After significant weight loss, many individuals are left with saggy skin and stubborn pockets of fat in various parts of the body. The inner thighs are a common area where excess skin and fat can accumulate, causing discomfort and self-consciousness. This is where a thigh lift surgery, also known as a thighplasty, can help.
What is a Thigh Lift?
Thigh lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure that targets the extra saggy skin and fat of the inner thigh area. It is a popular choice for those who have undergone weight loss through either diet and exercise, surgery or increasingly we see folks who have lost weight thanks to the Semaglutide drugs such as Ozempic® or Wegovy®. Some patients refer to the effects as “Ozempic thighs”. The surgery is designed to tighten and contour the inner thigh area, resulting in a smoother, firmer, and more toned appearance. Dr. Gallagher never uses drains for this procedure instead using a special stitching technique which can speed up the healing process.
Do you carry all your weight in your legs? It could be lipedema!
Lipedema is a medical condition that causes an abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs and more rarely the arms. It is a chronic condition that affects mainly women and is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema. Lipedema can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling in the affected areas, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. In severe cases, the condition can lead to mobility issues and even disability.
Thigh Lift and Lipedema
One of the most effective ways to treat lipedema in the thighs is through a thigh lift surgery. A thigh lift can help remove the excess fat and skin that accumulates in the thighs and tighten the surrounding tissue. This can help to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with lipedema and improve the patient’s mobility.
During the procedure, Dr. Gallagher will make an incision in the thigh area, typically in the groin crease or the inseam, to remove the excess fat and skin. The underlying tissue is then reshaped and tightened to create a more contoured appearance.
While a thigh lift cannot cure lipedema, it can significantly improve the appearance and symptoms of the condition. In addition to the physical benefits, patients often report an improvement in their emotional well-being, including increased confidence and self-esteem.
Is a Thigh Lift right for me?
At the initial consultation, Dr. Gallagher will assess the patient’s specific needs and tailor her approach accordingly. The type of incision needed will depend on the individual patient’s condition and goals. In most cases, an “inseam” incision is used to tighten up the area as effectively as possible. During a thigh lift procedure, Dr. Gallagher will make incisions in the inner thigh area to remove excess skin and fat. Depending on the individual patient’s needs, the procedure usually also involves liposuction to remove stubborn pockets of fat. The remaining skin is then pulled tighter, creating a more toned and contoured appearance and this therefore can even help with the outer thigh skin. In some cases Dr. Gallagher may suggest adding in a skin tightening technology when treating this area such a Bodytite or Morpheus Body.
Thigh Lift Recovery
During the thigh lift surgery, patients are placed under general anesthesia and go home the day of the procedure. With Dr. Gallagher’s technique, no drains are used, minimizing the recovery process. After surgery, patients typically experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and proper post-operative care.
Patients can typically shower a couple of days after surgery and are off work for about two weeks. A compression garment is typically worn for six weeks post-surgery to minimize swelling and promote optimal healing.
If you’re considering a thigh lift procedure to address saggy skin and excess fat on your thighs, it’s important to choose an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Gallagher who can help you achieve the results you desire. With a thigh lift, you can not only get rid of inner thigh fat but also achieve smoother and tighter thighs overall.
