Kim Has Skinny Legs!!!

Our frequent contributor and my good friend Kim Stover underwent a surgical thigh lift yesterday. She is home today recovering nicely and has found a way to use the computer laying down. For the next two weeks she must lay down or stand, she cannot be in a sitting position. I look forward to update from her soon.

Thighplasty – Reconstructive Surgery of the Thigh

A leg lift, also known as a thigh lift or “thighplasty,” is designed to rid the loose, hanging skin in the thigh and buttocks, which tends to remain on a patient’s body following significant weight loss. A leg lift is intended to tighten and firm these areas, improving overall body contour. Candidates for thighplasty are usually those who have had extreme weight gains and losses or have developed laxity due to age. The thighplasty removes lax skin and fat and places the scars in locations that can be hidden within the bikini line. Like any surgical procedure there are risks and benefits that will be discussed at your consultation.

Length: About 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of lift required.

Side Effects: Temporary bruising, swelling, pain and discomfort, numbness, and soreness. Possible reaction to anesthesia.

Recovery Back to work: 1 to 2 weeks. Strenuous activity: 4 to 6 weeks.

Risks Scarring, wound healing problems, infection, blood or fluid collection, loss of sensation, asymmetry, wrinkling of skin, lumpiness, areas of depression. Nerve damage may cause weakness in foot or leg. Possibility of permanent discoloration.

Results Long-lasting, but subject to weight fluctuation.

Technology: Commonly during a leg lift, an incision is made in the upper inner thighs (possibly into the lower inner thigh), and the excess skin and fat is lifted at the surgeon’s discretion. He or she will determine how much can safely be removed. Once the excess is removed, the remaining skin is closed with sutures that can be removed in about a week. The type of incision and a patient’s resulting scar will be determined by the location and amount of excess skin and fat. It may be limited to the upper groin crease or possibly extend to the knee area if this region requires treatment.

For other reconstructive procedures after weight loss link to the LivingAfterWLS Body Reconstruction page.