Awake body lift at Age Focus in Long Island, NY, provides a solution for people who want to address loose skin, stubborn fat that has not responded to diet and exercise, and changes in body shape that often appear after major weight loss or pregnancy. Patients frequently pursue this procedure because they want a smoother contour without undergoing traditional general anesthesia, which allows for greater comfort and a quicker return to their daily routines.
An awake body lift is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes multiple areas of the body by removing excess skin and contouring underlying tissues while the patient remains awake with local anesthesia. It is performed using techniques that allow Dr. Gargiulo to address loose or stretched skin in multiple regions during a single session. The approach focuses on improving overall body proportions by carefully refining the treated areas, creating a more balanced appearance through targeted surgical adjustments.
An arm lift focuses on tightening and reshaping the upper arms by removing loose skin and improving the contour so the arms look smoother and more proportionate. The procedure is often chosen by people who have experienced significant weight changes or natural aging that led to visible laxity in the upper arm area.
A breast lift restores a more elevated and natural position to the breasts by reshaping the internal tissue and removing overstretched skin. This approach is used to address concerns related to drooping or loss of firmness that can occur over time, following pregnancy, or due to weight fluctuations.
A tummy tuck improves the appearance of the midsection by removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the underlying structures for a flatter, smoother profile. It is commonly selected by patients who want a firmer abdominal contour after changes from weight loss, aging, or pregnancy.
A thigh lift reshapes the legs by addressing laxity on the inner and outer thighs and removing unwanted fat and skin. This procedure is designed to create a more streamlined silhouette in the thigh region for individuals who notice persistent sagging or irregular contours.
A Brazilian butt lift enhances the shape and volume of the buttocks using a patient’s own fat after the surgeon works to remove fat cells through liposuction. The collected fat is then strategically placed to achieve a fuller and more sculpted appearance.
Preparation for an awake body lift begins with an initial consultation, during which Dr. Gargiulo evaluates the areas affected by hanging skin and discusses the patient’s treatment goals. This meeting helps establish a clear plan based on the patient’s anatomy, medical history, and expectations.
Preparation may include imaging, routine health checks, and guidelines that support a smooth procedure, such as avoiding certain medications and maintaining stable health habits. The process ensures that all details are reviewed in advance, allowing the treatment to be performed safely and efficiently.
An awake body lift is performed using local anesthesia and sedation, which keeps the treated areas numb while allowing the patient to remain conscious and comfortable. This approach provides precise control throughout the procedure, helping to ensure a calm and steady experience without the need for general anesthesia.
During the procedure, Dr. Gargiulo removes excess skin and reshapes the remaining tissue to create smoother and more balanced contours. This step involves tightening and repositioning the underlying structures so the treated areas appear firmer and more proportionate.
An awake body lift often combines techniques for multiple regions, allowing Dr. Gargiulo to address concerns on the arms, abdomen, thighs, or other areas during one treatment session. This coordinated approach helps achieve a cohesive and proportional result by adjusting each area in harmony with the rest of the body.
The first day should be dedicated to rest, allowing the body to heal and adjust to the initial changes. A compression garment is typically worn to support the treated areas and help reduce swelling. Activity is limited, and quiet time at home allows the tissues to begin settling comfortably.
During the first few weeks, patients continue to wear the compression garment and follow gentle movement guidelines to maintain circulation without placing stress on the treated areas. Swelling gradually improves, and minimal downtime is expected, allowing most patients to resume light daily tasks as comfort permits.
In the following weeks, the body heals at a steady pace and mobility increases. Many people feel ready to return to office-based work or routines that do not involve strenuous activity. Swelling continues to lessen, and the treated areas start to take on a more defined appearance.
Throughout weeks 4-6, adherence to aftercare plays an essential role in supporting the healing process. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper hydration and a balanced diet, can aid recovery and promote smoother, long-term results. Gentle activity is encouraged, while vigorous exercise is postponed until cleared by the surgeon.
Long-term recovery progresses gradually as the body heals beneath the surface and the tissues continue to settle into their final position. Swelling may come and go for several months, and subtle refinements in contour become more noticeable over time. It may take up to 12 months for the full outcome to develop as the remaining tissue softens, incisions mature, and the overall shape stabilizes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following ongoing care recommendations helps support lasting results throughout this period.
Candidates for an awake body lift typically share concerns related to changes in body shape that cannot be improved through exercise or weight management alone. These individuals often experience visible tissue laxity after significant life events or natural aging and are seeking a focused surgical approach to refine their contours. Typical candidates include:
Individuals who have experienced massive weight loss
People with significant sagging skin in multiple areas
Those who notice skin laxity due to aging or pregnancy
Individuals who maintain a stable weight
People in good overall health who can follow aftercare instructions
The benefits of an awake body lift include improvements in comfort, body contour, and overall appearance. These advantages often appeal to individuals who want targeted refinement after changes in weight, aging, or pregnancy.
Reduction of skin chafing
Improved shape through the removal of subcutaneous fat
A firmer and more refined body contour
Enhanced self-confidence due to smoother proportions
Natural-looking results that complement existing body structure
The cost of an awake body lift in Long Island, NY, generally ranges from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on the number of areas treated and the complexity of the procedure. This estimate includes fees for the surgeon, local anesthesia, facility costs, and follow‑up care. The exact price depends on each patient’s anatomy and goals.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gargiulo to receive a personalized cost estimate.
Our plastic surgery practice stands out by focusing on creating balanced and natural body contours, utilizing minimally invasive procedures whenever possible. We specialize in helping patients who have experienced significant weight loss and need the removal of excess skin to achieve smoother, more proportionate contours. Attention to detail during each procedure ensures that the final results reflect both aesthetic goals and individual body structure. Due to this careful approach, our patients enjoy outcomes that feel natural, comfortable, and long-lasting.
Yes, many patients choose to combine an upper body lift with lower body areas in a single session to address multiple concerns efficiently. Treatment areas can include the arms, abdomen, outer thighs, and buttocks, allowing for a more comprehensive improvement in body contour while minimizing overall procedure time.
Recovery time varies, depending on the extent of the procedure and the areas treated. Most patients can expect to resume normal activities within several weeks, with gradual improvement in swelling and discomfort over the first few months. Full recovery and final results can take up to 12 months as the body continues to heal and tissues settle.
Full-body contouring that addresses multiple areas is generally safe when performed by a qualified surgeon in a controlled surgical environment. Careful planning and attention to patient health and anatomy help minimize risks while allowing comprehensive reshaping of the body.
Non-surgical treatments can provide some improvement in skin laxity, but they are generally limited in their ability to remove significant excess skin or reshape tissues after losing weight. Surgical intervention remains the most effective method for achieving substantial and lasting skin tightening in these cases.
Dr. Gargiulo is board-certified in anesthesiology and pain management, bringing specialized skills to awake body lift procedures. Careful surgical technique ensures precise contouring and meticulous attention to detail, including the minimization of scars for natural-looking results.
