This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
An upper back lift, sometimes called a bra line lift, is a body contouring procedure that may be considered to remove excess skin and, in some cases, fat from the upper back. It is most commonly discussed after significant weight loss or where skin laxity causes folds under clothing. A consultation is required to confirm suitability, discuss scar placement (often along the bra line), recovery, and risks. All surgery results in scars, and outcomes vary.
The procedure typically involves an incision across the upper back (often positioned to sit under a bra line) and removal of excess skin and tissue. The remaining skin is tightened and closed with sutures. Scar length and position depend on the amount of excess skin and surgical plan; scars are permanent and vary in appearance.
Potential physical changes may include:
– Reduction of upper back skin folds in selected cases (degree varies).
– Change in the contour of the upper back where skin quality allows (variable).
– In some patients, reduction in skin irritation from folds (where present; not guaranteed).
Outcomes vary and additional procedures may be discussed if laxity extends to adjacent areas.
A suitable candidate is generally a healthy adult with upper back skin redundancy, at a stable weight, who accepts the trade‑off of a longer scar for the degree of tissue removal.
You May Be a Good Candidate If
– You have excess upper back skin you would like assessed.
– You are at a stable weight and understand results and scarring vary.
– You can cease nicotine use as directed and follow aftercare instructions.
– You can plan for recovery and limit activity as advised.
This procedure/treatment may not be appropriate if you have:
– Significant ongoing weight changes.
– Uncontrolled medical conditions that increase surgical risk.
– The inability to stop nicotine use where clinically required.
– Unrealistic expectations about scarring or outcomes.
Technique selection is individual and based on your anatomy, goals and safety considerations. Options may include:
– Incision planning: often along the upper back to align with typical bra coverage where possible.
– Tissue excision and repositioning: tailored to the degree of skin excess and anatomy.
– Combined contouring (selected cases): may be combined with other body contouring procedures depending on safety and goals.
Your clinician/surgeon will explain the recommended approach and expected trade‑offs during consultation.
Anesthesia
Commonly performed under general anaesthesia.
You will receive individual instructions. Common requirements may include:
– Medication and supplement review, including anything that can increase bleeding risk (as advised).
– Nicotine cessation for the recommended period before and after treatment/surgery (if applicable).
– Planning time off work, transport, and at-home support (where relevant).
– Fasting instructions prior to anaesthesia (if applicable).
– Pre-operative assessments/tests as advised by your treating team.
Return to Work: desk‑based work may be possible in ~2–3 weeks depending on extent and comfort.
Return to Exercise: heavy lifting and strenuous activity commonly restricted for ~6–8 weeks or until cleared.
Assessing outcome: swelling and scar maturation can take months.
The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
Procedure: Abdominoplasty, Breast Lift
Recovery Timeline: 3 Months
