There are multiple techniques to remove loose skin and fat in the thighs. These range from liposuction alone to address excess fat deposits with minimal skin excess through to radical circumferential type thigh lifts which have more scarring. The most common scenario where thigh lifts are performed is following significant weight loss where the main concern is excess rolls of skin.
Your surgeon will examine you to determine whether the main problem is a vertical excess, horizontal excess or both. The operation will then be personally tailored to your needs. The final decision will determine the ultimate scar pattern. One type of scar pattern is through a horizontal incision in the groin crease where the final scar may be concealed with underwear. This is suited to a vertical excess of skin. Other scar patterns include a vertical scar down the inner aspect of the thigh and in addition there may be a horizontal component in the groin crease such that the eventual scar is and inverted L or T shape.
Of all the body contouring procedures this procedure has one of the highest complication rates. The reason for this is that the blood supply to the legs is not as robust as other regions of the body and there is also a higher normal bacterial load on the skin in the groin region. The result of this is that wound healing problems and infection rates are higher in thigh lifts.
It is important to remember, any invasive procedure carries risks and individual results may vary depending on factors, not limited to but including age, genetics, diet, lifestyle and existing medical conditions. Before any surgery, we recommend you consult a qualified health practitioner who should discuss with you at length these risks including possible complications and recovery/aftercare instructions specific to your procedure. If unsure, always seek a second opinion from a specialist plastic surgeon.
