What's a thighplasty? Is it the right cosmetic procedure for you? If you're not happy with the shape of your thighs, take a look at what you need to know about this type of surgery.
A Thighplasty Changes the Look of Your Thighs
As the name implies, a thighplasty is a surgical procedure of the thighs. Pregnancy-related body changes, extreme weight loss, and aging can result in excess or sagging skin in the thigh area. Even though exercise can tone the muscles underneath, the skin itself may still look dimpled or droopy. The loose skin can give the appearance of extra weight - even if the area is relatively fat-free.
This cosmetic procedure lifts and contours the upper leg area. This eliminates some of the excess skin and creates a smooth or toned appearance.
A Thighplasty Isn't a Quick Way to Lose Weight
Unlike cosmetic procedures that remove fatty deposits, a thighplasty is not a way to lose weight. Instead, it's a procedure used following weight loss. If you want to lose weight, you may need to start with lifestyle changes. These could include a new eating plan or increased activity and exercise. Some patients struggle to lose weight or can't lose weight through these types of changes.
If you want to slim your frame or lose inches from your body, surgical procedures such as liposuction can help. Talk to a qualified plastic or cosmetic surgeon about your options. This type of surgical procedure does come with some risks and may not have permanent results if you don't make some lifestyle changes.
Thighplasty procedures are sometimes used with liposuction to increase the overall results - especially if liposuction will leave you with saggy skin in the upper leg area. Again, talk to a qualified medical provider about the benefits and risks, as well as your options.
A Thighplasty Can Target Specific Areas
Do you like some parts of your upper legs? Thighplasty surgery doesn't have to change the total look of your thighs. A thighplasty can target the inner thigh (the area in the lower area between the legs), medial thigh (the upper interior area), or the bilateral thigh (the front and outside areas). The surgeon can help you to better understand which type of procedure will help you to meet your physical and aesthetic needs.
A Thighplasty Is a Job for a Specialist
You can't see just any doctor for a thighplasty procedure. This type of surgery requires a professional with special skills, experience, and training. Along with a college and medical school education, a boardcertified plastic surgeon must complete at least six years of residency, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Talk to any potential future doctor about their credentials, certifications, and experience before you choose a doctor.
A Thighplasty Is Possibly an Outpatient Procedure
Most thighplasty surgeries are done on an outpatient basis. This means you won't need to stay overnight in a hospital. Some types of complications and complex surgeries or bilateral lifts may require a hospital stay. The surgeon will explain the procedure and whether they feel an outpatient option is the best choice for your needs.
Even though most thighplasty procedures are outpatient surgeries, you shouldn't expect to drive yourself home afterward. Like other surgical procedures, a thighplasty will require some form of anesthesia. Anesthesia allows you to relax and rest during the procedure. This reduces pre-surgical stress and eliminates pain or discomfort during the thighplasty.
A Thighplasty Requires Recovery
What happens after you wake up from anesthesia? Again, you won't drive yourself home after the procedure. A responsible adult will take you home to recover. The recovery time depends on how quickly you heal, what your overall health is, and whether you've had another procedure (such as liposuction) at the same time.
Are you ready to schedule a surgical consultation? Contact the office of
Ronald C. Barry, MD, for more information.
