Surgery to shape the thighs? Let's learn about Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

After losing a lot of weight, sometimes we wish we had a more toned body shape, right? Sagging skin, especially in the thigh area, is a problem that many people have. The thighs rub together when walking, which can be uncomfortable. So today we're talking about a cosmetic surgery that can be a solution to this problem.

What is a thigh lift?

Simply put, a Thigh Lift or Thighplasty is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin and fat from your thigh area, giving your thighs a beautiful, shapely appearance. This not only improves appearance, but also eliminates the pain and discomfort caused by thighs rubbing together, such as peeling skin.

Imagine that you have worked hard and lost a significant amount of weight. When this happens, sometimes the elasticity of our skin decreases, and the skin can sag in places like the thighs. This condition can cause things like:

• Dimpling or orange peel-like appearance of the skin (Cellulite).
• Rubbing your thighs together can cause redness, chafing , and possibly injury.
• Discomfort caused by sagging skin.
• Sometimes bleeding and skin discoloration.

Who is suitable for this surgery?

This surgery is not for everyone. A doctor will examine you carefully before deciding if you are a good fit. Typically, the following people are eligible:

• Non-smokers: Smoking can be a major obstacle to the healing process.
• People with well-controlled medical conditions: If you have a medical condition like diabetes, it is essential to keep it well-controlled. It is also important to be free of other medical conditions that could complicate the healing process.
• People who are at a stable weight: This surgery is best if you have reached your desired weight and have maintained that weight for at least a year. If you plan to lose more weight, it is best to have the surgery after you have reached that goal.

The final decision is made by your plastic surgeon. He or she will carefully examine your general health and medical history to determine whether you are suitable for this procedure.

How do you prepare before surgery?

Before your surgery, you should meet with your plastic surgeon. During this appointment, your doctor will explain the surgery in detail and answer any questions you may have. He or she will examine your skin and ask you what results you can expect. He or she will also explain any possible side effects. You may also be asked to take photos of your thighs before and after surgery to compare the results.

In addition, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery. For example, these instructions may include taking certain medications and quitting smoking if you smoke.

What happens during surgery?

This surgery is performed in a hospital or other approved operating room facility. Here are some things that typically happen on the day of surgery:

1. Marking the incisions: Before the surgery begins, the doctor will mark the incisions on your skin while you are standing.

2. Anesthesia: An anesthesiologist will completely anesthetize you (put you to sleep) so that you don't feel any pain during the surgery.

3. Making the incision: The doctor will make an incision in the groin area. Depending on the type of Thigh Lift you are having, this incision may extend down the back of the thigh, towards the knee, or around the hip and back.

4. Skin and fat removal: Next, the doctor removes excess fat, repositions the tissue, tightens the surrounding muscles, and trims any excess sagging skin.

5. Shaping: To stabilize the new shape of your thigh, sutures are applied to the tissues inside.

6. Closing the incision: Finally, the doctor closes the incision using stitches, clips, or a special skin adhesive.

Where do scars form? What are the types of surgery?

Yes, there will be scars after this surgery. The location and size of the scar will depend on which part of your thigh is being treated. There are different surgical techniques for this.

What happens after surgery and recovery time?

After surgery, you will be placed in a recovery area until you wake up from the anesthesia. You may need to stay in the hospital for a while, or you may be able to go home the same day, depending on your doctor's instructions. However, it is essential to have someone to drive you home after surgery.

Your doctor will give you instructions on how to care for your incisions after you go home. It is very important to get plenty of rest. You should avoid walking, moving around, and strenuous activities until your doctor gives you permission. You may have some pain and slight swelling in your thigh for a few days after surgery.

After about a week, you will need to go for a follow-up appointment to see how your wounds are healing.

Recovery time and final results

• First 10 days: You should rest your legs as much as possible. You may need to take time off from work or school during this time.
• About 6 weeks: You may need to wear a special compression garment during this time. Most people can resume their daily activities within 6 weeks.
• About 6 months: Although the incisions heal in about 6 weeks, it may take up to 6 months for the swelling to completely subside. The final results will be clearly visible only after 6 months.

The scars will fade over time, but they will not disappear completely. Also, as you age or gain weight again, the firmness of your thighs may decrease to some extent.

The benefits and possible risks of this surgery

Like any surgery, this one has its benefits and some risks.

If you have these symptoms, inform your doctor immediately.

It is very important to inform your doctor immediately if any complications occur after surgery. Be on the lookout for the following symptoms:

• Abnormal bleeding.
• Fever or chills (may be signs of infection).
• Extreme pain when touching the incision site.
• Swelling in the leg.
• Pain that cannot be controlled even with medication.
• The wound does not show significant progress in healing within the first two weeks.