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Many patients choose thigh lifts as an option to boost self-confidence and, in some cases, ease significant discomfort. If exercise and diet are not enough to achieve the desired outcome, patients might consider receiving a thigh lift. Potential benefits include reduced sagging, firmer thigh appearance, reduced discomfort, and chafing, and minimized appearance of stretch marks. In consultation with Dr. Aya-ay, patients can determine whether a thigh lift is the procedure best suited to their needs.
What is a Thigh Lift?
A thigh lift is a cosmetic procedure that improves the appearance of the thighs to combat thigh skin laxity and promote a firmer thigh area. This procedure leads to a more youthful, proportionate, and aesthetic image. Thigh laxity can result from aging, as well as from weight loss. Loose skin can cause not only embarrassment but difficulty fitting into clothing.
Thigh Lift Procedure
Thigh lifts are performed with general anesthesia using a preferred incision method decided upon in consultation with Dr. Aya-ay and dependent on which type of thigh lift is being performed. Liposuction techniques may also be incorporated as an adjunctive procedure in these surgeries.
During a medial thigh lift, the surgeon will make a horizontal incision where the thigh meets the pubic area. Excess skin and fat are then removed and the incision area is closed, effectively tightening the skin, improving the shape of the leg, and enhancing the elasticity of the skin. During a vertical medial thigh lift, an incision is made lengthwise down the inner thigh to resect a larger amount of lax skin and tissue.
During a lateral thigh lift, the skin is tightened on the outside and front of the leg. An incision is made at the top of the leg near the waistline. Skin is then removed and pulled towards the incision point, which tightens the skin upon closing the incision. This type of procedure is incredibly effective for those that have excess skin due to losing a significant amount of weight.
Melanie L. Aya-ay, M.D.
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
Dr. Melanie Aya-ay is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Tampa Bay with over 15 years of plastic surgery experience specializing in cosmetic surgery, reconstructive breast surgery and minimally invasive techniques for facial and body rejuvenation. She is known for her skill and excellence in revision surgery, specifically for difficult breast surgery revisions. Dr. Aya-ay is an Allergan Medical Institute (AMI) National Trainer for Facial Aesthetics and AMI National Speaker for Plastic and Regenerative Medicine. She is honored to be the first female surgeon to hold this dual faculty position with Allergan.
Dr. Aya-ay is the CEO and owner of Melanie L. Aya-ay, MD Plastic Surgery as well as Vivia MedSpa, an elite luxury medical spa in North Tampa. Her practice and her team have been built on the values of honesty, integrity, education, safety, and providing comprehensive aesthetic care with natural results. Your consultation with Dr. Aya-ay will be an educational experience so that you can be assured that you are making the choices that are best for you. Our staff will provide all the assistance needed to help you navigate through the process for a successful Plastic Surgery experience.
Thigh Lift Recovery and Aftercare
Upon completion of your surgery, bandages will be applied to your incisions, as well as a compression garment that is used to minimize swelling and provide support to your thighs during the healing process. Small tubes/drains may be placed under the skin temporarily to drain any excess fluid that may exist post-surgery. Lymphatic drainage massage will be performed as part of the postoperative care to help reduce swelling and improve results.
Patients are recommended to take off at least 2 weeks from work to recover after the completion of thigh lift surgery. During this time it is wise to be in reclining or standing positions in order to aid the healing process. Walking short distances throughtout the day will also be encouraged. Temporary bruising and swelling will occur and can last up to 2-3 months. Most patients find themselves able to return to all normal activities around six weeks postoperatively. Dr. Aya-ay and her staff will review the postoperative instructions with you at your consultation and again at your preoperative visit to ensure that you are comfortable with your postoperative care.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about thigh lifts or other potential options, schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Aya-ay. A consultation is a chance to collaborate to decide what procedure or treatment would be best suited for you and your needs. To schedule your consultation appointment, contact our Tampa office.
