An inner thigh lift is an extensive and invasive surgery that usually requires general anesthesia. This procedure lasts up to two hours and consists of a surgeon removing excess fat and skin from your upper thighs, as well as your groin area. In some cases, the surgeon will include liposuction in this procedure.
Post-Surgery
The hospital stay after an inner thigh lift usually lasts no more than one or two days. During the first two days at the hospital, medical professionals make sure you have no lingering effects from anesthesia. They also keep the surgical incision clean.
At Home
While at home, a person recovering from an extensive inner thigh lift should avoid strenuous physical activity, especially any activity that requires exertion from your lower body. Overdoing it may not only be painful, but will hinder the healing of your surgical wounds. You should spend the first two weeks after surgery resting. Complications to keep a look out for include stitch separation, wound infection, slow healing and skin sagging. Report any problems to your physician.
Full Recovery
Your recovery should take about six weeks. During the time following the initial two weeks, you may resume some physical activity, provided that the activity is light intensity and lower body involvement is minimal. Regular visits to your surgeon's office are required to check up on the healing of the wound and, if applicable, stitch removal. According to the Mayo Clinic, bruising and swelling should subside six weeks following the surgery. The final results of the procedure will be evident in approximately six months following the surgery.
Recurrence Prevention
Lifestyle changes are an important factor in preventing the buildup of fat and loose skin that made an extensive thigh lift necessary. Regular exercise combined with a healthy diet will prevent weight gain not only in your thighs, but in other portions of your body. It will also prevent the occurrence of a variety of other health issues.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Inner Thigh Lift at Mayo Clinic
- "Plastic and Microsurgey"; Artavazd Sahakyan; 2004
- Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery: Thigh Lift Surgery -- Thighplasty
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