Thigh Lift in Columbus, OH
Though the thigh lift doesn’t receive the same kind of media attention as liposuction or tummy tuck surgery, it’s equally life-changing for many patients. The thighs are a source of aesthetic discontent for many people, and problems in this area typically only increase with age. A significant percentage of people feel that their thighs are too large and lack firmness, no matter what they do to tone them. When exercise fails to produce ideal results, thigh lift surgery can help.
Learn more about the best thigh lift in Columbus, OH, by reading on. You can also contact Zochowski Plastic Surgery by calling (614) 490-7500 or contacting us online today!
Understanding the Role of Thigh Lift Surgery
Exercise plays an essential role in toning and shaping the thighs, but natural aging and hormonal changes can make it less effective. Pregnancy, for example, usually causes substantial fat accumulation around the thighs, and this fat can be extremely stubborn.
As we get older, the weight of these fat deposits combines with other factors to make the thighs appear more lax: First, as collagen levels decline, the skin becomes weaker; this makes it susceptible to stretching. (The thighs are particularly hard hit by this change because the skin in this region is already fairly fragile.) Connective tissues and muscle fibers also weaken, allowing fat deposits to travel downwards.
Not only do these changes affect the patient’s self-image, they can be very physically uncomfortable. Excess skin and fat on the thighs often leads to painful, irritating chafing. This chafing can make exercise challenging, making it even more difficult to keep the thighs toned. Furthermore, exercise is not capable of reversing age-related changes in the tensile strength of the skin. The only way to correct loose skin is to remove it.
What Happens During a Thigh Lift?
Christopher Zochowski, M.D.
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
For Dr. Zochowski, plastic surgery is the intersection where science, art, and empathy meet. Early work experience in his father’s medical office provided undeniable guidance into a career of helping people in need of medical care. Having a keen aptitude for both art and chemistry, he realized that he could combine his artistic skill with his love of science and research through plastic surgery.
Who Makes a Good Thigh Lift Candidate?
Thigh lifts are usually recommended for mature patients who are a healthy weight. The ideal thigh lift candidate has a moderate to severe level of skin laxity that requires correction. If you only have diet-resistant excess fat on your thighs, and little to no loose skin, or Coolsculpting may be a better choice for you.
Thigh lift candidates must also be in good overall health and be nonsmokers. Health conditions that impair your immune system, like diabetes and autoimmune disorders, can interfere with your ability to have invasive surgery due to increased risk for healing complications.
When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Zochowski will discuss your complete medical history with you (including any medications or supplements you take). He’ll then inform you about your options and advise you on which, if any, medications you’ll need to stop taking in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Be sure to tell him about any over the counter medications you use, not just prescription medications. Some over the counter medications, like Aspirin, can increase the risk of post-surgical bleeding.
What to Expect During Thigh Lift Recovery
Patients who have a thigh lift can usually go home on the same day they have their procedure, but Dr. Zochowski gives all of his patients the option of staying in the hospital overnight. If you would feel more comfortable remaining in the hospital after your procedure, let him know. Once you’re ready to go home, you will need someone to drive you home and assist you with basic tasks for at least three to five days.
Though thigh lift recovery is not typically very uncomfortable, it does inhibit the patient’s ability to perform certain activities. Walking and sitting down will be difficult for between two to four weeks, and you can expect to experience some swelling and bruising. You’ll be given prescription pain medication to reduce symptoms of soreness. Because this surgery makes patients temporarily less mobile, you’ll need to take between two to three weeks off of work while you recover.
Booking a Thigh Lift Consultation in Columbus, OH
If your thighs are causing you to avoid certain activities or simply making you feel self-conscious, Dr. Zochowski can use surgical contouring to help you. Thigh lift surgery provides a long-lasting solution for both excess fat and skin laxity, improving patient comfort for many years.
When you’re ready, contact our plastic surgery practice in Columbus, Ohio to book your thigh lift consultation and take a step towards improved confidence. We pride ourselves on providing personalized care of exemplary quality, and all of Dr. Zochowski’s surgeries are performed in a safe hospital setting. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve all of your cosmetic goals.
FAQS About Thigh Lifts in Columbus, OH
A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at removing excess skin and fat from the thighs to create a more toned and proportionate appearance. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, aging, or other factors that lead to sagging skin and tissue in the thigh area. By addressing these concerns, a thigh lift can enhance comfort, reduce chafing, and improve overall body contour.
Ideal candidates for a thigh lift are individuals in good overall health who are close to their ideal body weight but struggle with excess skin and fat in the thigh region. Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking before and after surgery are preferred, as smoking can impede healing. It’s also important for candidates to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure.
During a thigh lift, Dr. Zochowski makes incisions in strategic locations, such as the groin crease or along the inner thigh, to minimize visible scarring. Excess skin and fat are then removed, and the remaining tissue is tightened to create a smoother contour. In some cases, liposuction may be combined with the procedure to enhance results. The specific technique used will depend on the patient’s individual anatomy and goals.
Recovery varies by individual, but most patients can expect to take about two weeks off from work and avoid strenuous activities for six weeks. Swelling and discomfort are common during the initial recovery period, and Dr. Zochowski provides detailed post-operative instructions to manage these symptoms effectively. Wearing a compression garment is typically recommended to support healing and reduce swelling.
While scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, Dr. Zochowski takes great care to place incisions in areas that can be easily concealed by clothing. Over time, scars usually fade and become less noticeable. Patients can also use scar-minimizing treatments as recommended by Dr. Zochowski to enhance the healing process.
The results of a thigh lift are long-lasting, especially when patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the longevity of the results. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to preserving the outcomes of the surgery.
Yes, a thigh lift is often combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction, tummy tuck, or lower body lift, to address multiple areas of concern during a single surgical session. Combining procedures can be an efficient way to achieve comprehensive body contouring results.
As with any surgical procedure, a thigh lift carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and complications related to anesthesia. Dr. Zochowski discusses all potential risks and benefits with you during the consultation to ensure this procedure is right for you.
Preparation involves several steps, including medical evaluations, adjusting current medications, and ceasing smoking. Dr. Zochowski provides comprehensive pre-operative instructions tailored to each patient’s needs. It’s also important to arrange for someone to assist you during the initial recovery period.
Most patients can return to light activities and work within two weeks, depending on the nature of their job. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense exercise for at least six weeks or until Dr. Zochowski provides clearance. Adhering to post-operative guidelines is crucial for optimal healing and results.
In many cases, Dr. Zochowski may place surgical drains to help remove excess fluid and reduce swelling during the early healing period. These drains are usually temporary and are removed a few days after surgery during a follow-up appointment. Proper drain care is essential for minimizing complications, and detailed post-operative instructions will be provided to help you manage them at home. Not every patient requires drains—this depends on the surgical approach and the amount of tissue removed.
After your thigh lift, it’s important to rest in a position that minimizes tension on your incisions. Most patients find it comfortable to sleep on their back with pillows under their knees to keep their legs slightly elevated. This position helps reduce swelling and improves circulation during the early stages of healing. Side-sleeping or sleeping with legs tightly together should be avoided until Dr. Zochowski clears you to resume your normal sleeping posture. Following proper sleep positioning can contribute to better scar healing and reduced discomfort.