Are there visible scars after a thigh lift?
In most cases, a curved horizontal scar can be used and placed in the groin crease. There tends to be a small amount of downward migration of the scar due to gravity, but it is usually not noticeable except in a very revealing bathing suit. If there is a very large amount of excess skin, such as the amount often seen after gastric bypass, a vertical scar along the inner thigh may be necessary as well.
Can I have liposuction instead of a thigh lift?
Most patients are in fact good candidates for liposuction alone and will have a very satisfactory result. However, the quality of the final result depends on the ability of your skin to shrink after the fat has been removed, and in some cases there will be some residual loose skin. If you are not satisfied with the tightness of the inner thighs after liposuction, a thigh lift can be considered. If large amounts of loose skin are already present, then liposuction alone will probable not fulfill your needs.
What are the risks of a thigh lift?
Complications resulting from a thigh lift are very uncommon but they do occasionally occur and they must be considered before you have surgery. There are two categories of risks for a thigh lift: the general risks associated with all surgical procedures and the risks that are specific to the procedure.
The general risks include the risks associated with a general anesthesia, bleeding, infection, and scar formation. The scars may be visible in a bathing suit even if they are hidden in the groin crease because gravity causes a small amount of scar migration. Delays in healing may also occur because the closure has to be tight enough to get a good result. There may be some numbness of the thighs or legs if nerve branches are included in the skin removed. In rare instances, there may be compromise of the nerves, muscles or blood vessels because of compression due to excess swelling.
A thigh lift is a safe and predictable cosmetic surgery procedure, and it will also enhance the appearance of other body contouring procedures, such as tummy tuck and liposuction.
Who is a candidate for a thigh lift?
The best candidate for a thigh lift is someone who has lost a large amount of weight and is left with loose, baggy skin along the inner thigh. Patients who have developed loose skin because of the aging process or prior surgery such as liposuction may also be excellent candidates. If there is an excess amount of fat in the lower part of the inner thigh or knee, it can be treated with liposuction at the same time.
To learn more about the thigh lift, including candidacy, safety concerns, and other matters, please contact Renaissance Plastic Surgery online or call 317-575-9152 to book a consultation with Dr. Fata at our Indianapolis, Indiana office.
