What is thigh lift surgery?

Thigh lift surgery reshapes the thighs by reducing excess skin and fat, resulting in smoother skin and better-proportioned contours of the thighs and lower body.

If fitness and weight control efforts have not achieved your goals for a body that is firmer, more youthful-looking and more proportionate to your overall body image, a surgical lift may be right for you.

What thigh lift surgery can’t do

Thigh lifts are not intended strictly for the removal of excess fat. Liposuction alone can remove excess fat deposits where skin has good elasticity and is able to naturally conform to new body contours.

In cases where skin elasticity is poor, a thigh lift along with liposuction may be recommended.

Technique

What are the steps of a thigh lift procedure?

A thigh lift procedure includes the following steps:

Step 1 – Anesthesia

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The options include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best option for you.

Step 2 – The incision

Incision patterns vary based on the area or areas to be treated, degree of correction and patient and surgeon preference.

Inner thigh lift incision

One technique used for a thigh lift places incisions in the groin, extending downward and wrapping around the back of the thigh.

Another technique removes excess skin from the groin down to the knee using an incision along the inseam.

You may also qualify for a minimal incision inner thigh lift that involves an incision only in the groin area. Your plastic surgeon will determine what’s appropriate.

Outer thigh lift incision

Improving the contours of the outer thigh may require an incision extending from the groin around the hip and across the back.

Advanced techniques usually allow incisions to be placed in strategic locations where they can be hidden by most types of clothing and swimsuits. However, incisions may be extensive.

Step 3 – Closing the incisions

Deep sutures within underlying tissues help to form and support the newly shaped contours. Sutures, skin adhesive tapes or clips may be used to close the skin incisions.

Step 4 – See the results

The smoother tighter contouring that results from a thigh lift is apparent almost immediately, although initially obscured by swelling and bruising. Get more information about thigh lift results.

Recuperation and Healing:

What should I expect during my thigh lift recovery?

During your recovery from thigh lift surgery, dressings/bandages may be applied to your incisions following the procedure.

Small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain excess fluid or blood that may collect.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

• How to care for the surgical site(s)
• Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
• When to follow up with your plastic surgeon

Be sure to ask your thigh lift surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:

• Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
• What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
• Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
• Are stitches removed? When?
• When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
• When do I return for follow-up care?

Thigh lift recovery at home

If you experience any shortness of breath, chest pains or unusual heartbeats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any of these complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.

Following your physician’s instructions is key to the success of your surgery.

It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.

DEDICATED TO YOUR CARE

The entire surgical process begins well before your actual surgery date.  Detailed descriptions of the entire pre and post-surgical course will be explained.  Surgical consents will be signed once any and all questions are addressed.  All prescriptions are provided and explained.  During this entire surgical experience, Dr. Hainer and the entire staff at North Oakland Plastic Surgery is committed toward availability.  Dr. Hainer will provide each patient with his personal beeper number that is available 24hrs a day.  Your well-being and smooth recovery is of utmost importance to us all. We strive to meet all of your needs and make ourselves available at all times for any questions that may arise.  Our goal through the entire process is to inform and educate you so that there are no surprises and that all your expectations are fulfilled.  Care is individualized and personalized to make this entire experience a pleasant one.