WEBVTT 1 00:00:00.320 --> 00:00:01.440 Welcome to your guide 2 00:00:01.440 --> 00:00:03.180 to the thigh lift procedure. 3 00:00:03.180 --> 00:00:05.320 Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself 4 00:00:05.320 --> 00:00:07.240 with the procedure and what you can do 5 00:00:07.240 --> 00:00:09.260 to help improve your results. 6 00:00:09.260 --> 00:00:11.850 Remember, this presentation does not take the place 7 00:00:11.850 --> 00:00:14.310 of your consultation and you should make sure 8 00:00:14.310 --> 00:00:18.130 line:15% to jot down any questions you may want to ask us later. 9 00:00:18.130 --> 00:00:21.800 A thigh lift or thighplasty is a popular procedure 10 00:00:21.800 --> 00:00:24.400 for patients who have lost skin elasticity 11 00:00:24.400 --> 00:00:26.510 around the thigh and hip areas. 12 00:00:26.510 --> 00:00:29.100 Often, the effects of age or massive weight loss 13 00:00:29.100 --> 00:00:31.840 can leave the upper portion of the legs flabby, 14 00:00:31.840 --> 00:00:33.960 dimpled and saggy. 15 00:00:33.960 --> 00:00:36.910 A thigh lift can help to reduce the excess skin 16 00:00:36.910 --> 00:00:40.930 and return the legs to a smoother, more youthful contour. 17 00:00:40.930 --> 00:00:43.910 Thighplasty is often combined with other procedures, 18 00:00:43.910 --> 00:00:48.180 such as an abdominoplasty, belt lipectomy or buttock lift 19 00:00:48.180 --> 00:00:50.280 in order to create an aesthetic balance 20 00:00:50.280 --> 00:00:52.860 throughout the lower body and trunk. 21 00:00:52.860 --> 00:00:55.893 Procedure: How will your thigh lift be performed? 22 00:00:56.920 --> 00:01:00.250 The procedure can be tailored to meet a variety of needs. 23 00:01:00.250 --> 00:01:02.780 line:15% The two most common techniques are the inner 24 00:01:02.780 --> 00:01:06.613 line:15% or medial thigh lift and outer or lateral thigh lift. 25 00:01:07.620 --> 00:01:09.990 The inner thigh is often difficult to reshape 26 00:01:09.990 --> 00:01:12.930 with diet and exercise, as the skin is thin 27 00:01:12.930 --> 00:01:15.230 and relatively inelastic. 28 00:01:15.230 --> 00:01:19.320 An inner thigh lift addresses excess, saggy skin and fat 29 00:01:19.320 --> 00:01:21.270 on the inner slope of the thigh. 30 00:01:21.270 --> 00:01:23.530 To accomplish this, an incision is made 31 00:01:23.530 --> 00:01:24.970 in the lowest part of the crease 32 00:01:24.970 --> 00:01:27.110 between the groin and each thigh. 33 00:01:27.110 --> 00:01:30.030 line:15% For massive weight loss patients, a vertical incision 34 00:01:30.030 --> 00:01:32.200 line:15% along the inner thigh may be used as well 35 00:01:32.200 --> 00:01:34.580 line:15% to achieve additional correction. 36 00:01:34.580 --> 00:01:37.440 line:15% Skin and fat is removed and the skin of the inner thigh 37 00:01:37.440 --> 00:01:39.720 line:15% is pulled tight and sutured closed. 38 00:01:39.720 --> 00:01:42.970 line:15% Finally, dressings are applied to promote healing. 39 00:01:42.970 --> 00:01:45.430 Excess skin and fat throughout the outer portion 40 00:01:45.430 --> 00:01:47.660 of the thighs and buttocks can be addressed 41 00:01:47.660 --> 00:01:49.030 with an outer thigh lift. 42 00:01:49.030 --> 00:01:51.260 This procedure uses an incision 43 00:01:51.260 --> 00:01:54.690 along the top of the pelvic bone on each side 44 00:01:54.690 --> 00:01:57.400 Depending on the amount of correction desired, 45 00:01:57.400 --> 00:02:00.130 each incision may extend horizontally, 46 00:02:00.130 --> 00:02:02.560 as far as the center of your body. 47 00:02:02.560 --> 00:02:04.700 Excess skin and fat is then pulled up 48 00:02:04.700 --> 00:02:07.200 towards the incision and removed. 49 00:02:07.200 --> 00:02:09.880 Finally, the incision is sutured closed 50 00:02:09.880 --> 00:02:12.820 and bandages are applied to promote healing. 51 00:02:12.820 --> 00:02:16.320 Preparation: It is important to discuss your desires 52 00:02:16.320 --> 00:02:18.920 and listen closely during the consultation 53 00:02:18.920 --> 00:02:21.713 so that you can set realistic expectations. 54 00:02:22.650 --> 00:02:24.950 line:15% A great result can only be achieved 55 00:02:24.950 --> 00:02:27.630 line:15% when there is good communication between us. 56 00:02:27.630 --> 00:02:29.750 line:15% Together, we will select the technique 57 00:02:29.750 --> 00:02:32.600 line:15% that will provide the best result for you. 58 00:02:32.600 --> 00:02:34.440 line:15% When you meet with our patient coordinator, 59 00:02:34.440 --> 00:02:37.310 line:15% we will discuss fees and costs. 60 00:02:37.310 --> 00:02:40.740 Some suggestions to help you prepare for surgery. 61 00:02:40.740 --> 00:02:42.503 Your safety matters to us. 62 00:02:43.540 --> 00:02:44.880 You should be very open. 63 00:02:44.880 --> 00:02:48.180 Provide all of your medical history, drug allergies, 64 00:02:48.180 --> 00:02:50.700 list any previous surgeries, medications, 65 00:02:50.700 --> 00:02:53.830 diet pills, vitamins and herbs you are taking, 66 00:02:53.830 --> 00:02:55.983 even if you don't think they're important. 67 00:02:56.860 --> 00:02:59.100 Also, don't be afraid to be frank with us 68 00:02:59.100 --> 00:03:01.290 about your lifestyle, smoking, 69 00:03:01.290 --> 00:03:03.910 the strenuousness of the work you perform, 70 00:03:03.910 --> 00:03:06.180 line:15% your exercise habits and the importance 71 00:03:06.180 --> 00:03:07.960 line:15% of getting back to work. 72 00:03:07.960 --> 00:03:11.200 Here are some tips that may help you reduce scarring, 73 00:03:11.200 --> 00:03:12.680 shorten your recovery time 74 00:03:12.680 --> 00:03:15.760 and decrease your chances of complications. 75 00:03:15.760 --> 00:03:19.540 Discontinue using aspirin, ibuprofen, Naprosyn, 76 00:03:19.540 --> 00:03:22.650 St. John's Wort and vitamin E for one week before 77 00:03:22.650 --> 00:03:24.970 and a few days after your procedure. 78 00:03:24.970 --> 00:03:27.540 These act as blood thinners and could cause problems 79 00:03:27.540 --> 00:03:28.603 with blood clotting. 80 00:03:29.590 --> 00:03:32.390 line:15% Stop smoking and drinking alcohol in excess 81 00:03:32.390 --> 00:03:34.480 line:15% well in advance of your thigh lift 82 00:03:34.480 --> 00:03:36.810 line:15% and for one week after surgery. 83 00:03:36.810 --> 00:03:39.010 Drink lots of water in the days leading up 84 00:03:39.010 --> 00:03:40.180 to your thigh lift. 85 00:03:40.180 --> 00:03:42.503 Hydration will help you recover more quickly. 86 00:03:43.360 --> 00:03:46.130 To make your recovery easier and more comfortable, 87 00:03:46.130 --> 00:03:49.620 line:15% be sure to arrange for someone to take you home 88 00:03:49.620 --> 00:03:53.120 line:15% and take care of you for at least the first day. 89 00:03:53.120 --> 00:03:56.020 line:15% Fill your prescriptions and place them within easy reach 90 00:03:56.020 --> 00:03:57.603 line:15% of where you will be resting. 91 00:03:58.470 --> 00:04:00.853 line:15% Place plenty of pillows nearby for comfort. 92 00:04:01.690 --> 00:04:04.370 line:15% Have loose-fitting clothing ready to wear. 93 00:04:04.370 --> 00:04:06.470 line:15% Have a second set of compression garments, 94 00:04:06.470 --> 00:04:09.030 line:15% as this will help you feel fresher. 95 00:04:09.030 --> 00:04:11.403 Use ice packs to help reduce swelling. 96 00:04:12.480 --> 00:04:15.070 line:15% Avoid salt and drink pineapple juice, 97 00:04:15.070 --> 00:04:17.740 line:15% as this may help reduce swelling. 98 00:04:17.740 --> 00:04:20.570 line:15% Recovery: You should expect some pain, 99 00:04:20.570 --> 00:04:23.340 line:15% swelling and bruising following your thigh lift. 100 00:04:23.340 --> 00:04:25.510 line:15% Discomfort is usually moderate 101 00:04:25.510 --> 00:04:28.340 line:15% and will be managed with medication. 102 00:04:28.340 --> 00:04:31.940 Severe pain that is not relieved by medication is not normal 103 00:04:31.940 --> 00:04:34.740 and we would want to know about it immediately. 104 00:04:34.740 --> 00:04:36.790 line:15% Bruising usually lasts a few weeks, 105 00:04:36.790 --> 00:04:40.240 line:15% but swelling may take several months to subside. 106 00:04:40.240 --> 00:04:42.900 line:15% The recovery process is different for everyone, 107 00:04:42.900 --> 00:04:44.820 line:15% and if your thigh lift has been combined 108 00:04:44.820 --> 00:04:48.360 line:15% with other procedures, it may take some additional time 109 00:04:48.360 --> 00:04:50.743 line:15% for the bruising and swelling to subside. 110 00:04:52.570 --> 00:04:54.920 It is important to carefully begin walking 111 00:04:54.920 --> 00:04:56.550 the day after surgery, 112 00:04:56.550 --> 00:04:59.150 even if you still have some discomfort. 113 00:04:59.150 --> 00:05:02.500 Refrain from stressing or stretching your healing skin, 114 00:05:02.500 --> 00:05:05.790 especially where it has been sutured closed. 115 00:05:05.790 --> 00:05:08.510 Sitting or squatting is not recommended. 116 00:05:08.510 --> 00:05:12.630 And any surgical dressings should be changed as needed. 117 00:05:12.630 --> 00:05:13.930 As your body heals, 118 00:05:13.930 --> 00:05:16.540 it is important to wear compression garments 119 00:05:16.540 --> 00:05:19.350 in order to ensure the best possible new contour 120 00:05:19.350 --> 00:05:20.630 for your skin. 121 00:05:20.630 --> 00:05:23.100 Stitches will come out or be absorbed on their own 122 00:05:23.100 --> 00:05:25.440 between 10 to 14 days. 123 00:05:25.440 --> 00:05:27.160 line:15% You should plan on being out of work 124 00:05:27.160 --> 00:05:31.510 line:15% and away from your usual activities for at least two weeks. 125 00:05:31.510 --> 00:05:32.660 line:15% During this period, 126 00:05:32.660 --> 00:05:36.170 line:15% you should be able to return to light activities. 127 00:05:36.170 --> 00:05:40.150 line:15% Avoid any high-impact activities for about one month. 128 00:05:40.150 --> 00:05:43.500 line:15% In particular, you should avoid the sustained exertion 129 00:05:43.500 --> 00:05:47.000 line:15% of jogging, bouncing and leg stretching activities 130 00:05:47.000 --> 00:05:49.290 line:15% for up to six weeks. 131 00:05:49.290 --> 00:05:51.670 After this period, you may gradually return 132 00:05:51.670 --> 00:05:55.610 line:15% to activities such as lifting, exercise and sex. 133 00:05:55.610 --> 00:05:57.900 line:15% These precautions will help you avoid stress 134 00:05:57.900 --> 00:05:59.870 line:15% to the treated areas and allow time 135 00:05:59.870 --> 00:06:02.360 line:15% for your tissues to heal in recovery. 136 00:06:02.360 --> 00:06:04.240 line:15% While there will be permanent scars, 137 00:06:04.240 --> 00:06:06.250 line:15% they should be fairly well hidden. 138 00:06:06.250 --> 00:06:09.000 line:15% After about a year, your scars will usually flatten 139 00:06:09.000 --> 00:06:10.483 line:15% and become less noticeable. 140 00:06:11.530 --> 00:06:13.630 Although you should see immediate improvement 141 00:06:13.630 --> 00:06:16.300 in your contour, the appearance of your thighs 142 00:06:16.300 --> 00:06:19.430 should improve over a period of several months. 143 00:06:19.430 --> 00:06:22.050 line:15% What are the risks of thigh lift surgery? 144 00:06:22.050 --> 00:06:24.830 line:15% This information is not intended to frighten you, 145 00:06:24.830 --> 00:06:27.530 line:15% but to help you make an informed decision. 146 00:06:27.530 --> 00:06:30.960 line:15% No question or concern is silly or insignificant. 147 00:06:30.960 --> 00:06:33.150 line:15% We will be happy to discuss the full range 148 00:06:33.150 --> 00:06:36.360 line:15% of potential complications and answer any questions 149 00:06:36.360 --> 00:06:39.120 line:15% you might have regarding this procedure. 150 00:06:39.120 --> 00:06:41.680 line:15% Thankfully, complications are infrequent 151 00:06:41.680 --> 00:06:45.090 line:15% in thigh lift surgeries, and many thousands of procedures 152 00:06:45.090 --> 00:06:47.720 line:15% are successfully performed each year, 153 00:06:47.720 --> 00:06:49.130 line:15% but they can occur. 154 00:06:49.130 --> 00:06:53.690 line:15% Complications can include and are not limited to: hematoma, 155 00:06:53.690 --> 00:06:57.610 line:15% infection, reaction to anesthesia, nerve damage, 156 00:06:57.610 --> 00:07:01.550 line:15% asymmetry, fluid accumulation, unfavorable scarring 157 00:07:01.550 --> 00:07:03.240 line:15% and blood clots. 158 00:07:03.240 --> 00:07:05.040 As with all medical procedures, 159 00:07:05.040 --> 00:07:07.610 be sure to choose your surgeon wisely. 160 00:07:07.610 --> 00:07:10.390 It is important to choose an experienced surgeon 161 00:07:10.390 --> 00:07:12.870 you can trust and develop a good rapport with 162 00:07:12.870 --> 00:07:15.640 so you can openly discuss your concerns 163 00:07:15.640 --> 00:07:19.100 and particular needs throughout the process of consultation, 164 00:07:19.100 --> 00:07:21.660 surgery and aftercare. 165 00:07:21.660 --> 00:07:24.930 Should you decide to move forward with your thighplasty, 166 00:07:24.930 --> 00:07:27.120 a surgery date will be scheduled. 167 00:07:27.120 --> 00:07:30.230 Prior to surgery, you will be given complete preparation 168 00:07:30.230 --> 00:07:32.230 and recovery instructions. 169 00:07:32.230 --> 00:07:34.760 Remember to keep your followup visits, 170 00:07:34.760 --> 00:07:36.480 as we are here to help make this 171 00:07:36.480 --> 00:07:39.340 a wonderful experience for you. 172 00:07:39.340 --> 00:07:42.780 Feel free to review any part of this presentation you like 173 00:07:42.780 --> 00:07:45.600 and be sure to take a look at our before and after gallery 174 00:07:45.600 --> 00:07:48.653 to get a better idea of the results you may achieve.