Thigh Lift

What is a thigh lift?

A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that addresses inner thigh excess skin and adipose tissue typically in patients after massive weight loss but not only. It is a two-step procedure that starts with liposuction of the inner thighs followed by excision of the excess skin. It is done under general anesthesia.

Why a thigh lift?

The acceptance of bariatric surgery as an effective and durable means of treating obesity has fueled a rise in individuals seeking body contouring following massive weight loss. The medial thighplasty can be designed to treat the varying amount of skin laxity.

The massive weight loss population is a fast-growing demographic within plastic surgery. It represents unique challenges.

Massive weight loss patients present with a wide range of lower extremity deformities

What to expect?

First time in the office your doctor will discuss with you your options and determine if you are good candidate for this procedure. Medical history taking and a physical exam will be performed. Details of the procedure will be explained.

The procedure will be scheduled at an outpatient facility under general anesthesia.

Are there any contraindications to a thigh lift?

There are some contraindications to having this procedure done

1. Unstable weight (a 6-month weight plateau is needed)
2.  
3. Active smoking
4. High anesthesia risk, such as severe cardiopulmonary insufficiency.

What are the most common complications of a thigh lift?

Most common complications

1. Wound dehiscence. That means wound separation that is usually treated by dressing changes
2. This is generally treated by antibiotics
3. Bleeding/hematoma. This is usually self-limited.
4. This is a fluid collection that may have to be drained in the office.
5. This is localized swelling of the tissues that is usually treated by compression. It is very rare that this may persist and require further management.

Is thigh lift covered by insurance?

This procedure is rarely covered by insurance.

What should I expect after surgery?

This procedure is done in a hospital under general anesthesia. Your lower extremities will be wrapped with special foam, gauze and tape. 3 days after surgery you will be transitioned into a compression garment that you will have to wear for a few weeks. All sutures are absorbable and do not need to be removed. Surgical drains are not typically used for this procedure.

How long is the recovery period?

Depending on extend of the surgery and your overall health condition full recovery should be expected in about 6 weeks. Typically, patients will take off a week from work. Patients are usually able to drive the day after the surgery provided, they don’t use any prescription pain medication.

What is a thigh lift?

A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that addresses inner thigh excess skin and adipose tissue typically in patients after massive weight loss but not only. It is a two-step procedure that starts with liposuction of the inner thighs followed by excision of the excess skin. It is done under general anesthesia.

Why a thigh lift?

The acceptance of bariatric surgery as an effective and durable means of treating obesity has fueled a rise in individuals seeking body contouring following massive weight loss. The medial thighplasty can be designed to treat the varying amount of skin laxity.

The massive weight loss population is a fast-growing demographic within plastic surgery. It represents unique challenges.

Massive weight loss patients present with a wide range of lower extremity deformities

What to expect?

First time in the office your doctor will discuss with you your options and determine if you are good candidate for this procedure. Medical history taking and a physical exam will be performed. Details of the procedure will be explained.

The procedure will be scheduled at an outpatient facility under general anesthesia.

Are there any contraindications to a thigh lift?

There are some contraindications to having this procedure done

1. Unstable weight (a 6-month weight plateau is needed)
2.  
3. Active smoking
4. High anesthesia risk, such as severe cardiopulmonary insufficiency.

What are the most common complications of a thigh lift?

Most common complications

1. Wound dehiscence. That means wound separation that is usually treated by dressing changes
2. This is generally treated by antibiotics
3. Bleeding/hematoma. This is usually self-limited.
4. This is a fluid collection that may have to be drained in the office.
5. This is localized swelling of the tissues that is usually treated by compression. It is very rare that this may persist and require further management.

Is thigh lift covered by insurance?

This procedure is rarely covered by insurance.

What should I expect after surgery?

This procedure is done in a hospital under general anesthesia. Your lower extremities will be wrapped with special foam, gauze and tape. 3 days after surgery you will be transitioned into a compression garment that you will have to wear for a few weeks. All sutures are absorbable and do not need to be removed. Surgical drains are not typically used for this procedure.

How long is the recovery period?

Depending on extend of the surgery and your overall health condition full recovery should be expected in about 6 weeks. Typically, patients will take off a week from work. Patients are usually able to drive the day after the surgery provided, they don’t use any prescription pain medication.