Thigh Lift Preparation
Before undergoing any major surgery, it is vital that patients prepare themselves not only physically but also mentally and environmentally. Going into surgery well prepared, and in good health, can mitigate risks and maximize the opportunity for optimal results.
Thighplasty is considered major surgery and requires patient dedication in following all surgeon relayed instructions before surgery and during the post-surgery recovery phase.
How to Get the Best Thigh Lift Results
The results of the thighplasty will be determined by three elements:
- The cosmetic curgeon. The skill and expertise of the cosmetic surgeon performing the procedure.
- Patient pre-surgical preparation. The patient’s commitment to preparing themselves and their environment in advance of the surgery to benefit their overall health and promote proper healing.
- Patient post-surgical aftercare. The patient’s dedication to following all of the post-operative directions provided by the surgeon. Proper wound/drain care, activity level, sleep, compression garment usage, etc.
First Steps In Preparing For A Thigh Lift
When contemplating a thighplasty (thigh lift surgery) one of the first decisions you will need to make is which surgeon you will choose to perform the procedure. Both the patient and the surgeon will play key roles in determining the outcome of the thigh lift.
The best practice when choosing a surgeon is to consult with a few before making your decision. Have your questions and concerns prepared asking all of your candidates the same questions so you have a baseline with which to compare.
Be prepared to answer questions as well because the surgeon will need some information about you before making a treatment recommendation. Much of the safety and success of your thigh lift will depend on the information you provide to the surgeon, so it is important to answer the questions honestly and provide as much detail as possible.
During your consultation, the surgeon will most likely inquire about the following:
- The goal or results you desire from your surgery;
- Any personal or family medical history, allergies, current or past medical conditions or treatments, etc;
- Medications, herbal supplements, or vitamins that you are currently taking;
- Usage of alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs;
- Previous surgeries;
- The surgeon may also take measurements, make notes, or take photos (some wait until the second meeting for this).
How to Choose a Thigh Lift Surgeon
When choosing a surgeon for thigh lift surgery, consider these factors:
- The surgeon’s qualifications;
- The surgeon’s track record. You can look for patient reviews, etc;
- If the surgeon is an expert in the type of thighplasty you are having;
- How at ease did you feel during your consultation? Did you feel that the surgeon answered all of your questions and thoroughly discussed all aspects of the surgery with you?
Preparing For Thigh Lift Surgery
After choosing the cosmetic surgeon to perform your thigh lift surgery, it is time to begin preparations. The surgeon has provided a list of necessary items that you will need to complete during the time before your surgery. Some of the items on this list may advise you to:
- Obtain some lab tests or undergo a medical evaluation with your primary doctor;
- Begin taking certain medications, stop taking medications, or make adjustments to current medications;
- Quit smoking since it significantly impedes the healing process;
- Avoid over-the-counter pain medications such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, herbal supplements, or prescriptions that cause blood thinning;
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
What You Can Do To Best Prepare For Thigh Surgery
In addition to what the surgeon has requested from you, it is important to remember that your risk for complications can be mitigated by your pre-surgical behavior. If you are in optimal shape when you undergo surgery, the quicker you will recover, the lower the risk for complications, and the better your results will be. Patients can prepare their physical body as well as their environment to help them get the best results from their thigh lift surgery.
Preparing Physically For Thigh Lift Surgery
Getting your physical body in optimal shape to undergo surgery may include:
- Keeping your weight stable – maintaining a healthy weight diet and regular exercise will significantly aid in your recovery after a thigh lift;
- Eating a healthy balanced diet – eating a diet rich in vitamins, nutrients, lean proteins, and antioxidants will help boost the immune system, help avoid infection, and promote proper and faster healing;
- Exercising regularly – keeping your heart and lungs in shape through a regular exercise routine will help your body heal faster after surgery;
- Avoiding alcohol;
- Getting plenty of sleep;
- Staying hydrated.
Preparing Your Environment For Thigh Lift Surgery
When you arrive home to recover after thigh lift surgery, you will not be able to go about your normal routine. You will need to give your body adequate time to thoroughly heal. Preparing your environment in advance will provide you with the best opportunity to get the rest you will require.
Preparing your environment for your thigh lift recovery may include:
- Arranging a ride home from surgery – you will not be allowed to drive until you are cleared by the surgeon;
- Schedule adequate time off from work;
- Arrange for help with children, pets, and daily housework;
- Enlist the help of a friend or family member to assist you with aftercare and your basic needs for about a week;
- Stock up on necessary household supplies (toilet paper, etc);
- Stock the pantry and fridge with healthy meal choices and snacks, prepare meals ahead of time and freeze them to use during your recovery;
- Refill or fill prescriptions you will need during recovery;
- Prepare a comfortable sleeping area that allows you to recline;
- Review and follow all the pre-op instructions given by the surgeon;
Pre-Op Preparation For Thigh Lift Surgery
Each surgeon will provide patients with detailed instructions that are specific to their surgery. Follow these instructions to the letter as they are all given to reduce risks and provide patients with a safe, complication-free surgery. Sample instructions to use in preparation for a thighplasty can be found below.
Thigh Lift Surgery Preparation Timeline
The Day Before Surgery
- Do not eat or drink anything for 8-12 hours before surgery. Nothing! No water, mints, do not chew gum, etc).
- Aspiration pneumonia or lung complications can arise and cause death if this directive is not followed.
The Night Before Surgery
- Take a shower using antibacterial soap and scrub the target area for surgery.
- Do not put anything on your skin after showering (body lotion, deodorants, etc).
- Remove all jewelry including body piercing pieces. Do not wear any jewelry to the surgery.
The Morning Of Surgery
- Shower again using antibacterial soap. This is done as a safety precaution and to reduce the risk of bacteria being introduced into the incision.
- Do not use any body lotion, moisturizer, deodorant, etc. They can inhibit surgical markings, skin disinfecting, and monitoring anesthesia.
- Do not eat or drink anything! You can brush your teeth but do not swallow any water.
- Do not wear contacts.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing that is easy to remove and does not need to be taken off over your head.
Note: If you become ill right before your surgery, contact the surgeon’s office for instructions.
