Thigh Lift Surgery
Thigh lift (“thighplasty”) is designed to improve the appearance of the thighs by reducing excess skin, and in some cases, excess fat. This surgical procedure offers smoother, better-toned skin and more proportionate thigh contours in relation to the rest of the lower body. Ideal candidates should be both physically and mentally healthy, with realistic expectations and goals, before undergoing any type of cosmetic surgery.
Thigh Lift Candidates
Generally, ideal thigh lift candidates have loose skin in their hips and thighs with thin layers of fat below the skin, in addition to excess soft tissue along the inner or medial thigh region and/or the outer thigh. Those who have lost an extensive amount of weight through diet and exercise or bariatric surgery are usually good candidates for the procedure. In addition, your weight should be stabilized and as close to your ideal body weight as possible.
Benefits of Plastic Surgery after Weight Loss
Patients who have fully recovered from gastric bypass surgery or who have reached their optimum weight-loss goal can experience numerous benefits by undergoing body sculpting procedures such as body lift, abdominoplasty, thigh lift, or arm lift. Body sculpting surgery can provide the following benefits for qualified candidates:
- Maintenance of Body Weight with less regaining of weight
- Targeted body contouring
- Removal of hanging, loose skin
- Elimination of stubborn fat deposits
- Enhanced body shape and a smoother silhouette
- Freedom from physical reminders of the previous burden of weight
- A more natural shape and appearance
- Improved self-confidence and body image
Thigh Lift Surgery Procedure
Thigh lift involves making an incision on the inside of the upper leg at the level of the inguinal crease. Excess skin and soft tissue are then pulled up over this incision. The excess skin and soft tissue are then cut away. The incision is then closed, leaving a hidden scar on the inside of the thigh crease, and resulting in a much better contour of the thigh.
Thigh Lift Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have scarring from thigh lift surgery?
The amount of scarring you can expect after body sculpting will vary depending on the procedures you undergo. Some procedures will leave small, inconspicuous scars while others will leave larger, more noticeable scars. Patients who undergo body sculpting procedures usually feel that the benefits of skin and fat removal outweigh the downsides of noticeable scarring. Nonetheless, Dr. Graham takes care to make any scarring as minimal and inconspicuous as possible. Even with those procedures that require lengthy incisions, the scars will be inconspicuously placed and can be hidden with most clothing and underwear.
What are the risks associated with thigh lift surgery?
Please refer to the following form published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
Will I have to stay in the hospital following thigh lift surgery?
No. Thigh lift is an outpatient procedure performed in an accredited hospital or ambulatory surgery center.
Can thigh lift surgery be combined with other procedures?
The goals and circumstances for each patient will determine whether it is better to undergo multiple procedures at once or in stages. Often thigh lift can be combined with tummy tuck, arm lift, or breast liftWhile combining procedures allows you to experience the final results sooner, this option has a more difficult and lengthy recovery. If the procedure is performed in stages, each recovery may be easier and shorter, but there will be multiple recovery periods. There will also be waiting periods between each surgery, and depending on circumstances, these waiting periods may last for weeks, months, or even years.
Do all weight loss patients undergo thigh lift surgery?
Post-gastric bypass or weight loss body sculpting is elective, but it is common for patients to choose to undergo these procedures. Despite the significant weight loss, many patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery feel dissatisfied with their appearance because of the remaining skin and fat. Undergoing body contouring procedures can help you improve your body contour and achieve the attractive, youthful body contour and self-confidence you desire. Plastic Surgery can also help you keep of the weight you lost.
What is the recovery time following thigh lift surgery?
This is dependent on the type of work you perform. Many patients with office jobs only require a week or two. However, patients who perform heavy labor may require 4-6 weeks to recover. You will not be able to lift anything greater than 10 lbs for 8 weeks. You will not be able to run or jog for 4 weeks.
How long will my thigh lift surgery results last?
The results of body sculpting after gastric bypass surgery can be long lasting. Patients who remain committed to a healthy lifestyle and who avoid future weight fluctuations will experience the best long-term results.
