Thigh lift surgery, also known as “thighplasty”, reshapes the thighs by removing excessive loose skin and fat that can develop as a result of large volume weight loss. If you are considering a thigh lift surgery, we want you to be thoroughly informed about the procedure. Below is some helpful information. A personal consultation with Dr. Newen is the best way to obtain the additional information you will need.
Am I a good candidate for a thigh lift?
Thigh lift is ideal for patients who have developed excessively loose skin over the front and inner areas of the thighs. The skin of the thighs may appear to drape or fold over. The skin quality is very loose, and not improved by exercise or further weight loss. The thigh lift procedure will surgically remove the excessive skin so the thighs have a smoother and firmer appearance.
You may be a good candidate for a thigh lift if you have any one of the following conditions:
- You are at a stable weight and have no weight fluctuations above 15 pounds
- You have excessively loose skin of the inner and front areas of the thighs that has not responded to exercise.
Your personal consultation
During the consultation you will be asked about the results you expect to achieve from the thigh lift procedure. This will help Dr. Newen understand your expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved.
How will Dr. Newen evaluate me for a thigh lift?
The size and shape of the thighs, and the quality of the skin will be evaluated. Measurements and photos may be taken for your medical record. You should be prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, pregnancies, previous surgeries and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.
How is a thigh lift surgery performed?
Individual factors and personal preferences will determine the specific technique selected for your thigh lift. The surgery is done at our certified outpatient surgery center under general anesthesia. Improvement of the appearance and firmness of the thighs are immediately apparent.
The extent of skin laxity and the amount of excessive skin to be removed will determine if Dr. Newen will need to place an incision in the upper thigh fold below the pubis, or also require an inner thigh incision for more severe forms of excessive skin laxity.
How do I prepare for my thigh lift surgery?
You will be provided with complete information about what to do before your thigh lift surgery, and our staff will check up on you and make sure you are ready for your procedure. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well ahead of the surgery date. You will also be asked not to take certain medications which increase the risk of bleeding. Your thigh lift surgery will be performed on an outpatient basis, please be sure you have someone to drive you home and take care of you for at least the next 24 hours.
Thigh Lift Recovery – How will I look and feel initially?
It is important to realize that each individual’s recovery time will be different. You will be asked to restrict your activities and relax for at least a week. Generally, the greatest amount of swelling occurs 24 to 48 hours after surgery, but it may take several weeks before all swelling is resolved. You will be required to wear a compression garment over your thighs for 6-8 weeks. After surgery, there may be a temporary feeling of numbness, pain, swelling, and bruising.
The types of symptoms experienced and the duration of the symptoms vary in patients. Most patients return to work within a week.
Understanding risks
Significant complications from a thigh lift is very rare. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and risks. The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis during your consultation with Dr. Newen. After surgery, there may be a temporary feeling of pain, swelling, and bruising.
Your surgical experience
Our goal is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible. If you’re a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. You will be provided with complete preoperative and postoperative instructions.
Thigh lift surgery is performed at Huntington Surgery Center, our outpatient surgery facility located within The Image Center. Please be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
For more information
For more information on thigh lift surgery or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (714) 230-2430.