Dr. Orestes Fernández specialist in body contouring
Surgeon specializing in body contouring
Medical license no. 4304469
A leading doctor in body lift surgery.
The doctor sees patients in BarcelonaView medical profile
Body lift: surgery to redefine your silhouette
Thinking about having a body lift?
A body lift removes excess skin from the abdomen, waist and buttocks in a single procedure, and is mainly indicated after major weight loss.
From: 7.500 € VAT not included
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Surgery duration:
4 to 6 hours
Recovery time:
2 to 3 weeks
Anesthesia:
General
Anesthesia:
General
Hospital stay:
Usually 1 to 3 nights
Social life:
2 weeks
Table of contents
What is a body lift?
A body lift is a complex procedure that treats several areas of the body as a whole. It usually includes the abdomen, lower back, flanks, buttocks and outer thighs, although it is always adapted to each patient's needs. The goal of the surgery is not only to remove excess skin. The surgeon repositions the tissues, redefines the body contour and restores a more harmonious structure. This approach makes it possible to achieve natural results, avoiding an artificial or overly tight appearance.
In many cases, especially after bariatric surgery or major weight loss, the body lift becomes the final step in the body transformation process.
Types of body lift and how the right one is chosen
Lower body lift
This is the most common type and focuses on the lower part of the body. It treats the abdomen, lifts the buttocks and improves sagging of the thighs, and is especially indicated for patients who have lost a lot of weight.
Upper body lift
This focuses on areas such as the upper back, arms or chest, where excess skin can also appear.
360° body lift
This addresses the body contour as a whole, with a comprehensive correction that redefines the entire silhouette in a single procedure.
How much does a body lift cost and what does it include?
7.500 €
VAT not included
A body lift at Instituto de Benito starts from €7,500, varying according to the areas included, the technique used, the length of the procedure and the tests and follow-up included, and is adapted to each patient.
What the treatment plan includes:
- Specialist physician's fees
- Fees for the rest of the medical team
- Materials specified in the quote
- Operating room and hospitalization
- Anesthesia
- Private room stay if required
- Medication during the hospital stay
- Wound care with the nursing team
- Follow-up visits with the specialist
- Preoperative tests (blood work, ECG, X-ray, etc.)
What is not included:
- Assessments or clearances from other specialists, if needed
- Medication after hospital discharge
- Post-surgical garments (compression garments, binders, etc.), unless otherwise specified
- Complementary recovery treatments (lymphatic drainage, physiotherapy, laser, etc.)
- Scar care treatments (silicone dressings, laser, etc.), unless otherwise specified
- Staged surgeries or additional areas not covered in the initial quote
- Costs arising from medical complications not attributable to the surgical procedure
- Reoperations or touch-up surgeries not initially planned
- Additional unplanned hospital stays
- Travel, accommodation or meals for the patient and companions
- Sick leave, certificates or additional administrative paperwork
- Any material or procedure not expressly specified in the quote
You can finance this procedure: 12 months interest-free and up to 60 months. See the options on our financing page.
*Prices valid in 2026. The exact price is given after the visit, once the surgeon has assessed your case.
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What is the body lift process like at IdB?
Medical consultation, personalized planning, surgery to remove excess skin and post-op follow-up to ensure a proper recovery.
Assessment and understanding
The process always begins with a detailed medical consultation. In this first visit we assess the degree of skin laxity, the distribution of excess skin and the patient's general condition. This step is key, as it allows us to define a safe and realistic surgical strategy. The initial consultation costs €80. If you cannot travel, the first visit can also be done by video call with the surgeon who would operate on you: it costs €50, which is deducted if you decide to have surgery.
Preparing for the surgery
From there, the procedure is planned individually, taking into account the areas to be treated, the type of incisions and the result being sought. No two body lifts are the same.
The surgery
The surgery is performed in the operating room under general anesthesia and can last several hours, depending on the complexity of the case. During the procedure, excess skin is removed and the tissues are repositioned to rebuild the body contour.
Comfortable recovery
After surgery, a gradual recovery phase begins. During this period, medical follow-up is essential to monitor progress, minimize discomfort and ensure proper healing.
Start seeing yourself the way you want to feel.
After a body lift, the change shows in a firmer, more proportionate and more defined silhouette, where excess skin no longer determines the shape of the body. As the swelling subsides, the tissues gradually adapt to the new contour, revealing a more harmonious and natural result.
Body lift with Synapta®: a more manageable recovery
For years, this surgery has been associated with a recovery marked by a feeling of tightness, swelling and some discomfort in the treated area. However, advances in medical protocols now make it possible to approach recovery from a more advanced perspective.
At Instituto de Benito we apply Synapta®, a protocol designed to support the body through its recovery process after surgery, helping to make the experience more manageable and controlled.
How is recovery after surgery improved?
Beyond the conventional use of medication, this approach focuses on the body's neurophysiological response after surgery. Through specific techniques, it aims to modulate inflammation, reduce tissue tension and improve the body's adaptation to the surgical change.
- Control of tissue tension: After surgery, the tissues reorganize and can create a feeling of tightness. The protocol helps reduce this tension, allowing a more gradual adaptation.
- Improved tissue environment: Tissue oxygenation and drainage are promoted, which helps to reduce initial swelling and optimize the healing process.
- Gradual, functional recovery: The goal is not to speed things up artificially, but to support the body so that recovery is more balanced, allowing you to return to your daily routine gradually and safely.
These protocols are part of a process in which post-operative well-being matters as much as the aesthetic design. Each case is assessed individually to tailor the instructions to each patient.
*Synapta® is included in surgeries performed in Barcelona.
Carlos Alsina
Preparation and recovery after a body lift
Are you a good candidate for a body lift?
A body lift is especially indicated for people who have experienced major weight loss and have excess skin that cannot be corrected with exercise or non-surgical treatments.
It is especially recommended if:
- 01
I have lost a lot of weight and have loose skin on my abdomen and legs
After major weight loss, especially following bariatric surgery or drastic changes, it is common for the skin not to retract. In these cases, a body lift removes that excess skin and redefines the body contour as a whole, improving both shape and everyday comfort.
- 02
My skin is loose and sagging, even though I no longer have excess fat
Some people do not have a significant excess of fat, but they do have a loss of firmness that affects their silhouette. When the skin has lost elasticity and does not respond to exercise or non-surgical treatments, a body lift is the most effective procedure for tightening it.
- 03
After losing weight, my body has lost its shape and proportion
After a major physical transformation, the body often loses structure, with sagging areas that disrupt its overall harmony. A body lift repositions the tissues and restores a more balanced and coherent silhouette.
- 04
The excess skin causes me physical discomfort (chafing, irritation)
Beyond aesthetics, excess skin can cause irritation, chafing or difficulty getting dressed or moving. In these cases a body lift improves both appearance and function.
- 05
My weight is stable but my skin does not improve with diet or exercise
A body lift is indicated when the patient has reached a stable weight and the excess skin still persists. This is key, as the surgery acts on the skin and not on weight, so prior stability improves long-term results.
- 06
I want a real change in my silhouette after a major body transformation
When the goal is not to lose weight but to complete the process of physical change, a body lift becomes the final step. It brings the body transformation process to a close, moving from a slimmer but sagging body to a firm, defined and proportionate silhouette.
Who is not a candidate: contraindications for a body lift
Although a body lift is one of the most effective surgeries for correcting excess skin and improving body contour after major weight loss or significant changes in the silhouette, there are situations in which it is contraindicated or should be postponed. At Instituto de Benito we always assess this during the preoperative medical consultation, above any aesthetic or commercial consideration. A suitable candidate is not defined solely by the desire to have surgery: we assess their state of health, the stability of their weight, their emotional situation and whether their expectations of the results are realistic.
| Contraindicación | Motivo |
|---|---|
| Current pregnancy or active breastfeeding | The hormonal and physical changes of pregnancy and breastfeeding alter tissue tension and can compromise the aesthetic result. They increase certain anesthetic and postoperative risks. Surgery should be postponed until full recovery after childbirth and the end of breastfeeding. |
| Ongoing weight loss or unstable body weight | A body lift is indicated once weight has stabilized. Significant fluctuations afterwards can cause new skin laxity and compromise the results achieved. We recommend maintaining a stable weight for at least 6 months before the procedure. |
| Active obesity or high body mass index | Being significantly overweight increases the risk of anesthetic, thromboembolic, infectious and healing complications. In these cases it is usually recommended to reach a more suitable weight first before considering surgery. |
| Active infection, local or systemic | Any infection increases the risk of surgical wound infection, seromas, delayed healing and postoperative complications. The procedure should be postponed until it has fully resolved. |
| Severe coagulation disorders | These increase the risk of intraoperative bleeding, hematomas and complications during recovery. They require prior hematological testing and assessment. |
| Uncontrolled systemic diseases | Conditions such as poorly controlled diabetes, heart failure, severe lung disease or uncontrolled hypertension increase surgical risk and make recovery more difficult. They must be stabilized before considering the procedure. |
| Active smoking | Nicotine significantly reduces blood flow to the skin, increasing the risk of skin necrosis, wound opening, infections and poor-quality scars. We require patients to stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery. |
| Body dysmorphic disorder or unrealistic expectations | When the motivation for surgery stems from a distorted perception of body image or from expectations that are impossible to meet, surgery will not resolve the dissatisfaction. These cases require specialized psychological assessment. |
| Nutritional deficiencies or malnutrition | These are relatively common in patients after bariatric surgery. A lack of protein, iron, vitamins or minerals compromises healing and increases the risk of complications. They must be corrected before the procedure. |
| Under 18 years of age for cosmetic purposes | Physical development must be fully complete before considering body surgery of this kind for purely aesthetic purposes. |
| Pregnancy planned in the short term | Although it is not an absolute contraindication, a later pregnancy can stretch the skin and tissues again, altering the result achieved. For this reason we recommend completing your family plans before surgery whenever possible. |
| Active autoimmune diseases | Conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma require an individualized assessment together with the treating specialist, as they can affect healing and post-op recovery. |
| Recent abdominal or body surgeries with unresolved complications | Infections, persistent seromas, suture dehiscence or unstable scars must be fully resolved before considering a body lift. |
| Treatment with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs | This is not an absolute contraindication, but it requires adjustment or temporary suspension under medical supervision and coordination with the surgical team to minimize the risk of bleeding. |
| High thromboembolic risk | A history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism or certain clotting disorders requires a specific evaluation and individualized preventive protocols, as a body lift is a long surgery. |
| Lack of psychological readiness or inability to follow post-op care | Recovery requires wearing compression garments, temporarily limiting activities and strict medical follow-up. Patients who cannot follow these recommendations have a higher risk of complications and unsatisfactory results. |
Your transformation doesn't end when you lose the weight
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Our medical team for body lift surgery
With more than 40 years of experience in plastic surgery and an established track record in advanced body contouring, the team has worked with patients ranging from moderate skin laxity to complex cases after major weight loss. This experience shows that each body requires a different strategy, moving away from standard solutions.
Dr. Orestes Fernández specialist in body contouring
Surgeon specializing in body contouring
View medical profile
Dr. Antonio Martínez Murillo, specialist in facial, body, and breast surgery
Surgeon specializing in facial, body, and breast surgery
«Beyond removing localized fat, HD liposuction seeks to redefine the silhouette through precise body sculpting»
View medical profile
Dr. Lucrecia Villanueva body and breast surgeon
Specialist surgeon in body and breast
«HD liposuction represents an evolution in body contouring»
View medical profile
Commitment to the body lift
At Instituto de Benito, the body lift is approached as a highly specialized surgery, following protocols aligned with international standards in plastic surgery.
The medical team has extensive experience in complex body surgery, including post-bariatric patients, which allows each case to be approached in a precise and personalized way.
Safety is not limited to the operating room. It includes a thorough preoperative evaluation, detailed planning of the procedure and structured follow-up after surgery, all of which influence safety and the stability of the result over time.
Where to have body lift surgery
Book your body lift consultation
The first step is not surgery: it is a consultation with the surgeon who would perform your procedure. They will assess your case, answer your questions and, after the visit, give you the exact price.
The first consultation costs €80, which is deducted from the cost of surgery if you decide to have your procedure with us. You can also call us.
Related treatments
Frequently asked questions about the body lift
Is a body lift the only way to get rid of loose skin after weight loss?
When there is excess skin after major weight loss, non-surgical treatments are usually not enough. A body lift is the most effective procedure for removing it and redefining the body contour.
How long does it take to recover from a body lift and get back to my routine?
Most patients can resume light activity in 2–3 weeks, although full recovery is gradual and depends on each case and the type of procedure performed.
Are body lift results visible right away or do they take time to show?
A change is already visible after surgery, but the real result takes shape over time, as the swelling goes down and the tissues adapt to the new contour.
Are body lift scars very visible or can they be hidden?
Scars are part of the surgery, but they are strategically planned to be as discreet as possible and to improve favorably over time.
Is a body lift a very invasive or dangerous surgery?
It is a complex surgery that must be performed by specialists and after a proper prior assessment. When carried out in an appropriate setting and with medical follow-up, it is a safe procedure.
What happens if I gain weight after a body lift?
The result can be affected by significant weight changes. That is why it is recommended to have the surgery once your weight is stable.
Can a body lift be combined with other surgeries in the same procedure?
Yes, in many cases it is combined with liposuction or other procedures to improve the result, as long as it is safe for the patient.
Will I feel a lot of tightness or restricted movement after surgery?
It is normal to feel tightness in the first few days, as the skin has been tightened and the tissues are adapting. This sensation gradually eases as you recover.
How long do I have to wear a compression garment after a body lift?
It depends on each case, but it is usually recommended for several weeks to help the tissues adapt properly and to support your progress.
Does a body lift only change appearance or does it also improve everyday comfort?
In addition to the aesthetic improvement, many patients notice greater comfort when moving, getting dressed or carrying out everyday activities, especially if they previously had excess skin.
Risks and possible side effects of a body lift
One of the reasons the body lift has become established as one of the most effective surgeries for patients who have experienced major weight loss is its ability to significantly improve body contour and quality of life. However, it is a complex and extensive procedure that requires rigorous planning, proper patient selection and close post-op follow-up to minimize risks and optimize results.
At Instituto de Benito we perform every body lift in an accredited operating room, with anesthesia administered by a qualified anesthesiologist and following advanced protocols for safety, thromboembolism prevention and wound healing control. The experience of the surgical team and proper preoperative preparation are essential to reduce complications.
If after surgery you experience severe pain that does not improve with the prescribed medication, a fever above 38 °C, progressive redness of the wound, discharge, opening of the stitches, difficulty breathing, chest pain, significant swelling of one leg or any unexpected worsening, you should contact the clinic immediately or go to the nearest emergency department. Most serious complications can be treated effectively when detected early.
Expected, mild reactions (most resolve within the first few weeks)
These effects are part of the normal recovery process and should not be considered complications:
- Moderate pain and a feeling of tension or tightness in the abdomen, flanks, lower back and thighs during the first few days.
- Swelling and edema of the body, which can persist for several weeks and even a few months in certain areas.
- Bruising around the incisions, which usually fades gradually within 2 to 4 weeks.
- Numbness or a temporary change in skin sensation due to tissue adaptation and nerve regeneration.
- Difficulty standing fully upright during the first few days due to tissue tension.
- Fatigue and general tiredness during the first weeks of recovery.
- Scars that are initially reddish or raised and that gradually evolve and mature over the following 12 to 18 months.
- Mild asymmetries or temporary irregularities related to postoperative swelling.
All of these reactions are common after a body lift. Most patients can return to sedentary activities within 2 to 4 weeks, although full recovery usually takes several months.
Less common effects
There are some issues that, although they do not usually compromise the final result, may appear during recovery:
- Seroma: a buildup of fluid under the skin, especially common in extensive body surgeries. It may require drainage in the office.
- Significant hematoma requiring surgical evacuation.
- Delayed healing in certain areas under greater tension.
- Partial opening of the wound (dehiscence), especially in patients who smoke or have associated risk factors.
- Hypertrophic or keloid scarring in people who are prone to it.
- Body contour irregularities or small residual asymmetries.
- Localized edema persisting for several months.
- Prolonged changes in skin sensation, which in some cases can take more than a year to recover fully.
- Residual excess skin or small areas of laxity that may require additional procedures.
Most of these situations can be resolved through medical follow-up, conservative treatments or minor secondary touch-ups when indicated.
Uncommon complications
As with any major surgery, there are uncommon risks that every patient should be aware of before undergoing the procedure:
- Surgical wound infection, which may require antibiotic treatment and, infrequently, additional procedures.
- Partial skin necrosis, especially in patients who smoke, have diabetes or have compromised blood supply.
- Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism, potentially serious complications that we prevent through specific prophylaxis protocols and early mobilization.
- Significant postoperative bleeding requiring a return to the operating room.
- Complications related to general anesthesia, assessed and minimized during the preoperative workup.
- Persistent or recurrent seromas requiring repeated drainage.
- Poor-quality or widened scars requiring later correction.
- Significant asymmetries or body contour changes that may be eligible for surgical revision.
- Permanent changes in sensation in certain treated areas.
- Healing problems associated with nutritional deficiencies, especially in patients who have previously had bariatric surgery.
Although these complications are uncommon, they are part of the risks inherent in any body contouring surgery. Proper patient selection, quitting smoking, weight stabilization and strict compliance with medical instructions are the most effective measures to reduce their incidence.
Live outside Barcelona or Madrid?
You can also have your body lift with us
Start with a video consultation with our surgeons. The surgeon who will operate on you assesses your case, answers your questions and gives you an exact, personalised quote. No travel needed for the first visit.
50 €
video consultation with your surgeon
Dr. Orestes Fernández
Body contouring
Dr. Antonio Martínez
Facial and body surgery
Body lift in Barcelona and Madrid
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Cristina Betancor
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Encantada con el resultado y con el trato recibido por la doctora Marina y todo su equipo. Muy profesionales, atentos y cercanos en todo momento.
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Nora Haxha
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Such a lovely team and experience! From my first visit to the online follow-ups, everyone has been so kind, caring, and professional. Dr. Neagu and Dr. García are truly exceptional I couldn’t feel in better hands. Thank you for everything! 🤍
Teresa Pacho
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Trato profesional y cercano. Excelencia en la cirujana Marina Garcia y todo el equipo. Honestidad en la comunicación.
Dolores Peñalver
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Mi experiencia en el Instituto de Benito ha sido excelente. Agradecer a la Doctora María Gijón y a todo su equipo por su gran profesionalidad y por ayudar a los clientes ante cualquier duda o aclaración
Marisa Canseco
Googlehace 1 año
El doctor Fernández y su enfermera Cristina son profesionales excelentes y dan un estupendo trato. Los recomiendo al 100%. Los resultados se ajustan totalmente a lo que se comprometen.
Sandra TB
Googlehace 1 año
Agradecer enormemente a la Doctora Marina por el trato durante todo el proceso y por el resultado final. Mi experiencia ha sido maravillosa. Agradecer también a Montse por hacer que esto sea posible.
Maragda L
Googlehace 10 meses
Mi experiencia ha sido de lo mejor, me he sentido totalmente cuidada en todo el proceso de mi operación desde Mónica siempre atenta a mis consultas, hasta las chicas de los masajes y cómo no, con el doctor Orestes Fernández con quién me he sentido acompañada en toda la operación y sobre todo recuperación. Sin duda...
Paula Roldan Martinez-checa
Googlehace 11 meses
La Doctora Marina Garcia es totalmente un acierto. Sinceridad desde el primer momento, te escucha y te aconseja conforme tu idea y de manera que quede lo más natural y bonito posible, siendo siempre realistas. El resultado totalmente bonito, más natural y mejor de lo que incluso yo me pensaba. Una recuperación súper...
Susi Rodríguez Suárez
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La Dra. Marina es maravillosa. Un equipo de profesionales de 10.
julia juan fornes
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La Dra Marina Garcia muy profesional y transmite muchísima confianza desde el primer momento.
Soraya Araujo Criollo
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La profesionalidad de todo el equipo hace que te sientas segura a la hora de pasar por quirófano. Además en mi caso llevo yendo con Eva desde hace casi 8 años y no puedo estar más contenta.
Maria Roig
Googlehace 1 año
Encantada con todos los profesionales de IdB, especialmente con la Dra Marina, Julia y Mónica. No he podido estar en mejores manos. Gracias por todo. Muy feliz con el resultado!
Ana Alvarez Soto
Googlehace 1 año
Mi experience en Instituto de Benito ha sido excelente. El Dr Neagu es una persona estupenda, gran profesional y el trato es entrañable. Tiene un equipo muy competente trabajando con él y siempre me han acompañado durante todo el proceso de una manera impecable.
Ari Li
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Una buena experiencia en la clínica de Benito,excelente personal y muy buenos profesionales. Estoy contenta🥰
Marta Morante
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Me operé con Marina hace 1 año y todo perfecto. Siempre ha sido muy clara y trasparente. 100% recomendada