A thigh lift is performed to tighten the skin around the inner thigh, giving patients a more aesthetically pleasing frame, and slimmer, more contoured thighs that are better proportioned to the buttocks, stomach and legs. The outer thigh is generally not targeted in a thigh lift; liposuction and a butt lift tend to produce better results in the outer thigh.
The thigh lift may be performed alone, or in combination with other cosmetic procedures, such as a buttock lift, or as part of a body lift. When combined with other procedures, patients often see a dramatic change in their overall appearance.
The thigh lift procedure is ideal for patients who are in good general health but have excess skin and tissue in the inner thigh area. This excess skin and tissue may be a result of the natural aging process, pregnancy or significant weight loss.
A thigh lift should not be considered a quick weight loss solution, and is most effective on patients who are close to their ideal weight but are dissatisfied with the appearance of their thighs. It is important for patients to maintain realistic expectations in order to be satisfied with the results of their thigh lift procedure.
The thigh lift procedure is performed under general anesthesia and requires an incision in the groin area and sometimes extends downward, around the back of the thigh, depending on the results desired by the patient. Incisions are placed so that they are discreet, easily hidden by a swimsuit. The inner (medial) thigh lift may require an incision only in the groin area, and is ideal for patients with a moderate amount of skin and fat in the inner thigh area. When needed, an outer (lateral) thigh lift involves an incision stretching from the groin and can often lift the buttocks in addition to the thigh.
After the incision is made, the thigh tissue is tightened to create a smoother and more toned contour. The incisions are closed with sutures and the patient will be asked to wear a compression garment in order to minimize swelling and promote proper healing.
As with other surgeries, mild bruising, swelling and soreness are normal following the procedure. Discomfort is generally minimal in smaller lifts, but when large amounts of skin are removed, an overnight stay in the hospital may be required. Pain medication and anti-inflammatory methods are typically prescribed to address the soreness and swelling.
Following a thigh lift, patients can resume light activities within two weeks, and are usually able to resume normal activities within four to six weeks. All symptoms disappear and scars will be faded within six months.
The results of the procedure will be visible right away and will continue to improve as swelling and other symptoms subside, usually in a matter of four to six weeks. The long-term results of a thigh lift are slimmer, more defined legs, and results can be permanent in patients who maintain an active and healthy lifestyle and do not gain significant amounts of weight. Significant weight gain can affect the long-term results of a thigh lift, and further treatment may be required to restore slimmer legs.
Although this procedure is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks and complications associated with any type of surgical procedure. Some of these risks include infection, healing problems, blood clots and fluid drainage. Dr. Chaudhari discusses all surgical risks with his patients prior to any procedure, and risks and complications are minimized when patients follow all doctors instructions before and after surgery.
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Grace (5’8” 150 lbs) has lost about 150 lbs from a gastric sleeve about 2 years ago and already had a brachioplasty by me about 6 months ago. She wanted all the extra skin from her thighs removed so she underwent a medial thigh lift with T-incisions.
Laura (5’7” 140 lbs) has lost 75 lbs over the past few years and now has significant excess skin of arms and inner thighs and will be undergoing brachioplasty (arm lift) and crescent thigh lift to remove that excess skin.
Sonia (5’3” 142 lbs) had a tummy tuck with lipo and breast lift many years ago and then lost a lot of weight. She came to us address the extra skin of her thighs, her sagging buttocks and breast deflation, so she underwent crescent thigh lift, buttock lift, and breast augmentation.
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