A thigh lift reduces excess skin and fat in the knee and thigh area, which results in a slim and tense thigh. Candidates for a thigh lift are usually individuals who have lost massive amounts of weight due to weight loss surgery or people with saggy or loose tissue and skin on their thighs.

In this procedure, incisions are made on different areas and the excessive fat is removed through Liposuction. Then the excess skin is trimmed away, pulled together and sutured in place. As with all medical procedures, certain risks are associated with a thigh lift including anesthesia risks, swelling, asymmetry, infection, scarring, blood clots, or numbness and change in skin sensation.

Types of Thigh Lifts

There are different types of thigh lift. The most popular type is inner thigh lift, which involves incisions in the groin fold. This suits people with a moderate amount of skin and fat in the area best. An outer thigh lift requires an incision that extends from the groin around the hip. A vertical thigh lift involves a vertical incision stating at the groin crease extending to the inner knee. This procedure is more suitable for individuals with a significant amount of loose skin and fat. However, it will leave a scar visible when wearing for instance a bathing suit. Regardless of type, the procedure is similar. The incision is placed on different areas and the excessive fat is removed through liposuction. Then the excess skin is trimmed away, pulled together and sutured in place. The patient will have general anaesthesia. The length of the surgery varies on the type of thigh lift and whether or not it is combined with liposuction.
 

The Thigh Lift Recovery

Immediately after surgery, the smooth, tight contours will be visible in the treated area. However, there will be swelling, bruising and soreness. After three to four days the swelling will start to go away, but it might take three to five weeks until it is wholly gone. After surgery drainage tubes are inserted into the wound, and a compression garment will protect the area. As soon as possible, the patient should try to walk slowly. This will reduce the risk of blood clotting in the legs.

The Thigh Lift Risks

As with all medical procedures, certain risks are associated with a thigh lift. These include:
 

• Anaesthesia risks

• Swelling

• Asymmetry

• Infection

• Scarring

• Blood clots

• Numbness or other changes in skin sensation