About
A thigh lift procedure helps eliminate excess skin and at times, extra fat also from the inside of the thigh, the outside, and from the knee. A thigh lift addresses the sagging skin in the area, but Dr. Wallach may also involve the use of liposuction for removal of excessive fat. During your consultation, he will help you determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure and the extent of surgery required for your specific case. The length of the incisions used will depend on the amount of skin that is to be removed during the procedure and the area that requires treatment; it also determines the length of your surgery and your recovery time. Your scarring from the procedure will also depend on the incisions.
Procedure
Dr. Wallach ensures that your incisions are made in discreet areas of the thigh so that scarring remains hidden while it also allows him the best location to access the skin, tissue, and fat for removal. Usually, the incisions for your procedure are placed in the groin area, right above your bikini line. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and you can go home the same day. However, if you underwent extensive surgery, you may be required to stay in the hospital for a day or two. For an extensive surgery, the incisions may be placed around your thighs and near the buttocks as well. In case of severe drooping or when you require a knee lift as well, there might be vertical incisions along the side of your leg too.
Excessive skin, tissue, and fat are removed during the thigh lift procedure. The remaining skin, ligaments, and muscles are supported with sutures that are deeply placed within the tissues. After your surgery, drainage tubes might be placed in the area for collection of excessive fluids and for reducing swelling. You will also wear a compression garment for a few days or even a couple of weeks that will help reduce the swelling and help support the new contours.
Recovery
You will be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to be taken for a few days after the procedure to manage any discomfort. Most men will have to take about 2 weeks off work to recuperate. You should also not drive during this time. You will be able to return to your normal activities within 6 weeks and strenuous activities soon thereafter.
Risks
Every surgical procedure has some risks and complications involved with it. Some rare complications of the thigh lift procedure are hematoma and deep vein thrombosis. You will be informed about all the possible risks of the procedure during your consultation with Dr. Wallach. If you are a vascular patient, then you are not a good candidate for this procedure. Those who are poorly controlled diabetics , or are generally in poor health may not be candidates for a thigh lift either.
There are several benefits of the procedure. If you have excessive, sagging skin on the thigh, this can help to rid you of that. When you lose weight and wish to get more active and wear clothes that you like, sagging skin on the thigh can hinder it. With a thigh lift, you can follow an active lifestyle and get a wardrobe of your choice. Even though the surgery means getting some scars, most men do not mind them when compared to the tighter and smoother skin they will achieve with the surgery.