Are you tired of wearing long pants all the time because you are embarrassed to reveal your thighs? If you would like to remove excess skin and fat from the upper inner or outer thighs then the thigh lift procedure may be for you. Many women suffer from loose, saggy skin that has a dimpled appearance (cellulite) after extreme weight loss due to diet, exercise or bariatric surgery causing them to be self conscious about their lower body. The thigh lift procedure will result in a tighter thigh and will decrease the dimpled appearance of the thigh.
What is a Thigh Lift?
The thigh lift tightens loose and sagging skin of the inner and/or outer thighs.
With the inner thigh lift, an ellipse of skin is removed just below the groin crease and the thigh skin and tissues are lifted up to the level of the groin crease as it extends toward the back of the inner thigh. This lifting effect then smooths the contours of the upper inner thigh. Keep in mind that the effect diminishes toward the knee so the results are most notable over the upper segment of the inner thigh. For those with more skin looseness, removal of skin down the inner thigh can improve tightness of the skin but the scar pattern is more extensive.
The outer thigh lift requires removal of skin over the hips so the scar extends around the hips toward the back. The effect is to lift the tissues of the upper outer thigh and elevate the buttock region as well.
Who is a Good Candidate?
- Someone with significant loose and sagging skin of the thighs
- Someone who has experienced loss of skin elasticity
- If your skin has a dimpled appearance (cellulite)
- If your thigh appearance improves dramatically when you lift the loose skin
- A healthy individual
- Non-smoker
- Realistic goals and expectations for body contouring
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The Thigh Lift Procedure:
Presently there is no other procedure that can restore the appearance and contours of the thighs other than a thigh lift.
Incisions are dependent on the location and extent of loose skin. Generally an outer thigh lift will require incisions from the groin, around the hip to the upper buttock area. These incisions are placed low on the body so the resultant scars are hidden under clothing. The inner thigh incision is placed in the groin crease but if there is extensive looseness of the skin, another incision may extend down the inner thigh toward the knee. The specific procedure is tailored to your needs based on the location and extent of loose skin.
Generally, the inner thigh lift and outer thigh lift are performed at two separate operations because of the specific positioning requirements after surgery. For example, after an inner thigh lift, it is important to keep the thighs together and avoid separating the legs. On the other hand, after an outer thigh lift, it is helpful to keep the legs separated. These maneuvers reduce the tension on the skin closure during the early healing period. Garments are generally worn for support and comfort.
Dr. Parva will be happy to evaluate and discuss your options based on your specific needs during the consultation appointment.
Recovery and Healing:
- Initial healing takes 10 to 14 days and sutures are usually under the skin and do not require removal.
- It is normal to experience some bruising, swelling and discomfort after the procedure.
- Drains are often used to prevent fluid build up under the skin and these are removed about one week after surgery.
- Compression garments are worn for at least 3 weeks and may continue for a longer period
- Position is important. You must avoid bending, strenuous activity or lifting for one to two week.
- Light activities are permitted within 2 weeks as you are able.
- Return to work and normal activities in a few weeks, but still avoiding heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.
- Sun protection is important and scar reduction techniques, such as garments and silicone gel, are helpful in the weeks and months to follow.
Results:
Noticeable results are seen immediately but it will take several months for swelling to settle and for the long term results to be evident.
Firmness and numbness may take months to improve and scars can take more than 1 year to fade. Scars however are permanent but hidden under clothing.
Your new contours are long lasting when you maintain body weight and fitness.
As your body ages, you will naturally lose some firmness.
Schedule Your Thigh Lift Consultation
Please contact Parva Plastic Surgery for your complimentary thigh lift consultation with Dr. Parva, board certified plastic surgeon today.