What is a Thigh Lift?
After major weight loss, pregnancy, or simply the natural aging process, loose skin on the thighs can disrupt a toned or athletic look and result in sagging or uncomfortable chafing and folds. A thigh lift sculpts the area, removing excess skin and fat from the area for a streamlined look. Dr. Maxwell offers thigh lifts for her Tucson patients, often combining the procedure with other body contouring options such as a body lift or tummy tuck to address loose skin throughout the body.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Thigh Lift?
Many patients who have lost a considerable amount of weight, whether through diet and exercise or bariatric surgery, are good candidates for a thigh lift. The procedure is designed to remove loose skin and reshape tissues for patients who are now at a healthy and stable weight. Before choosing a thigh lift, you should be at a stable weight for about six months to ensure that your results will be long-lasting. Dr. Maxwell will also review your health history and any medications or supplements you take to make sure that surgery is a safe option for you. For example, patients who take blood-thinning medications may not be good candidates, as these can complicate surgery or the healing process. Those who smoke may also be advised against thigh lift surgery or should quit before their procedure, as smoking slows the healing process.
Anesthesia and Sedation
Thigh lifts are performed under general anesthesia, so you will be completely asleep throughout the procedure.
Incision and Skin Removal
Dr. Maxwell will make an incision either in the groin, along the inside of the thigh, or from the groin to the outer hip, depending on your unique anatomy and desired results. Scars from these incisions will be subtle, following the natural contours of the body, and generally well-hidden by most clothing.
Excess Skin and Fat Removal
Once incisions are made, excess skin can be removed, and the underlying tissues can be lifted and reshaped for the desired contour. Fat can also be removed, typically using liposuction.
Closure and Post-Procedure Care
When these steps are complete, Dr. Maxwell will close the incisions with sutures, and may also use skin adhesives to support the new contours.
Dressings and compression garments can then be placed to support proper healing when the surgery is complete.
Recovery and Results After a Thigh Lift
After your thigh lift, you may have drains in place to reduce swelling and promote healing. If this is the case, Dr. Maxwell will give you instructions on caring for your drains through the healing process. Most patients will experience bruising, swelling, and some discomfort after a thigh lift, but pain medication can be prescribed to keep you comfortable. You will also wear compression garments to reduce swelling and encourage the tissues to heal in the desired new contour. Typically, patients can return to normal, non-strenuous routines, including work, about a week to two weeks after their thigh lift. Dr. Maxwell will advise when you have healed enough to return to your exercise routine or other strenuous activities; this usually occurs about four weeks after surgery. Once swelling dissipates, you will see toned, smooth thighs without the loose skin you once had.