THIGH LIFT
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A thigh lift combats excessive fat and sagging skin in the upper legs. With a combination of liposuction and skin removal, it decreases the circumference of your thighs. The result is a tighter and more aesthetic appearance than builds confidence in your body.
At Linville Plastic Surgery Houston, we offer the best and latest in thigh lift procedures. Dr. Linville uses a combination of skill and experience to deliver top-quality results that are unparalleled.
The procedure is often an excellent choice for individuals who are experiencing sagging skin from weight loss or pregnancy. Additionally, if your skin has simply become lax as you’ve aged, a thigh lift can work to address this.
How a Thigh Lift Works
A thigh lift, also known as a thighplasty, is a straightforward process. Typically, patients are released on the same day as their surgery. The procedure itself rarely lasts more than three hours. A combination of precise incisions and targeted liposuction work together to tighten target areas on the thighs. When in the hands of an expert surgeon like Dr. Linville, you will be in and out in no time.Anesthesia
General anesthesia or an epidural are both available for the patient to keep them comfortable throughout the operation. Dr. Linville will discuss this during the consultation to choose which is right for you.
General anesthesia will keep you sedated. An epidural is more focused and will generate loss of sensation below the waist to avoid discomfort. There are health factors to be considered with either one, so be sure to discuss it openly with Dr. Linville.
The Procedure
Size and incision patterns can vary from patient to patient. There are multiple types of thigh lifts, and each can target a slightly different area.
However, thigh lifts typically start with an incision in the groin area. Skin and fat can be removed as needed, depending on the amount and location. Dr. Linville will discuss what your procedure will precisely look like with you prior to operating.
The underlying tissue is resculpted to a tighter point. Finally, Dr. Linville lifts the remaining skin and sutures it, creating a smooth result.
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Types of Thigh Lift
Depending on the area of thigh you want to target, there are a few options. Dr. Linville will work with you to determine which of these will bring you the best results.
- Inner Thigh Lift – works to address lower section of inner thigh
- Medial Thigh Lift – works to address both skin and fat lingering on the upper inner thigh
- Bilateral Thigh Lift – targets the outer and front thigh
What is the Downtime and Recovery for a Thigh Lift?
Immediately following the operation, there will be typical swelling, bruising, and general soreness in the area. Compression garments are provided to keep down the swelling and facilitate healing. Both pain medication and anti-inflammatory medication are usually prescribed to alleviate discomfort.
In some cases, drains will be put in place. These are used to collect excess fluid around the incision sites. A damp area can more easily lead to infection, so keeping fluid in check is an integral part of recovery. If drains are needed, Dr. Linville will instruct you on all you need to know about these healing tools.
Dry and Clean
Surgical sutures should remain in place for about two weeks. During this time, you’ll need to keep physical activity to a bare minimum. The area should be kept dry as well. The use of bathtubs or swimming pools is to be avoided. A dry area heals much faster.
Showering after 48 hours, or as prescribed by Dr. Linville, is an option though.
Total Downtime for Thigh Lift
When considering a thigh lift, be prepared to take about 7-10 days off work. Once you return, still be careful around the surgical sites. Keep them dry and do everything you can not to irritate them.
Be prepared to put normal physical activity on hold for about 4-6 weeks. Once you have approval from Dr. Linville, you can resume your usual workout and physical routines.
Risks and Scarring
There will be an initial amount of scarring at the incision areas. However, Dr. Linville uses your body’s natural creases to hide them.
As time goes by, they will naturally fade and become even less noticeable.
Any other risks will be discussed during the consultation. It is essential to be open about your health and medical history before deciding on undergoing treatment.
When Can I See Thighplasty Results?
There will be an immediate change to the appearance of your thighs after the procedure. However, it is essential to keep in mind that it will take some time before you see the complete results.
The swelling right after the procedure can make determining the results difficult. But, after a few months, you will start to see drastic changes.
Am I a Candidate for a Thigh Lift?
Thighplasty works best for individuals who have loose skin as a result of aging, pregnancy, or extreme weight loss. In such cases, the process will be more straightforward.
For those looking to remove excess fat, there is a chance that other procedures might work better. There is a liposuction component, but thigh lifts work best once you’ve approached your target weight. The surgery then tightens up the remaining skin and removes any lingering fat.
If you are looking only to address cellulite, we have alternatives that might work better for you. Cellulite can be attacked with Cellfina, but if you feel the skin is sagging, it may be time to lift things back into place.
Thigh Lift Houston
Dr. Linville and his team at Linville Plastic Surgery are ready to discuss your goals and work with you toward achieving them. Part of our mission is to deliver personalized procedures. We understand that every person’s body is unique. It follows that every procedure is tailored to the patient’s individual needs.