WHY AND WHEN IS AN INNER THIGH LIFT PERFORMED?
This type of thigh lift helps people who have trouble eliminating excess fat from this area of the body through diet and exercise. An inner thigh lift may also be used to treat reduced skin elasticity caused by the aging process or extreme weight loss. During your inner thigh lift consultation, an experienced surgeon will thoroughly discuss your individual case and possible risk factors.
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE OPERATION?
This is usually an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. During an inner thigh lift, an incision is made at the junction of the thigh and pubic area. A wedge of skin, and possibly fat, is then removed and the skin is elevated and tightened to provide improved leg contour and enhanced skin elasticity. The procedure takes approximately 3 hours. Sometimes liposuction may be incorporated prior to or in conjunction with the inner thigh lift.
ARE THERE ANY COMPLICATIONS?
As with any surgery, there is always a possibility of bleeding, infection, skin irregularities, asymmetry and changes in skin sensation. There are general risks associated with general anesthetic such as aspiration of stomach content into the lungs which can cause serious illness or death. Therefore, to help prevent this it is mandatory that you do not eat or drink anything (usually 8 hours) preceding your surgery. Other risks include DVTs, (clots in the veins of the legs) which can break off and travel to the lungs, this is known as an embolus and although very rare, can be life threatening; especially in smokers. You will be encouraged to get up and walk around as soon as possible to reduce these risks.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
As with any surgery you can expect to experience some bruising and swelling. Due to the fact that the skin has been elevated, you may also notice a feeling of tightness in the thighs. This may be accompanied by some degree of pain but this is to be expected and can easily be controlled with pain medications.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE OPERATION?
You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you the first 24 hours after surgery. You may experience some discomfort which should be alleviated by the pain medications. You may use a compression garment for a few weeks to reduce swelling and to assist in the tightening of the skin. Drains may be placed to collect any fluid or oozing. Any dressings, drains or garments should only be removed by your surgeon. Sutures of the skin may be removed in 7-10 days.
WHEN CAN NORMAL ACTIVITIES RESUME?
You should plan to take 7-10 days off from work. Avoid strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks. The majority of the bruising and swelling subside in 6-8 weeks.
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