Thigh Lift
After considerable weight loss, skin can be left with a “saggy” appearance, which is not the look you had in mind when you decided to lose weight. A surgical thigh lift moves skin that has lost its elasticity, improving the overall appearance of the thigh area, although often focusing specifically on the inner
thighs.
SURGICAL/PROCEDURE NAME
Thigh Lift
COMMON NAME
- Thigh Lift
- Leg Lift
SURGICAL PROCEDURE
Immediately before surgery, your doctor will mark your thighs while you are in a standing position. He/she will grasp the skin and gently pull it upwards in order to estimate how much skin should be removed. An incision is made in the groin that goes to the back of the crease of the buttock. Skin is then lifted and excess skin and fats are removed to improve the shape of the leg and tighten the skin. The final scar is hidden in the groin crease.
DURATION
4-5 hours
ANAESTHETIC
General anesthesia – discussed with your surgeon
PRE-OPERATIVE CARE
Before surgery, please inform your surgeon of any allergies, all medical conditions, and any medication that you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription).
To eliminate the chance of post op. bleeding, you should avoid aspirin and any medication containing aspirin for 2 weeks prior to surgery. You should also not smoke for 1-2 months prior to surgery as smoking can affect your reaction to the anesthetic and slow down the healing process. Patients who suffer from hypertension must inform the surgeon prior to surgery.
POST OPERATIVE CARE
After surgery your legs/thighs(s) will be covered with a compression garment designed to hold them in shape whilst the newly sculpted skin heals to the tissue beneath. You will have sutures, possibly with a drain inserted to help the skin and tissue heal. Some of the sutures will absorb, and some may have to be removed by your during a follow-up visit
Following the procedure you may feel some discomfort as there may be some swelling, bruising and stiffness. The recovery time is about 3-4 days. Candidates who have lost a lot of weight and therefore require surgery may need a week or so before returning to work.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Like all surgical procedures, thigh lifting surgery has its own set of risks and side effects.
EDUCATE
Knowing what complications may arise, as well as what can prevent them, will help patients enjoy a positive experience.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Infection
- Unsatisfying results
- Excessive bleeding
- Adverse Reaction to anesthesia
- Need for second or more procedure
- Pulmonary embolism
- Scarring
In order to prevent any serious difficulties, patients are strongly urged to follow all instructions provided by their surgeon.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
