Reshape Your Legs with a Thigh Lift

Many people are prone to carry excess fat cells in the thigh area. Because this is often a difficult area to tone, opting for a thigh lift in Annadale, VA, can reduce the frustrations people often have, especially when they are constantly exercising this body area. Likewise, people who have lost significant amounts of weight often have excess skin in the upper thigh areas. A thigh lift can also help to recontour the area through removal of excess fat and/or skin so you can move with ease and have confidence in your leg appearance.

Reasons for a Thigh Lift

• Pain in the upper thighs due to chaffing
• Excess fat in the thighs
• Sagging skin in the thighs
• Disproportionate thighs

What to Expect with a Thigh Lift

During a thigh lift, Dr. Anne Nickodem will remove excess fat and/or skin in targeted areas in order to re-sculpt the legs. A liposuction technique will be used to remove excess fat through a small incision. Underlying muscle tissue will be tightened to ensure a toned appearance for the legs. If necessary, excess skin will be trimmed away and the incision will be closed. Dr. Nickodem may place drainage tubes under the skin to drain any excess fluids from the area.

Thigh Lift Recovery

Dr. Nickodem will supply you with a compression bandage to wear during the healing process, approximately 1-2 weeks. Although your thighs will immediately look trimmer, they will also be swollen and bruised during this timeframe (this is normal and temporary). By using antibiotic creams, avoiding strenuous activities and stopping smoking, you will minimize your risk of complications and speed up your recovery. It is necessary to continue a healthy lifestyle in order to maintain your great results.

Potential Risks of a Thigh Lift

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Bruising and swelling
• Fluid loss or accumulation
• Anesthesia risks
• Poor wound healing
• Uneven thigh shape

Reasons to Postpone a Thigh Lift

Not everyone is a good candidate for a thigh lift. Dr. Nickodem may recommend you wait to have this procedure if you:

• Want to lose significant amounts of weight in the future
• Have a serious medical condition that may interfere with healing
• Will not stop smoking prior to and after surgery (this can delay healing and increase the risk of complications)
• Have unrealistic expectations 
• Believe that you can never regain weight in your thighs after the procedure

Is a thigh lift in Annadale, VA, right for you? Contact us today to schedule a Cosmetic Consultation to find out.