After significant weight loss, many patients may feel excited about reaching their goal. However, some of them could feel anxious at the same time about the flaccidity that some parts of their body such as the legs may experience. This is why the thigh lift becomes a good alternative to provide a solution to this problem.

It is normal that the skin of the arms, abdomen or thighs does not retract as expected in some patients and the excess skin is concentrated in those areas giving a sagging appearance. 

So, we will focus on the flaccidity that could be seen in the thigh area for today and we will answer the main doubts about this type of body procedure as well as its recovery process.

What is a thigh lift?

Also known as thighplasty, cruroplasty or thigh dermolipectomy, it is a surgical procedure for both men and women to remove excess skin and fat from the thighs as a result of age, pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations [1]. 

The goal of a thighplasty is to lift and contour the thighs so that they appear slim and in proportion to the rest of the body. It can also be performed in conjunction with liposuction [5] to give the thighs a smoother and more toned appearance if it’s necessary.

The plastic surgeon makes a small incision on the inside of the thighs through which the excess fat is first removed, and then the excess skin is removed. The incisions made are as discreet as possible so that they are imperceptible and the healing is very aesthetic [2]. The area is sutured with absorbable stitches.

Benefits of a thigh lift

Some of the main advantages that patients receive when undergoing this plastic surgery are [4]: 

• Greater firmness of the thigh skin

• Reduction of the volume in the area, harmonizing better with the body contour

• Better body image and increased self-confidence.

• Elimination of excess skin in patients who have undergone previous weight reduction surgeries or procedures such as bariatric or post-bariatric procedures.

What is thigh lift recovery like?

It is a quick recovery outpatient procedure. Patients can leave the same day of surgery and resume their daily activities the next day, if they wish. However, they must follow all the medical recommendations given.

In most cases, plastic surgeons suggest avoiding non-strenuous exercises for the next two weeks after surgery, recommend the use of a compression garment on the legs for about a month, and encourage short walks for at least 10 minutes every hour. From the first month, you will be able to feel a better skin feel and observe great results in your body contour [2].

You may also be interested in reading: What causes sagging skin?

In summary

Thigh surgery or thighplasty reshapes this part of the body by reducing excess skin and making the contour look better proportioned. It is an outpatient procedure that both men and women can apply and recovery is usually fast.

The indication for this surgery is more common in patients after significant weight loss, but changes in the elasticity of the inner thigh can occur for other reasons such as aging and pregnancy. 

At BetterMe, we have a wide range of body surgeries that could be part of the change you are looking for. We invite you to contact us to ask any questions you may have about our prices in Colombia, travel plans, medical staff, etc., and to start your pre-consultation process with us.

Another post you might want to read: 10 things you need to know about plastic surgery in Colombia

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References:

[1] American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2022. Thigh Lift. [online] Available at: <https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/thigh-lift#:~:text=What%20is%20thigh%20lift%20surgery,the%20thighs%20and%20lower%20body.> [Accessed 26 May 2022].

[2] BetterMe – Become your best self. 2022. Dermolipectomía en piernas – BetterME. [online] Available at: <https://bettermegroup.com/es/dermolipectomia-en-piernas/> [Accessed 26 May 2022].

[3] Healthline. 2022. Thigh Lift: Types, Cost, Potential Side Effects & Recovery. [online] Available at: <https://www.healthline.com/health/thigh-lift#recovery> [Accessed 26 May 2022].

[4] Top Doctors. 2022. Thigh lift: what is it, symptoms and treatment | Top Doctors. [online] Available at: <https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-dictionary/thigh-lift#> [Accessed 26 May 2022].

[5] Verywell Health. 2022. Learn About the Basics of a Thighplasty Surgery. [online] Available at: <https://www.verywellhealth.com/inner-thigh-lift-surgery-2709901> [Accessed 26 May 2022].