AM I A CANDIDATE FOR THIGHPLASTY?

There are a number of factors that can lead to deposits of excess fat and sagging skin in the thigh region, not the least of which are aging, genetics, and weight fluctuation. You may be a candidate for a thighplasty if you have excess skin on the inner or outer thigh, a general loss of definition, or excess deposits of fat in the thighs.

A thighplasty is not an alternative to weight loss and should only be performed when you have reached a stable weight. If you plan to continue a weight-loss regiment, you should reach your target weight before undergoing a thighplasty.

Candidates for a thighplasty should be in generally good physical health, non-smokers, and not have any medical conditions that impede the healing process. If you think that this procedure might be right for you, call the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago to schedule a consultation.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CONSULTATION

During your consultation, you will speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon about your aesthetic goals. Your surgeon will perform an evaluation and discuss treatment options based on your desires and body type; in some cases, liposuction might be a better alternative to a thighplasty or performed in conjunction with a thigh lift.

You and your plastic surgeon will discuss any aspects of the procedure, through recovery, as well as any potential risks associated with a thighplasty. If you have any questions about any of these factors, the consultation is the best time to have all of your questions answered.

 

HOW THIGHPLASTY IS PERFORMED

First, a general anesthetic is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure. Before the incisions are made, your plastic surgeon may use liposuction to remove fatty deposits. Then they will make incisions based on the degree of correction and problematic areas of the thighs.

Typically, these incisions are made in the groin region and on the inner aspect of the thigh. Whenever possible, your plastic surgeon will attempt to conceal the incisions in the natural creases of the body to avoid visible scarring. The underlying tissue of the thighs is reshaped, and internal sutures are placed to hold the tissue in its new position and shape. The skin is then contoured over the thighs and any excess skin is removed. Lastly, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. A drain may be placed at the incision sites to remove any excess fluid.

   

RECOVERY AFTER THIGHPLASTY

The results of a thighplasty will be apparent almost immediately following the procedure. Your thighs may be wrapped in compression bandages to minimize swelling and help the tissue maintain its new shape.

Your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication and issue specific instructions for post-surgical care. Swelling and bruising is normal following a thighplasty, and will usually subside in four to six weeks after the surgery.

You should avoid any rigorous physical activity following a thighplasty until your plastic surgeon clears you to return to your normal level of activity, which may be four to six weeks after the procedure.

 

WHAT DOES THIGHPLASTY COST?

The average cost of a thigh lift is approximately $4,800 in the United States, though this figure may be affected by your location, the plastic surgeon performing the procedure, and the extent of your aesthetic goals. Most medical insurers will not cover the cost of a thighplasty because it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Be sure to discuss all associated costs, as well as payment options, with your plastic surgeon during your consultation.

 

POTENTIAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THIGHPLASTY

Any surgical procedure involves some potential risks. The risks associated with a thighplasty may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Hematoma (blood clot)
• Changes in skin sensation
• Skin discoloration
• Scarring

At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we take every precaution to avoid potential complications by employing the safest and most innovative techniques. You can further mitigate the potential for risk by carefully following all instructions from your plastic surgeon.

 

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

If you have unwanted excess fat or skin in your thighs due to aging or weight fluctuation, a thighplasty may be an option for you. Contact the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic surgery of the body. We will walk you through every step of the procedure and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

 

All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.