Patient satisfaction, body image, and quality of life after lower body lift: a prospective pre- and postoperative long-term survey

Background: Body contouring surgery after massive weight loss remains a fast growing field due to the rising number of postbariatric surgery patients, and it can improve patients' quality of life substantially. Patient expectations in these procedures are very high, but only little is known as to whether these procedures have a long lasting influence on body image, patient satisfaction, and quality of life.

Setting: University hospital, Austria.

Methods: We evaluated 40 consecutive female patients who underwent a lower body lift between 2009 and 2013. Patients took part in a prospective pre- and postoperative questionnaire survey inquiring about their psychological and physical wellbeing. The mean postoperative follow up interval was 61±14 months. We used 2 validated (Body Image Questionnaire and Body Appraisal Inventory) and one self-designed questionnaires (body lift follow-up questionnaire). The postoperative response rate in January 2016 was 72.5%.

Results: Lower body lift significantly reduced dismissive body ratings and increased long-term feelings of attractiveness and self-esteem, and significantly reduced discomfort associated with excess skin. Patients reported feeling happier, more attractive, and more self-confident. The procedure enhanced their physical wellbeing, even years after surgery.

Conclusion: Lower body lift satisfied patients' expectations and improved long-term quality of life. Therefore, it is an essential component in the treatment of patients who have experienced massive weight loss.