When women are asked what they would most like to change about their bodies, one of the most frequently cited areas is the inner thigh. Dimples and cellulite and extra sagging skin are often the most hated thigh problems, not to mention the rubbing together of skin and the irritation it can cause. When you’re embarrassed about your thighs, baring your body in a bathing suit can be a touchy matter.

This plastic surgery procedure can be done in combination with abdominoplasty and liposuction, but potential patients should be aware of the danger in multiple procedures. Often done after major weight loss, the surgical thigh lift procedure can help to remove unwanted excess on the inner and back of the thigh, which can alleviate the rubbing, allow for better clothing fit, and give thighs a more shapely appearance. Your initial consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help you to find out if this plastic surgery procedure can help you.

Procedure
The thigh lift procedure can be conducted at a hospital facility or an out-patient centre under local or general anesthetic, and usually takes about two hours. This is a choice you will make with your surgeon.

The surgeon will make an incision in the groin area near the hip; a spot which can be covered by a bathing suit. The skin is then separated from the fat and tissue beneath, at which point the surgeon will remove the excess by excision, cutting, or by liposuction. Your consultation will help you understand the method and the type of liposuction your surgeon will use. Once the excess is removed, the surgeon then pulls the skin upwards to close the incision and closes it with small sutures. A drainage tube may then be inserted to help excess fluids leave the body.

Cost
Fees for thigh lifts can range from $2000 to $8000 depending on which areas and the degree of fat and tissue removal. If you are interested in financing your procedure, consider seeking a plastic surgery loan or speak to your surgical clinic about financing options.

Recovery
After this form of plastic surgery, patients report feeling sore and tired and usually experience bruising and swelling in the thigh area. To reduce swelling and help with fluid absorption, a compression garment may be recommended for the first five weeks after surgery.

You will be unable to walk or drive easily the day after the surgery, so plan ahead and arrange your recovery areas ahead of time to accommodate your recovery. You will be encouraged to walk soon after surgery to help with blood circulation, and any discomfort can usually be controlled by pain medication prescribed by your doctor.

After one week your stitches will be removed, however, your recovery will last approximately three weeks before you can return to normal activity. You will be advised to wear your compression garment and avoid strenuous physical activity for up to one month. While recovery is prolonged, results are typically very good.

Risk
As with any surgical procedure, plastic surgery does carry some inherent risks. The normal risks associated with thigh lift surgery include infection, bleeding and delayed wound healing. Wound care, use of antibiotics and following your surgeon’s specific care instructions should be followed strictly