Thigh Lift Information
Background on Suture Suspension
Suture suspension is a radical new procedure intended reduce the fatty deposits and loose, flabby skin along the neck and face. Many patients who initially thought a face and neck lift was the only solution are discovering the benefits of this incredible procedure.Background on Thigh Lift Surgery
A lifetime of walking, standing, sitting, and running takes an immense toll on the skin of our legs, often causing dimples and scarring. Fortunately, more and more people are discovering that a thigh lift can provide patients with a more youthful appearance of the legs - especially the inner thighs. This is accomplished by removing excess skin and fat from the thighs and sculpting a more attractive upper leg region.Best candidates for Thigh Lift Surgery
The best candidates for thigh lift surgery have experienced significant weight loss and are left with extra stretched skin in the thigh area. Alternatively, age might have played a role in aesthetic problems that liposuction alone cannot fix. Candidates should also be in good health and have realistic expectations about the potential benefits a thighplasty operation could have for them.Uncertainty and risk of Thigh Lift Surgery
All surgical operations have inherent uncertainties or risks involved. Your plastic surgeon will provide a customized evaluation outlining any possible concerns related to the thigh lift procedure.Planning for Thigh Lift Surgery
When planning any form of plastic surgery, it is important to choose a doctor who is certified and knowledgeable. You will be working with your plastic surgeon to accomplish your aesthetic goals and the entire thighplasty procedure will be explained to you in great detail. Your doctor will meet with you and review your health, medical and family histories and provide a physical examination. It is common for patients to meet with their plastic surgeons several times before surgery to carefully plan every detail of the operation.Preparing for Thigh Lift surgery
Your plastic surgeon will give you specific guidelines regarding how to prepare for thigh lift surgery. These will include instructions on eating, drinking, and smoking habits as well as vitamins or medications to take or avoid. To prevent driving while under the influence of anesthesia, you should also prepare for surgery by arranging for someone to pick you up after the operation.Where the Thigh Lift surgery is performed
Thighplasty is a rather extensive form of plastic surgery, so it is usually performed in an accredited surgery center or hospital. The duration of the operation is typically from two to four hours. Your doctor will explain the location of the surgery during your thigh lift consultation.Types of anesthesia
The type of anesthesia used is dependent on the patient and the extent of the procedure being performed. Most people who undergo a thigh lift choose general anesthesia so that they are asleep during the entire operation. However, in some cases a local anesthesia is used in combination with sedation so the patient is relaxed and does not feel pain.How the Thigh Lift surgery is performed
Under general anesthesia, the plastic surgeon first uses liposuction to remove any excess fat in the legs and thighs. Next, the doctor makes small incisions along the upper thigh, stretches the skin, and reattaches it. The incisions are inconspicuous, located in the groin area with scars that are easily hidden by a bathing suit. Finally, medical devices are inserted to allow draining to occur for a couple days.Post-op/Recovery
Most patients choose to comfortably stay at the hospital overnight after a thighplasty. Any pain following the operation is easily managed through medications prescribed by the plastic surgeon. Patients are usually instructed to wear a compression garment while recovering that allows the skin to conform to its new shape and promotes healing. You will be able to return to work in one or two weeks after having a thigh lift, although strenuous activity should be avoided for an additional three weeks.Methods: Thigh Lift Procedures
MethodsThe thigh area is an area of concern for many individuals who are considering plastic surgery. Fortunately, procedures have been developed that can dramatically improve the appearance of the thighs. Depending on the needs and expectations of the patient, plastic surgeons can perform inner (medial) thigh lifts or outer (lateral) thigh lifts to help others attain the pleasing shape they've always desired.
Inner Thigh Lift
(Medial)
The inner thigh is a common area of concern among people who are interested in thighplasty. Operating on this area can improve overall shape of the thigh and reduce the rubbing together of the inner thighs. Typically, the inner (medial) thigh lift involves a small incision in the groin area. Liposuction is used to remove excess fat, and an additional incision is made to help bring lax skin to a tighter and more pleasing position.
Outer Thigh Lift
(Lateral)
The outer (lateral) thigh lift is more demanding than the inner (medial) lift. This operation can take as long as eight hours to complete and often requires the plastic surgeon to operate on the buttocks area. Although the scars left by an outer (lateral) thigh lift are more pervasive than those from the inner (medial) thigh lift, the results are dramatic and can be very satisfying for patients.
Thigh Lift Statistics
(Thighplasty)
- The thigh is the second most commonly request area for body lift surgery.
- In 2004, 13,502 thigh lifts were performed in the United States. This is a 53% increase over 2003.
Methods: Thigh Lift Procedures
How can I know if I'm a good candidate for a thigh lift or thighplasty?If you have lost a significant amount of weight but are left with unsatisfactory extra skin in your thigh region, you may be an excellent candidate for a thigh lift. Other people that a thighplasty is well suited for may suffer from loose saggy skin on their thighs that does not respond to exercise, dieting, or liposuction. If you think you could benefit from the aesthetic improvements thighplasty has to offer, speak with a plastic surgeon about your desires and needs.
What is the evaluation process for a thigh lift or thighplasty?
When you speak with a plastic surgeon about a thigh lift, you will be asked for a complete family, health, and medical history. Your doctor will also give you a physical examination and discuss your goals and expectations of the surgery with you. It is important for you to be open with your plastic surgeon, as effective communication about thighplasty results in greater mutual satisfaction with the operation.
How will I be informed about the cost of surgery?
During your initial consultation you doctor will discuss the costs of the operation with you.
Where are the incisions placed for the thigh lift or thighplasty procedure?
The extent and locations of incisions are completely dependent upon the patient and his or her needs. However, incisions are generally located in the area where the groin meets the thigh and are designed to be easily concealed when the patient wears a swimsuit.
What are some of the risks involved with thighplasty or thigh lifts?
There are risks involved with every type of surgery. Your doctor will discuss any potential risks during your initial consultation.
What steps should I take to prepare for surgery?
Your plastic surgeon will provide you with guidelines to follow while preparing for your thighplasty. These guidelines may include instructions on eating, drinking, and smoking habits. Additionally, you should arrange for someone to pick you up after the surgery and provide you with a safe ride home.
What can I expect on the day of surgery?
Your surgery will most likely be performed in a hospital with an overnight stay. After checking in and getting comfortable, you will be given general anesthesia so you will be asleep during the thigh lift and will feel no pain. To ensure your safety, you will be closely monitored by a team of medical professionals during your surgery.
How will I look at first?
You will be able to notice a difference in your physical shape immediately after the surgery. However, you will likely experience some swelling and will probably require medications for a couple days to aid with the healing process. Additionally, you will be fitted with dressings or a compression garment to wear for several days following the thigh lift.
When can I pursue my normal activities again?
You will be able to resume many activities within the first week following the thighplasty. Most activities will be accessible by at least three weeks after the operation. Although you will be up and about, you should expect to take about a week off from work.
How long do the results from surgery last?
The results of a thigh lift are permanent. By pursuing a healthy lifestyle, you can remain comfortable and confident with your body for the rest of your life. The benefits of thighplasty can truly last a lifetime.