Thigh lift surgery is an excellent way to achieve firmer and more attractive-looking upper legs. This procedure is ideal for those who have loose, excess skin as a result of weight loss. Thigh lift, or thighplasty, can help tone and refine your legs so you can show off a sleeker physique. There are several different types of thigh lifts that target certain areas for specific results.
What types of procedures are available for thigh lifts?
Orange County plastic surgeon Dr. Savalia will discuss your treatment options with you during your consultation. This consultation will help determine what, if any, type of thigh lift surgery is right for you.
- Inner thigh lift (medial). A medial thigh lift reduces excess skin and fat on the upper portion of the inner thigh. It is designed for patients who are dissatisfied with the shape of their legs or who would like to remove excess skin after an extreme weight loss. During a medial thigh lift, an incision is made in the groin that goes to the back of the crease of the buttock. Skin in then lifted and excess skin and fat are removed to improve the shape of the leg and tighten the skin.
- Outer thigh lift (lateral). A lateral thigh lift improves the appearance of sagging outer thighs. This procedure may be done in conjunction with liposuction of the outer thighs and is often done as part of a body lift. Sagging outer thighs together with fat accumulation are referred to as "saddle bags." An outer thigh lift helps correct this condition and restore a smooth, streamlined appearance.
Does a thigh lift leave scars?
Thigh lifts do leave scars. However, thigh lift scars are usually located in a relatively inconspicuous location, and in many cases, thigh lift scars are easily concealed by underwear or bathing suits.
What is the recovery like?
You may go home several hours after surgery or spend a day or two in the hospital, depending on the extent of your procedure. In general, you should walk around as soon as possible after surgery to reduce swelling. You may feel some pain and notice the swelling for the first few days after surgery; the pain will be controlled by oral medication.
Normally, your stitches will be removed within a week after surgery, though deeper sutures aren't removed for two or three weeks. You will be required to wear a support garment for few weeks to reduce swelling and will need to take antibiotics to prevent infection. Most of the swelling will disappear after three weeks, though some may remain for several months. You'll avoid strenuous activity for a month or so. You should be able to go back to work two weeks after surgery.
For more information on thigh lift, please call or email Dr. Savalia at our Orange County-area plastic surgery office. Contact Dr. Savalia, Orange County Thigh Lift Surgeon |
