At Carely Clinic, we offer advanced body lift procedures to help you achieve a sculpted, contoured appearance after significant weight loss or aging.
A body lift is a comprehensive cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat, while tightening and reshaping the underlying tissues to improve the contour of the body. This procedure is particularly popular among individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or sagging skin due to aging. A body lift can target multiple areas, such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and back, providing a toned and youthful appearance.
You’ve done the amazing job of losing a lot of weight, but now you’re faced with the sad truth that your body doesn’t show how hard you worked to win. Loose, hanging skin on your stomach, thighs, buttocks, and back doesn’t go away with diet or exercise. It can make you feel bad about yourself and make you less comfortable.
A body lift in Turkey is the last step in your weight loss journey. It removes extra skin and reshapes your body’s contours to match your healthier weight. Every year, thousands of patients from other countries come to Turkish clinics for body contouring that is just as safe and effective as the best in the world but at a lower cost.
We at Carely Clinic in Istanbul specialize in full-body lifts for people who have lost weight. We know how your body and mind will change during the process. Led by Op. Dr. Abdullah Sürücü, our team of experts combines technical skill with artistic vision to give you results that look natural and honor your journey while improving your quality of life.
This complete guide tells you everything you need to know about getting a body lift in Turkey, from how the procedure works to how much it will cost, how long it will take to recover, and how to get the body shape that matches your healthier self.
A body lift is a life-changing surgery that is only for people who have lost a lot of weight, usually 50 pounds (23 kg) or more, through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes. A full body lift is different from tummy tucks or thigh lifts because it works on several areas at once. It removes extra skin and fat and moves and tightens the tissues underneath to make the body look much better.
Most body lifts use a circumferential method that treats the lower body like a belt. This means that the procedure removes hanging skin and tissue from the abdomen, sides, lower back, buttocks, and often the outer thighs all at once. Instead of treating each area separately, this 360° approach makes sure that the results are balanced and harmonious. For a full transformation, many patients may need to have more procedures done on their arms, inner thighs, or breasts at the same time or in stages.
During surgery, cuts are made in places that can be covered up by clothing or natural body folds. Excess skin is carefully cut away through these cuts, underlying tissues are moved and held in place with deep sutures, and the remaining skin is redraped to give it a smoother, more contoured look. The procedure usually takes 4 to 7 hours under general anesthesia, and the patient needs to stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 nights to make sure they are recovering well.
The fact that body lift surgery involves a lot of cutting and moving of tissue makes it especially difficult. It’s not just about taking off skin; it’s also about rebuilding the framework of your body, bringing back natural curves, and making sure the proportions are even. The surgery fixes both functional and cosmetic problems, often getting rid of painful skin chafing, rashes, and limited mobility while making the person look a lot better.
There is a structured process for recovery that lasts 4 to 6 weeks and includes wearing compression clothes, managing drainage, and gradually increasing activity levels. As the swelling goes down and the tissues settle, the results keep getting better for 6 to 12 months. This shows your body’s new, firmer shape.
Beyond the visible transformation, body lift surgery delivers life-changing benefits that address both physical and psychological aspects of post-weight-loss challenges:
Understanding if you’re an ideal candidate for body lift surgery helps establish realistic expectations and ensures optimal surgical outcomes:
| Criteria | Good Candidate | May Need Additional Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Status | Stable weight ≥ 6 months after ≥ 23 kg / 50 lb loss | Still losing weight or planning further loss |
| Time Since Weight Loss | 12–18 months post-bariatric surgery or major loss | < 12 months from major loss or bariatric surgery |
| BMI Range | 18 – 32 | > 32 (higher surgical risk) |
| Physical Health | Good overall health; no uncontrolled disease | Uncontrolled diabetes, cardiac or pulmonary issues |
| Nutrition Status | Well-nourished; adequate protein & micronutrients | Protein, vitamin, or mineral deficiencies |
| Skin Concerns | Moderate–severe laxity in multiple areas | Mild laxity—may suit less-invasive options |
| Expectations | Realistic about scarring and recovery demands | Wants scar-free results or minimal downtime |
| Lifestyle | Non-smoker / quit ≥ 6 weeks pre-op; limited alcohol | Current smoker or unwilling to pause for surgery |
Planning your body lift surgery abroad can feel overwhelming—but not with Carely Clinic. Here’s exactly what to expect during your 7-day stay in Istanbul, so you can feel confident and relaxed throughout your transformation:
Step 1: You Contact Us
It all starts with a message. After you reach out, we’ll ask for clear photos of the areas you’d like to improve, along with some basic health information. This helps our surgical team evaluate your needs before confirming if you’re a candidate.
Step 2: We Consult the Surgeon
Op. Dr. Abdullah Sürücü, our expert in body lift procedures, will carefully review your case. If you’re suitable for surgery, we’ll send you a personalized treatment plan along with an all-inclusive quote — covering surgery, hotel, transfers, aftercare, and more.
Step 3: Travel Planning & Preparation
Once you’re ready, we’ll arrange everything for your journey:
Airport transfers
5-star hotel accommodation
Pre-scheduled consultation and surgery
Pre-op instructions including medications to avoid and recovery tips
You just book your flight — we handle the rest.
Step 4: Arrival in Istanbul (Day 1)
Your private driver will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. You’ll have the evening to relax and settle in. Your patient coordinator will provide your welcome kit with detailed instructions.
Step 5: Consultation & Surgery (Day 2–3)
The next morning, you’ll visit Carely Clinic for an in-person consultation with Dr. Sürücü. He’ll take final measurements, answer your questions, and finalize your surgical plan.
Your body lift surgery is performed the following day in our JCI-accredited hospital, with advanced safety protocols and a highly experienced medical team.
Step 6: Recovery & Check-Ups (Days 4–6)
After your surgery, you’ll recover under medical supervision in our hospital and then continue recovery at your hotel. Our nursing team will visit daily to monitor your healing, manage drains, change dressings, and ensure your comfort.
Your surgeon will check on your progress to make sure everything is healing well.
Step 7: Final Assessment & Return Home (Day 7)
On your last day in Istanbul, you’ll return to Carely Clinic for a final post-op check-up. You’ll receive:
Detailed aftercare instructions
Medical reports
A supply of medication
Your follow-up schedule
We’ll also set up your virtual consultations for ongoing care after you return home.
Your entire stay in Istanbul lasts just 7 days, but your journey with us continues long after. We offer follow-ups at 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months, so you’re never alone during your recovery.
Understanding the financial aspects of your body lift journey helps you plan effectively without compromising on quality:
| Country | All-Inclusive Body Lift Package | Savings vs. Home Country |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey (Carely Clinic) | €5,000 | Baseline |
| United Kingdom | €16,000 | ≈ 58 % savings |
| United States | €22,000 | ≈ 69 % savings |
| Germany | €16,000 | ≈ 58 % savings |
| Canada | €18,000 | ≈ 62 % savings |
| Australia | €22,000 | ≈ 69 % savings |
The significant price difference doesn’t reflect a quality compromise but stems from Turkey’s lower operating costs, favorable exchange rates, and streamlined healthcare systems. Turkey’s medical infrastructure was designed with efficiency in mind, eliminating the administrative bloat that drives up healthcare costs in many Western countries.
A comprehensive study in the International Journal of Medical Tourism found that while Turkish plastic surgery costs average 65-75% less than in Western Europe or North America, patient outcomes and satisfaction rates in accredited facilities were statistically equivalent or superior to Western counterparts (Yilmaz et al., 2024).
Turkey—especially Istanbul—has become one of the most trusted destinations in the world for body lift procedures, particularly after significant weight loss. Each year, thousands of patients choose Turkey not only for affordability, but for the quality of care, surgical expertise, and comprehensive recovery support they receive.
Turkish plastic surgeons are highly experienced in treating patients who’ve undergone major weight loss, such as after bariatric surgery. Many perform over 100 body lift surgeries each year—far more than surgeons in most Western countries. This hands-on experience leads to safer procedures, better body symmetry, and more predictable long-term outcomes.
Unlike the segmented approach common in many countries, Turkish clinics often focus on total body reshaping. This means surgeons plan body lift procedures holistically—addressing the abdomen, back, thighs, and buttocks together when needed—to create a smoother, more natural-looking result that enhances overall proportions.
Turkey’s healthcare system is uniquely designed to support extended recovery stays. This is especially valuable for body lift patients who benefit from daily follow-ups, wound care, and medical supervision during the early healing period. Most Western hospitals discharge patients after a few hours or one day, while Turkish clinics often include 7 to 10 days of structured, hands-on care.
A full lower or circumferential body lift in Turkey typically costs 65–75% less than in the UK, US, or Canada. Yet patients still receive surgery in JCI-accredited hospitals with modern equipment, licensed surgeons, and international safety protocols. Research published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery confirmed that complication rates in top Turkish clinics are comparable to—if not better than—those in Europe and North America.
Istanbul offers a calm, welcoming environment for healing. With carefully selected hotels, relaxing views of the Bosphorus, and patient coordinators available 24/7, patients often say their recovery experience in Turkey is more comfortable than they expected.
Many patients prefer to undergo major aesthetic procedures away from home, allowing them to recover in peace and privacy. Turkey’s international medical tourism reputation offers the perfect balance between high-level care and complete confidentiality.
At Carely Clinic, we don’t just perform surgery—we guide you through a complete transformation with compassion, precision, and expert care. Here’s why patients from over 40 countries trust us for their body lift journey:
Over 2,700 body lift surgeries performed for post-weight-loss patients
Founded in 2008, specializing exclusively in advanced body reshaping
91% patient satisfaction at 12 months post-op, based on independent follow-up surveys
Led by Op. Dr. Abdullah Sürücü, a board-certified plastic surgeon and ISAPS member
Our surgical team focuses only on post-weight-loss body contouring
Invited speaker at international plastic surgery conferences
Contributor to peer-reviewed studies on safe and effective body lift techniques
JCI-accredited hospital: meets global safety and hygiene standards
ISO 9001-certified clinic with strict quality management protocols
Turkish Ministry of Health: Class A-rated (highest category for surgical centers)
Recognized teaching facility for complex body contouring procedures
Clear consultation and pricing — no hidden costs or upselling
Detailed before/after photo library for realistic expectations
Full support during recovery, with revision policy if touch-ups are ever needed
Direct access to your surgeon and patient coordinator throughout your journey
At Carely Clinic, we understand that a body lift is about more than just appearance — it’s about reclaiming your confidence after the long journey of weight loss. Whether you’re removing excess skin, improving mobility, or restoring proportion, we’re here to ensure you feel supported every step of the way.
Your transformation deserves experience, safety, and genuine care — and that’s exactly what we provide.
Content created by Carely Clinic’s Medical Communications Department based on the latest plastic-surgery research and clinical outcomes.
Reviewed by Dr. Taha Sonmez & Dr. Abdullah Surücü – May 2025
Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice from a licensed healthcare professional.
Get a free consultation by filling out the form. Our experts are ready to assist you with your aesthetic goals and answer any questions you may have.
A body lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, hips, buttocks, and thighs to improve body shape and contour, especially after significant weight loss.
Ideal candidates are individuals who have lost a large amount of weight, are at a stable weight for at least 6 months, and are in good overall health without serious medical conditions.
The average cost of a full lower body lift in Turkey ranges between €4,000 and €6,500, including surgery, hospital stay, hotel accommodation, transfers, and aftercare.
Turkey offers lower costs due to favorable exchange rates, lower operational expenses, and high procedure volume — without compromising on quality or safety.
Most patients stay for 7 to 10 days, which includes consultation, surgery, early recovery, and final post-op check before flying home.
Yes, when performed in JCI-accredited hospitals and by experienced plastic surgeons, body lift surgery in Turkey is as safe as in any Western country.
Yes, body lift procedures involve long incisions, but experienced Turkish surgeons place them strategically and provide scar management techniques to minimize visibility over time.
Initial results are noticeable immediately, but final results typically take 3 to 6 months to fully appear as swelling subsides and tissues settle.
A full lower body lift usually takes 4 to 7 hours, depending on the extent of skin removal and the number of areas treated.
Yes, many patients combine a body lift with arm lift, breast lift, or liposuction depending on their goals and medical suitability.
You’ll stay in the hospital for 2–3 nights, followed by light recovery at your hotel. Most patients return to normal activities in 2–4 weeks but should avoid strenuous exercise for 6 weeks.
Yes, it’s recommended to reach your target weight and maintain it for at least 6 months before surgery for the safest and most effective outcome.
Results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight, stay active, and follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions.
Ready to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence?Schedule a consultation with our experienced team of board-certified plastic surgeons in Turkey.
Specializing in plastic surgery, hair restoration, and weight loss treatments, we provide expert care with advanced techniques and personalized treatments. From consultation to aftercare, we are with you every step of the way, helping you achieve your ideal look with confidence.
