Thigh Lift: what it is, how it is done, and recovery

A thigh lift is a type of plastic surgery that allows you to restore firmness and slim the thighs, which become more flaccid with aging or due to weight loss processes, for example, especially when diet and exercise do not produce satisfactory results.

In this type of surgery, there is no removal of fat from the thigh, the skin is only stretched to model the body contour and, therefore, when you want to remove localized fat from these areas, liposuction must be performed before the lifting. See how liposuction is done.

A thigh lift should normally be done after the age of 18 and when the ideal weight has been reached, as if there is a process of weight gain or weight loss, the skin may become more stretched and flaccid again, especially if there is a lot of fat accumulated on the thighs.

How is the surgery done

This type of surgery typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours and is done under general anesthesia in a cosmetic clinic or hospital. To achieve the final result, the surgeon usually:

1. Make small cuts in the groin area, in the lower part of the buttocks or on the inside of the thigh;
2. Remove excess skin in the cut area;
3. Stretches the skin and closes the cuts, reshaping the silhouette;
4. Wrap the thigh in tight bandages.

In some cases, the doctor may also insert drains near the surgery site, which are small tubes that help remove excess fluid that accumulates after surgery, to prevent infections and ensure a better aesthetic result. See what drains are and how you can take care of them after surgery.

The price of a thigh lift usually varies between 5 and 10 thousand reais, depending on the clinic and surgeon selected.

What is recovery like?

After surgery, it is normal to feel some pain and discomfort and, therefore, it is recommended to stay in hospital for 1 to 2 days to take painkillers directly into the vein and ensure that vital signs are well regulated.

Post-operatively, the thighs are generally covered with tight bandages for approximately 5 days to prevent the accumulation of fluids, which could compromise the final result.

Although rest is recommended for at least 3 weeks, from the first week onwards it is recommended to start taking short walks around the house to help relieve leg swelling and prevent the formation of clots. More intense physical exercise, such as running or going to the gym, should only be started with a doctor’s recommendation, which happens gradually after 2 months.

Furthermore, since most scars are close to the genital region, after removing the stitches, the doctor may prescribe an antiseptic soap that should be used after using the bathroom, to prevent the accumulation of bacteria that could cause an infection. .

What does the scar look like?

Thigh lift scars are usually most visible during the first few days after surgery and may even become thicker during the first 6 months. However, they tend to reduce after this period, ending up being well disguised in the contours of the body, especially in the butt and groin area.

To guarantee a better result, physical exercise should be avoided during the first 2 months as it facilitates the healing process and avoids excess pressure on the cuts. Additionally, some home remedies can be used to reduce scars, such as applying aloe vera or honey, for example. See some home remedies that can improve healing.