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Thigh and Buttock Lift
A thigh reduction a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the hips and inner thighs. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of sagging skin of the thigh but bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar, which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from your upper inner thigh in the groin crease, around your hip into the crease of your buttock. In instances where you have small to moderate fat deposits of the hips and inner thighs – liposuction alone will suffice and excision of skin and fat is unnecessary. For more information, see liposuction.
If you're considering an thigh reduction this section will give you a basic understanding of the procedure,when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on the individual patient and the surgeon. Please ask me about anything you don't understand.
The best candidates for an thigh reduction
The best candidates for an thigh reduction are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by moderate to large fat deposits and loose skin that won't respond to diet or exercise. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.
Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery.
A thigh reduction can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.
All surgery carries some uncertainty and risk
Thousands of thigh reductions are performed successfully each year. When done by a qualified plastic surgeon that is trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.
Post-operative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but can occur. Infection can be treated with drainage and antibiotics, but will prolong your hospital stay. You can minimise the risk of blood clots by moving around as soon after the surgery as possible.
Poor healing, which results in conspicuous scars may necessitate a second operation. Smokers should be advised to stop, as smoking may increase the risk of complications and delay healing.
You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following my instructions before and after the surgery, especially with regard to when and how you should resume physical activity.
Planning your surgery
In your initial consultation, I will evaluate your health, determine the extent of fat deposits in thighs, and carefully assess your skin tone. Be sure to tell me if you smoke, and if you're taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.
Please feel free to be frank in discussing your expectations about the procedure. I shall be equally frank with you, describing your alternatives and the risks and limitations of each.
In any case, I will work with you to recommend the procedure that is right for you and will come closest to producing the desired body contour.
During the consultation, I will explain the anaesthesia that I will use, the type of facility where the surgery will be performed, and the costs involved. In most cases, medical aids or insurance do not cover the cost of thigh reduction, but you should check your policy to be sure.
Preparing for your surgery
I will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins, and medications.
If you smoke, plan to quit at least one to two weeks before your surgery and not to resume for at least two weeks after your surgery. Avoid overexposure to the sun before surgery and do not go on a stringent diet, as both can inhibit your ability to heal. If you develop a cold or infection of any kind, your surgery will probably be postponed.
Where your surgery will be performed
I perform thigh reductions in an outpatient surgical centre.
Types of anaesthesia
I use general anaesthesia, so you'll sleep through the operation.
The surgery
Complete thigh reduction usually takes about two to three hours, depending on the extent of work required. For an inner thigh reduction, the incision extends from the groin area to the buttock on the upper inner thigh. Next, the loose skin and fat is separated from the inner portion of the thigh.
The skin flap is then stretched up and the extra skin and fat is removed. Finally, the incisions will be stitched, dressings will be applied, and a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site.
After your surgery
For the first few days, your arms will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort which can be controlled by medication. Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may be released within a few hours or you may have to remain hospitalised for one or two days.
I will give you instructions for showering and changing your dressings.
Surface stitches will be removed in five to seven days, and deeper sutures, with ends that protrude through the skin, will come out in two to three weeks. A support garment may replace the dressing on your incision.
Getting back to normal
It may take you weeks or months to feel like your old self again. If you start out in top physical condition, recovery from thigh reduction will be much faster. Some people return to work after two weeks, while others take up to three to rest and recuperate.
Exercise will help you heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably.
Your scars may actually appear to worsen during the first three to six months as they heal, but this is normal. Expect it to take nine months to a year before your scars flatten out and lighten in colour. While they'll never disappear completely, the scars on your upper arm will not show under most clothing.
You’re new look
Thigh reduction produces excellent results for patients with loose and flabby skin of the upper and outer thighs. And in most cases, the results are long lasting, if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly.
If you're realistic in your expectations and prepared for the consequences of a permanent scar and a lengthy recovery period, a thigh reduction may be just the answer for you.