Dr Craig Rubinstein is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Hawthorn East, Melbourne. With over 20 years of surgical experience especially in all areas of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, but particularly in breast surgery. These include Breast Augmentation and Breast Reduction as well as Breast Surgery Revision.

Furthermore, he believes that surgical customisation, precision planning and technical expertise help him to provide optimal surgical outcomes for his patients.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001190266 Dr Broughton Snell

Dr Broughton Snell is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. His training in Plastic Surgery took place in Australia and the United States of America (USA).

Dr Snell is a fully qualified specialist plastic surgeon having completed his Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He has also spent time following the completion of this qualification gaining further experience and training in the area of craniomaxillofacial surgery, training which he completed in world-renowned centres here and in the United States.

ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Surgeon MED0001052799 Dr Stephen Kleid

Dr Stephen Kleid is an experienced Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon (Otolaryngologist) based in Melbourne with a passion for Septo-rhinoplasty, Septoplasty, as well as, a strong interest in Rhinoplasty Revision.

Dr Kleid trained at Melbourne University, then completed surgical training at various hospitals including Royal Melbourne, Royal Children’s, The Eye and Ear and St Vincents. He worked as a surgeon at the University of Florida Medical school for further experience.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001405964 Dr Gary Kode

Dr Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, with experience in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as non-surgical treatments.

Dr Kode is a member of several organisations, including the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), The International Confederation for Plastic and Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, and he holds a Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

What to do next?

Our Patient Liaison Team can assist with any questions you may have when considering a procedure. You can send in an enquiry form below or call our Melbourne Clinic between 9 am – 5 pm Monday - Friday.

Disclaimer: Results depend on individual patient circumstances and can vary significantly. Results may also be impacted by a variety of factors including your lifestyle, weight, nutritional intake and overall health. Consult your Specialist Plastic Surgeon for details. This information is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your Surgeon.

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