The upper legs can be one part of the body where sagging problems occur, especially in aging adults. Sagging skin on the thighs can make people self-conscious about its appearance. It can be toned through a vigorous exercise, but to a few individuals, it’s not effective. That’s the reason why there are people who go through a surgical procedure called thigh lift.
A thigh lift surgery or thighplasty is a surgical procedure that removes the excess skin and fat in the thighs.
It can be performed in either the inner or outer thighs. This surgery helps people achieve the shape of thighs and free from cellulite. Moreover, the surgery will result to a better-proportioned contour of the thighs as well as the lower body.
There are many techniques that you and your surgeon can choose for a thigh lift procedure. Your chosen surgeon will recommend the best one for you depending on your needs and preferences.
If you have issues in eliminating excess fat in your inner thighs, then the thigh lift technique is for you. Your doctor will do an incision on the intersection of the thighs and pubic area. The incisions on your inner thigh lift are discreet (since your underwear can cover it) while accessing the underlying tissues that make your thighs sag. Your doctor will remove a chunk of skin and fat on your thigh. Afterwards, he’ll tighten the remaining skin to give more contour of the thighs.
The outer thigh lift is a more complicated procedure compared to the inner thigh lift. It may require an incision from the groin area extending to the hip and across the back. This procedure will tighten the front and outer part of the leg. Your doctor will eliminate a little bit of skin, depending on your preference. He’ll also do it before tightening the remaining skin for more contoured thighs.
This procedure is best for people who have experienced dramatic weight loss which left them with sagging extra skin. It may also lift your buttocks as well.
The estimated cost of a thigh lift surgery is $4,863, and this is according to the 2016 statistics of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, the price varies due to factors like the surgeon’s fee, the location of the clinic, anesthesia, hospital costs, and prescription drugs.
This type of surgery is usually not covered by any health insurance. However, your doctor may offer patient financing plans which you may avail.
A thigh lift surgery is an ideal procedure for those who:
By: Dr. David Amron
A thigh lift surgery must be done by a certified and expert surgeon to accomplish the best results. An unqualified practitioner may lead to surgical complications and unsatisfying results. Keep these factors in mind when choosing a surgeon for your thigh lift surgery.
The initial consultation is your chance to inquire your surgeon about the surgery that you may be confused about. Be prepared to talk about your:
Your surgeon will evaluate your overall health to check if you’re fit for the surgery. He’ll also provide you with pre-operative instructions that you have to follow before the day of the operation.
Before the day of the operation, there are several things you have to do and not to do as a part of your preparation. Here are some of them:
For your proper and fast recovery, follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions. You have to take extra precautions and get plenty of rest after the procedure.
Right after the surgery, your incisions are bandaged, and thin tubes may be inserted to drain excess fluid. You may also be prohibited to sit down after the surgery so you can’t put pressure on the incisions.
Several weeks after the surgery, your sutures will be removed. Then, you can begin carefully sitting on your thighs.
Your complete recovery may take 6-12 months, and by that time, you can enjoy the full results of the surgery.
The result of a thigh lift surgery can’t be seen immediately. It needs a proper healing process before you can flaunt those beautifully contoured thighs. After 6-12 months, your skin quality’s appearance and feel will improve.
The procedure may leave scars. But, it’s guaranteed to last for a long time. Just always make sure you live a healthy lifestyle so you can maintain a stable weight. Also, make sure to have regular appointments with your surgeon for a follow-up evaluation.