Thigh Lift
(Thighplasty)

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Loose, saggy skin in the upper thigh/lower buttocks region can appear as a result of age or genetics. It can also be the result of large amounts of weight loss either traditionally or following the popular gastric bypass procedure for obesity. After the fat is lost, many areas of the body can be left with excessive amounts of loose skin that can cause much discomfort in clothing and poor self-image. Sagging skin in the thighs makes it difficult for people to wear shorts, bathing suits, and other types of fashion without feeling extremely self-conscious.

Thigh lift is a procedure designed to tighten this loose, sagging or wrinkled skin and create smoother, more youthful-looking thighs.  It can also help to smooth out dimpling and other irregularities in the thighs. 

Who is a good candidate for Thigh lift?

• Those who have a saggy, loose appearance and poor elasticity to thigh skin as a result of age, genetics or weight loss.

The procedure

Thigh lift can remove skin that has lost elasticity and improve the overall appearance of the inner or outer thigh area. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes about two hours. An incision is made in the groin area beneath the bikini line and some of the thigh skin is removed. Then tissue below the incision area is loosened and after the skin is pulled up and tightened, the incision area is closed with sutures. Deep stitches are also used for thighlift in order to secure the skin below and prevent sagging as the incisions heal.

Drains are used and placed inside the incision site to help collect excess residual fluid that can build up after surgery. Drains are usually removed after just a few days.

How will I look and feel after surgery?

• Immediately following surgery, you will be placed in a compression garment, similar to a tight girdle. to reduce swelling and help with tightening of thigh skin.
• Patients will experience some discomfort. Much of this discomfort can be controlled with pain medication that your physician will prescribe.
• You will have some swelling and bruising that should subside within one month.
• You will be able to move around within a few days following surgery.

When can I resume normal activities?

• Most patients will be able to return to work within two weeks.
• Sutures will typically be taken out within a week to ten days.
• Minimal, light activities can be performed after about two weeks.
• More strenuous activities can resume within after six weeks.
• After four to six months most all of your postoperative symptoms should be gone.

Results of my surgery

• The results of surgery are notices almost immediately, even though swelling is present.
• Thigh lift will leave you with visible scars that may fade over time. Most patients feel that the results of their surgery far outweigh any scars.
• Thigh lift can restore confidence by re-creating a more youthful appearance.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE

• There are risks associated with any surgical procedure.
• The specific risks and suitability of each procedure for a given individual can only be determined at the time of consultation. 
• Minor complications that do not affect the outcome may occasionally occur.
• Major complications are rare.

Your plastic surgeon will review any and all risks and benefits with you prior to surgery, during a private consultation.