Are you thinking about undergoing thigh lift surgery? This procedure can remove sagging skin and help you achieve the shapely body you have always wanted. But what can you expect after your surgery? How long is the recovery process, and when will you get to enjoy the full results of your surgery? This blog post walks you through what you can expect while you are recovering from a thigh lift.
Starting Your Recovery
Thigh lift surgery takes place under IV sedation or general anesthesia. The sedative medications can be quite powerful, so you should expect to feel drowsy and a little “out of it” for at least several hours after your procedure. You will also notice some soreness in your thighs. You should walk a little to encourage proper circulation, but overall, your physical activity should be kept to a minimum for at least two weeks.
During the initial part of your recovery, you may need to take painkillers, periodically change your bandages, wear compression garments, and take other steps to care for your incision sites. Your surgical team will give you detailed instructions so you do not have any doubts about what you should do.
Enjoying Your Results
After 2 – 4 weeks or so, your doctor may give you permission to start moving more. Gentle walking is usually the best exercise during this period. You might also be advised to perform some gentle stretches. At this point, a good portion of the swelling should be gone, and you may begin to notice the results of your treatment.
About 6 – 8 weeks after your surgery, swelling should be down to a minimum, and your incisions should be completely healed. It will likely be safe for you to resume most activities. You will notice some scarring, but it should be easy to conceal with clothing.
Full Recovery
It can take six months or longer for the complete results of your surgery to become apparent, and it may be several months to a year or more before your scars start to flatten and fade. If you have any questions or concerns at any point during your healing period, you should feel free to reach out to your surgeon for guidance. They want you to have a positive experience and, ultimately, to be satisfied with the results of your thigh lift.
Recovering from a thigh lift can take a while, but the long-term benefits will be well worth it!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Irvin M. Wiesman is an experienced plastic surgeon in the Chicago area. He is pleased to offer thigh lift surgery for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, as well as those who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their thighs for other reasons. If you have questions about what to expect with a thigh lift or any other procedure offered by Dr. Wiesman, contact our office at 312-981-1290.
