What is a Thigh Lift in New York City with Dr. Shridharani?
A thigh lift removes excess skin and in some cases — fat from the inner thighs. A thigh lift will improve the contour of the thighs leaving the skin smoother and tightened.
Why consider a Thigh Lift with Dr. Shridharani?
If you have lost a considerable amount of weight, which has left you with excess skin around your thighs, a thigh lift may be the best option for you. A thigh lift is often a solution when exercise and weight loss has not resulted in the desired firmer and more youthful-looking legs. During your consultation with Dr. Shridharani, he will discuss your desired results and discuss if a thigh lift is right for you.
What are the benefits of a Thigh Lift?
Thigh lift surgery is a contouring procedure that makes the thighs look slimmer. In contouring the thighs, this procedure can accomplish significant objectives. Examples include:
- Reduce stubborn fat from the inner or outer thigh
- Reduce the appearance of stretch marks
- Reduce the frequency or likelihood of skin infections due to redundant skin
- Expand clothing options
- Improve the proportions between the upper and lower body
- Increase self-confidence
Mini Thigh Lift at LUXURGERY
I am more concerned about the fat on my inner and outer thighs, should I still consider a Thigh Lift?
Thigh lifts are not intended strictly for the removal of excess fat. With the use of liposuction, excess fat can be removed where the skin has good elasticity and is able to naturally conform to new body contours. In cases where skin elasticity is poor, a combination of liposuction and thigh lift techniques may be recommended. With the use of liposuction in conjunction with a thigh lift, the overall contour of your thighs can be dramatically improved.
How should I prepare for a Thigh Lift?
Patients may undergo lab tests as part of their pre-surgery workup and can expect to receive full pre-operative instructions from our office. Additionally, we are available during business hours to answer questions that may arise. Some of the instructions that patients may be given include:
- Stop smoking for at least two weeks before surgery.
- Limit alcohol consumption for at least one week before surgery.
- Avoid certain medications and supplements as advised by your doctor.
- If there is redundant skin, it must be kept clean and dry to minimize the risk of pre-surgery infection.
- Eat a well-balanced diet that includes lean protein to help prepare the body for maximum healing.
- Get sufficient sleep in the weeks leading up to surgery.
- Exercise regularly to support optimal circulation and weight management.
- Arrange for a friend or loved one to drive to and from the surgery center.
- Preparing for Recovery
- Patients can reduce the stress of recovery by planning early:
- Arrange the necessary time off.
- Fill prescriptions during the week before surgery.
- Arrange for a few days of aftercare; someone who can administer pain medications in a timely manner and empty surgical drains.
- Read through post-op instructions and make notes of important details to remember. Call our office if you have questions about your post-op instructions.
How is a Thigh Lift Performed?
Thighplasty may focus on one or more areas of the upper leg. These include the inner thigh, medial thigh, and outer thigh. A bilateral thigh lift may be done to lift the front and outside of the upper leg. The location of the incision for this procedure may depend on the area of focus. For example, a medial thigh lift that tightens tissue on the inner thigh may be performed using an incision made from the groin area to the crease of the buttocks. Incision lines may be marked before surgery, while the patient is standing. They are made in the most discreet areas possible.
Before tissue tightening is performed, minor liposuction may be done to remove excess fatty deposits that may interfere with optimal contouring. To tighten the thighs, the surgeon pulls tissue into the ideal shape and places deep sutures to secure internal layers. The skin is pulled over the new muscle and fat contours, trimmed and secured with external stitches.
Drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation in the surgical area. If drains are placed, they need to be emptied several times a day. They are usually removed during our first post-surgical follow-up visit.
How long does a Thigh Lift procedure take?
Thigh lifts are performed in an accredited outpatient surgery center. The procedure takes approximately 2 hours. After surgery, patients are transferred to a monitored recovery room where they will stay until their anesthesia has worn off enough for them to be alert and able to walk.
What type of anesthesia will be used during my Thigh Lift?
A thigh lift can be performed under twilight sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Shridharani and his anesthesiologist will recommend the best option for you during your consultation.
Where is the scar located for my Thigh Lift?
Incisions vary based on the areas to be treated, degree of correction, and amount of skin hanging. One technique used for a thigh lift is placing the incisions in the groin, extending downward, and wrapping around the back of the thigh. The underlying tissue matrix will be reshaped and tightened, and skin will be reduced and re-draped resulting in more proportionate and smoother body contours. You may qualify for a minimal incision medial thigh lift that involves an incision only in the groin area. Dr. Shridharani will review your thigh lift incisions during your consultation.
Is a Thigh Lift permanent?
We expect thigh lift results to last many years. Incision scars can continue to lighten for as long as 12 months. The tighter appearance achieved during surgery can last many years, especially when a healthy lifestyle is lived after the procedure. With age, some loosening of the skin is inevitable. However, as long as weight is maintained, the thighs should never revert back to their pre-lift appearance.
What to expect during recovery?
After your thigh lift, we ask for you to wear a compression garment to minimize swelling and to support your new contour as you heal. Dr. Shridharani and his team will discuss with you at length what to expect after your procedure.
When will I see the results of my Thigh Lift?
The results are visible immediately. However, it may take six months to a year to see the final results. Following a thigh lift, skin quality is dramatically improved both in appearance and feel. Swelling may be visible for several weeks to months after your thigh lift. Your scar will continue to soften up to a year after surgery, leaving a very fine line.
Thigh Lift Before & After
What are the risks of a Thigh Lift?
The risks that are discussed regarding thigh lift surgery include:
- Surgical anesthesia reactions.
- Unfavorable scarring.
- Hematoma, blood accumulation in the surgical area.
- Seroma, fluid accumulation in the surgical area.
- Infection.
- Poor wound healing.
- Wound dehiscence, the separation of superficial and deep layers of tissue.
- Changes in skin sensation, such as lingering numbness.
- Suture granuloma.
- Contour irregularities.
- Asymmetry.
- Lingering pain.
- Nerve damage.
Thigh lift surgery is generally considered safe when conducted by a board-certified plastic surgeon. This specialist has completed specific training in reconstructive procedures and understands the inherent risks associated with plastic surgery.
When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
Due to the friction in the thigh area during exercise, we ask that you wait to resume exercise for four to six weeks after your procedure.
Schedule Your Consultation Today With Dr. Shridharani
If you’re interested in learning more about Thigh Lift Surgery, or if you wish to determine whether you are a candidate for the procedure, please book a personalized consultation with Dr. Sachin Shridharani. Call 212.508.0000 or click here to fill out our contact us form. We will discuss your needs and concerns, and help you determine your best course of action.