I’d prefer not to have the incision along the inside of my inner thigh. Why do I need this?
The vertical incision along the inner thigh is the only way to ensure safe and maximal skin removal when moderate to severe sagging is present. Complications such as excessive scarring, scar migration and irreversible vaginal distortion may occur when an attempt to remove too much skin with a medial thigh lift.
My thighs have loose skin, but they still have a significant amount of fat. Will the extra fat be addressed during the thigh lift?
Yes, liposuction is performed when needed in conjunction with a thigh lift in Charlotte NC. In larger thighs, Dr. Pratt may elect to perform the liposuction as a separate procedure if he feels your final shape and scar quality would favor this approach.
Do I need general anesthesia for a thigh lift?
Mild to moderate thigh lifts can be done under moderate sedation in select individuals. More involved thigh lifts are performed under anesthesia.
What’s the scar going to look like? That part worries me
Dr. Pratt completely understand your concerns and will do everything in possible to optimize scar location and quality. This involves many variables such as technique, types of stitches used, and not removing too much skin. If there was a way to provide maximal shape with minimal incisions, we would obviously prefer such a technique. The truth is that any lesser operation done when a thigh lift is actually needed will most certainly fall short of expectations and potentially lead to undesired complications.
Will I have drains with my thigh lift with Dr. Pratt?
Typically, no, but this is something that is ultimately decided in the operating room. The risk for fluid build-up after thigh lift surgery is definitely a possibility, however, these small collections tend to pop up 2-3 weeks after surgery, when the drains have already been removed. Fluid build-up is an inevitable part of body contouring to some degree but rest assured it is usually a minor annoyance that is readily addressed in the office in a matter of minutes.
What is recovery like after a thigh lift with Dr. Pratt?
Recovery varies based on the extent of fat and skin removed. Patients should expect to keep activity other than walking for the first 2 weeks and elevation of the legs above the level of the heart when lying down is recommended to help reduce swelling. Dr. Pratt frequently recommends post-operative lymphatic massage to help facilitate your recovery. Dr. Pratt has worked for nearly 10 years with what he considers is Charlotte’s best lymphatic massage specialist in Charlotte, who will perform the service in the comfort of your own home. In his experience, patients who elect to partake in this optional service have significant reductions in post-operative discomfort and pain.