sudomod

Long story short: while attempting to fix the final issue with my GBZ, I lifted the USB data pads and now I don't know what to do. I was ready to close up the case, and now this happened.

Examine closely the thin traces that lead to the lifted pads and lightly scratch using the corner edge of a flat screw precision driver. Be careful not to scratch too much though. Scratch the points as far away from each other as you can so it's easier to solder.

Optional: Once you solder them both and before powering up, scratch another area in the traces just to ensure you have your solder point connected.

Good luck!

other way to try is removing the USB socket and use the pads on that side. (i did it a few times and took a lot of heat and time but i did a clean job,

Whichever route you choose, you're going to have to be very careful. Dirtybullets is right, the ports will take a lot of heat to remove and you run the risk of removing these pads too. You have options though, you're not done yet!

there are no alternative points unless you want to solder to the back of the usb connector or remove it

When you get it back, hotglue your wire!! It will prevent you from doing this again since I guess you are not brutal with it