Illness or massive weight loss can result in such a decrease in adipose tissue in the upper leg and thigh area, that skin becomes loose and distorts your leg outline. You might find it impossible to tauten the excess skin through sensible eating and exercise. While massage might give results in the longer term, plastic surgery might be the answer for you. Before seeing a surgeon, discuss your plans with your family doctor, who can offer advice and guidance as well as forward any important medical details to the surgeon.
Thigh Lift Surgery
Thigh lift surgery, also known as a leg lift, involves removing excess fat and loose skin around the upper inner thigh areas with a combination of liposuction and skin excision. During surgery, incisions are made along the groin line round to the line of the buttocks, and usually down the inner side of the leg to the knee. Once excess fat has been removed, the skin is drawn up and the excess trimmed away. The skin is then sutured to give a tighter line.
Contraindications
Elective thigh lift surgery and anesthesia are not recommended for anyone who is not physically fit and has not achieved a stable weight plateau. Even though this is esthetic surgery, it is still a major operation and carries attendant health risks as does any other surgical procedure. Smoking is also a main contraindication, not only as an anesthetic risk but because your blood supply is already likely to be compromised, leading to poor wound healing and possible blood clotting. Smoking may also slow down your post-operative recovery and healing rate.
Post-Operative Recovery
You will probably stay in hospital for one to two days to recover from the anesthetic, and for your scars and dressings to be monitored. You will have pain relief and you may have a small vacuum drain inserted in one or both thighs. Tight bandaging or a compression garment prevents fluid leaking into the operative areas and molds the skin to a smoother outline. Bruising or swelling will ease with time, and you can return to your usual exercise regime within four weeks as long as you have no post-operative problems.
Preparing for Consultation
Before you consult a surgeon, research your options very carefully. Verify the qualifications and experience of the surgeon you choose, as well as checking for membership of a bona fide professional plastic surgery association. Make a list of all the questions you want to ask. You might also be referred for psychological assessment, not to dissuade you from surgery or to imply that you have mental health problems, but to ensure that your expectations are realistic and that any current emotional issues are dealt with before surgery.
References
- MayoClinic.org: Thigh Lift at Mayo Clinic
- British Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons: Body Reshaping
- PlasticSurgery.com: Leg Lift Information
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Thigh Lift
- Harley Medical Group: Thigh Liff
- BMJ; Stopping Smoking Could Speed Recovery After Operations; M. Houston; August 2003
Member Comments