Thigh Lift
WHAT IS THIGH LIFT SURGERY?
Weight loss is a huge triumph for any individual. In some cases, men and women who achieve their weight loss goals sometimes require one extra step to complete their physical transformation. Based on the amount of time you were overweight and how much of that weight you lost, extra skin can be an added problem if the skin wasn't able to adapt to the smaller shape and size of the body. The thighs are particular areas of trouble for many people. In Houston, TX, plastic surgeon Dr. Ryan Couvillion offers surgical thigh lifts (known as thigh-plasty) at SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery. This procedure trims away excess skin of the thighs to create a tighter, more contoured look. The surgery has increased in popularity primarily because it can give natural-looking results for anyone battling loose skin on the thighs.
WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR A THIGH LIFT?
Thighplasty is a skin tightening and removal treatment that addresses sagging skin. Thigh lift surgery is considered a post-weight loss treatment and is often used on people who have lost 100 pounds or more. It's also helpful among older men and women who are battling loose skin caused by natural aging, as well as women whose weight has changed from pregnancy and childbirth. If you have loose, wrinkly, or hanging skin on your upper thighs (whether it's the outer or inner thighs or both), this surgery can be a good option. Please keep in mind that if cellulite is the bigger concern, Dr. Couvillion can recommend different treatments that can help reduce the look of cellulite.
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HOW DOES A THIGH LIFT WORK?
For thigh lift surgery, general anesthesia is typically used. An incision is made along the inner side of the thigh from the crease near the groin down towards the knee. Sometimes this incision also extends into the crease where the thigh meets the body. Excess skin is removed and the remaining skin will be stretched upward so it can be tightened and secured with sutures. In some patients, an additional incision may be made underneath the butt or in the outer thigh area, based on the quantity of skin and tissue being addressed. Thigh lift surgery at SBA Dermatology corrects the entire thigh area for a tighter, shapelier, more contoured look.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER A THIGH LIFT?
Thighplasty takes about 2 – 3 hours to perform but may take longer depending on the amount of skin to be removed. Usually, patients legs are placed into compression garments and they may or may not have drains. Once the procedure is done, you will be monitored and assessed before you are allowed to go home to recover. Sometimes patients spend the night in the hospital, especially if this procedure is combined with any others. There is usually bruising, discomfort, and swelling which begins to get better after a few days. Your walking will be restricted due to location of the incisions, but it is important to get up and walk around. The overall recovery time usually lasts around 6 – 8 weeks. Wound care instructions given by Dr. Couvillion will help your surgical incisions to heal properly.
THIGH LIFT FAQs
How much does thigh lift surgery cost?
Your cost for a thigh lift will be based on different factors, like facility fees, tests, anesthesia, and more. Once Dr. Couvillion has developed your unique thigh lift treatment plan during your consultation, he can then estimate your costs. SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery will help you locate low-interest medical financing, which can make your thigh lift surgery easier to afford so you are able to concentrate on getting the results you want.
Will a thigh lift remove cellulite or stretch marks?
Thigh lift surgery is a great way to achieve nicely contoured and slimmer legs. Since a thigh lift includes tightening the skin, stretch marks on the inner thighs can be removed during the surgery. Cellulite is often more noticeable on the buttocks and backs of thighs, so these areas are less effected by a thigh lift. If you're concerned about stretch marks or cellulite, let Dr. Couvillion know in your consultation so he can customize your treatment plan to fit all of your goals.
How long will my results last?
After your surgery, if you stay healthy with regular exercise and a balanced diet, you should maintain your thigh lift results for many years. Dr. Couvillion advises you to be at or near a stable weight prior to thigh lift surgery so it's easier to maintain your results. Significant weight changes or pregnancy following your thigh lift can alter your appearance. In your consultation, Dr. Couvillion will explain what will make your results last.
Can I combine a thigh lift with other surgeries?
Many patients combine a thigh lift with a tummy tuck to create a custom lower body lift. In your initial consultation, talk to Dr. Couvillion about your wants and goals so he can develop a comprehensive surgical plan that gives you the best results.
What about a nonsurgical thigh lift?
Although there are nonsurgical treatments for skin tightening and fat reduction, these are best for mild improvements. Thigh lift surgery is the best way to correct significant amounts of loose skin and stubborn fat on your thighs. If you're considering non-surgical options, ask Dr. Couvillion to give you more information in your initial consultation. He will tell you the pros and cons of both thigh lift surgery and nonsurgical options, plus his recommendation on which would be best for your needs.
GET TIGHTER, TONED THIGHS
When you notice hanging skin on your thighs that creates embarrassment or anxiety, we encourage you to contact SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX to find out more about thigh lift surgery. Its typical for patients to combine a thigh lift surgery with one or more body contouring surgeries, particularly ones that address nearby areas, such as abdominoplasty, based on your specific goals. Schedule your appointment with plastic surgeon Dr. Couvillion get your customized treatment plan.
When it comes to aesthetic plastic surgery, it's important to choose a dedicated surgeon who is committed to your desired surgical goals. To meet with our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Ryan Couvillion, MD and his team, call our office at 713.275.9908.