Thighplasty (Thigh Lift): Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview of Thighplasty
By removing excess skin and fat from the thighs, a thighplasty, commonly called a thigh lift, reshapes and contours the thighs. As a result of this cosmetic surgery, the thighs look smoother, firmer, and younger due to removing sagging skin, cellulite, and stubborn fat deposits. A thighplasty is often sought by individuals with loose, sagging skin on the thighs after losing significant weight, aging, or genetics.
Preparation
A board-certified plastic surgeon typically consults patients before undergoing thighplasty surgery. A surgeon assesses a patient's thigh anatomy, discusses the patient's aesthetic goals, and explains the available surgical options during this consultation.
Preoperative tests, including blood tests and medical evaluations, may be required to ensure patients are healthy and suitable for surgery. In addition, the surgeon may provide preoperative instructions regarding medications to avoid, dietary restrictions, and lifestyle modifications before the procedure.
Procedure
To ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure, thighplasty surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The procedure generally involves the following steps:
-
Depending on the extent of correction needed and the anatomy of the patient, the surgeon makes incisions along the inner thigh, groin crease, or outer thigh.
-
To achieve the desired contour and firmness, the surgeon removes excess skin and fat from the thighs through incisions. Liposuction may also be performed to remove localized fat deposits and refine the shape of the thighs further.
-
The incisions are then closed with sutures, and any necessary drains are placed to prevent fluid buildup during the initial recovery period. The remaining skin is then tightened and redraped over the thigh contours.
Depending on the extent of correction needed and whether additional procedures are performed concurrently, such as a lower body lift or buttock augmentation, the entire procedure typically takes two to four hours.
Recovery
During the initial recovery period after thighplasty surgery, patients can expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. The surgeon may prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort.
After surgery, patients should follow their surgeon's instructions, which may include:
-
After surgery, patients should plan to take time off work and avoid strenuous activities for at least two to four weeks to facilitate proper healing.
-
Wearing compression garments around the thighs can help minimize swelling and promote healing.
-
To prevent infection and promote optimal healing, patients should keep their incision sites clean and dry as instructed by their surgeon.
-
To ensure proper healing, patients should attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with their surgeon.
After thighplasty surgery, most patients are able to return to their normal daily activities within four to six weeks, although full recovery may take several months as swelling gradually resolves and the final results are visible.
Risks
There are potential risks and complications associated with thighplasty surgery, including:
-
Infection
-
Bleeding
-
Poor Wound Healing
-
Scarring
-
Asymmetry
-
Numbness or Altered Sensation
Prior to undergoing surgery, patients should discuss these risks with their surgeon and carefully weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
Aftercare
In order to ensure proper healing after thighplasty surgery, patients should attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with their surgeon. The surgeon may provide additional instructions for scar care, skincare, and gradual activity resumption.
In order to achieve optimal results from thighplasty surgery, patients must follow postoperative instructions and allow adequate time for recovery.
