Thigh Lift

March 18, 2014, 8:02 am

Saddlebags. Thunder thighs. Neither of these phrases brings to mind a slim, contoured body. Instead of focusing on the negative, turn your vision around. Your thighs are part of you, and you are beautiful. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t seek improvement. If you are healthy and fit, but your thighs just won’t respond to diet and exercise, a thigh lift might be the answer. A thigh lift, called thighplasty, will not only provide a better overall aesthetic appearance to your upper legs, but for many it may also mean greater physical comfort as you move and in terms of the fit of your clothes.

What does a thigh lift treat?

A thigh lift is designed to treat excess skin and tissue on the thighs. For many people these problems are due to the natural aging process and gravity, loss of skin elasticity, and weight changes, particularly after significant weight loss. Thigh lift surgery is also versatile in that it can treat the outer thigh, the inner thigh, or both and may include removing excess skin, tightening muscles and underlying tissues, or procedures such as liposuction to address unsightly stubborn fat deposits. Thighplasty is not a one-size-fits-all procedure — the exact approach and outcome will be tailored to your particular needs.

Who is a candidate?

The ideal candidate for thighplasty is in overall good health, at a stable body weight, a non-smoker, and has a realistic understanding of what a thigh lift can and can’t do. Be sure to disclose any medical problems, past surgical history, and a list of medications and supplements that you use to Dr. Hlavacek during your consultation. This information will help Dr. Hlavacek not only determine which approach to thigh lift surgery is right for you, but also the possible outcomes you may expect, and whether you are a good candidate for surgery to begin with.

What is thigh lift surgery like?

Thigh lift surgery is typically a two to three hour procedure in which excess skin and tissue is surgically removed, and often includes liposuction to slim, smooth, and recontour the upper thigh. General anesthesia is used, and whenever possible incisions are hidden in the natural creases at the top of the thighs. The surgery ends with sutures and bandaging, and patients typically also have temporary drains to allow for the removal of any fluid collection. Compression bandages are also applied to help minimize swelling and bruising during your recovery.

What is recovery like?

After your surgery, you will experience some discomfort for a few weeks as your body heals. Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal. Your activities will be restricted for the first several weeks following surgery, but you should able to get up, walk, and perform light activities after a few days. During the recovery period, you will continue to wear compression bandages until swelling and bruising have subsided, and you will have oral medications to help minimize pain and discomfort. By wearing your compression bandages and taking your medications as directed, you will speed your healing and reduce associated risks. While bruising and swelling will go down within several weeks, it may be several months before the scars from the incisions fade and flatten.

What are the risks?

• Thighplasty, like all surgical procedures, carries associated risks. The most common risks include, but are not limited to:
• Blood clots
• Excess bleeding, bruising, or swelling
• Anesthesia and medication reactions
• Nerve damage and sensory changes
• Excess scarring

Dr. Hlavacek and everyone at Kansas City Surgical Arts wishes to ensure your comfort and safety during your cosmetic surgery journey. We understand that your reasons for pursuing surgery are personal, and it is our goal to address your goals and concerns thoroughly to ensure the best possible outcomes for your needs.

Ready for the next step?

If you are unhappy with your thighs and would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hlavacek to discuss your options for thighplasty, call us today at 816-286-4126. We look forward to partnering with you on your cosmetic surgery journey.