The thigh lift operation removes redundant skin and fat from the inner thigh to help produce a more defined and contoured shape. The operation may be performed alone or in combination with a lower body lift or abdominoplasty.
The operation is best suited for patients who are near their ideal body weight, but have excess thigh skin and fat resulting from significant weight-loss or pregnancy.
The operation is performed under a general anesthetic and an incision is typically made in the groin region and medial thigh. Dr. Cooper will remove excess tissue in order to tighten the thigh and improve its contour. Deep absorbable sutures are placed to support the tissue left behind, and a drainage tube is placed as well to prevent fluid buildup. Patients may go home the same day as the operation.
After the procedure, patients may expect mild bruising, swelling, and moderate discomfort. Results will be immediately visible and will improve with time as swelling decreases. Patients are encouraged to walk the evening of the operation, and many patients will find that 10 days to 2 weeks off of work is best while incisions are healing. Results can be permanent. However, if substantial weight is gained after this procedure, the results may become less noticeable.
Although complications are uncommon, they include infections, bleeding, fluid collections, over versus under-correction, delayed healing, and even rarer still, blood clots in the legs or lungs. Dr. Cooper will review all the risks and benefits with you prior to your procedure and discuss the ways that these risks can be minimized.
I found Dr. Cooper through a friend who's a nurse and highly recommended him. Dr. Cooper has a very nice, calm, pleasant bedside manner and made me feel comfortable and at ease.