Thigh Lift
A thigh lift is performed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper legs. Candidates typically suffer from loose, inelastic skin after extreme weight loss due to diet, exercise or bariatric surgery. Because of this, the procedure is often combined with others such as breast lifts, facelifts, and arm lifts to retain an attractive body proportion.
In a medical thigh lift (inner thigh lift), the surgical incision is made in the inner thigh along the line where the leg meets the groin. In a lateral thigh lift (outer thigh lift), the incision is made from the groin around the back of the body, so that the buttocks are lifted along with the thigh.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Thigh Lift?
The best candidates for a thigh lift are healthy individuals who want to correct sagging skin and excess fat along the inner or outer thigh. People with medical conditions that affect healing may not be considered for this procedure.
Other lifestyle habits like drinking alcohol and smoking can also lead to slower healing and excessive bleeding. It is best for thigh lift candidates to refrain from alcohol for at least 48 hours and to quit smoking for 4 to 6 weeks before and after a thigh lift surgery.
This procedure is also the best for people with a BMI of less than 30. A stable and normal weight can greatly lower the chance of infections and impaired healing.
Before undergoing a thigh lift, candidates should be committed to a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and exercise.
Your Thigh Lift Consultation
A thigh lift consultation will involve a detailed conversation about your appearance goals. Dr. Nagy will discuss surgical techniques and set realistic expectations.
Be ready to provide your complete medical history, including current prescriptions and any allergies. This information allows Dr. Nagy to assess your eligibility and plan a safe procedure for you.
The Procedure
A thigh lift procedure will begin with administering general anesthesia. Once the anesthesia takes effect, Dr. Nagy will start creating incisions to lift the inner and/or outer thigh. Incision type and pattern will be discussed during the consultation.
Once the incisions have been made, excess skin will be removed with a scalpel. Excess fat will be removed via liposuction. Finally, incisions will be closed with sutures to support the newly created contours.
The Recovery Process
The full recovery process for a thigh lift procedure can take up to six weeks. On the day of your surgery, have someone drive you home and accompany you for the rest of the day.
Be sure to follow Dr. Nagy’s instructions carefully. Your thighs will be wrapped in bandages, and small drainage tubes may be placed under your skin to drain fluids while you are healing.
Wear compression garments until the fourth week, and change your bandages two to three days after the day of surgery. Expect swelling and bruising during recovery, and avoid stretching your thighs during the healing process.
In one to two weeks, drains and stitches will be removed during a follow-up office visit. After two weeks, minimal movement is encouraged to prevent blood clots. You may resume most activities one to two months after your thigh lift surgery.
Set Up a Consultation to Get Started
Take the first step towards sculpted and toned thighs – contact the office of Dr. Michael Nagy today. During a consultation, Dr. Nagy will answer any questions you may have.