Horizontal Back Lift After Massive Weight Loss | Torsoplasty Transformation*

At 65 years old, our patient is a White female who had lost over 100lbs and was left with significant, sagging back skin that would not tighten with exercise. At 115 lbs, her concern was no longer weight loss; it was the uncomfortable “back roll” and loose tissue that can bunch in bras, and make the upper torso appear heavier than it truly is. Dr. Timothy Katzen recommended a torsoplasty, also called a back lift, using a horizontal incision to remove the hanging skin and restore a smoother, more balanced contour down through the mid-back. Under general anesthesia, Dr. Katzen carefully marked the excess tissue while the patient was positioned to show where the skin naturally folds, then created a planned horizontal incision so the scar could be placed in a discreet location whenever possible. The loose skin and underlying fatty tissue were then removed in a controlled, even manner, with a focus on maintaining a smooth back and avoiding a “pulled” appearance. In total, Dr. Katzen removed 1.5 lb of excess skin, then tightened and redraped the remaining tissue to improve shape and reduce bulging along the sides of the torso. The incision was closed in multiple layers to promote strong healing, and compression is typically used to reduce swelling and maintain the new contour. These photos were taken 2.5 months after surgery, and her results are already remarkable, showing a flatter back profile, and a more defined, youthful torso silhouette as healing continues to refine.