Risks Of Thigh Lift Surgery
Any surgery carries elements of risk which could include bleeding, deep vein thrombosis (blood clots), infection, numbness, risks associated with the use of general anesthesia, scarring, swelling.
Thigh lift surgery carries these general risks and a few others. According to the research results published in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, approximately 68% of patients who undergo thigh lift surgery (due to massive weight loss) experience complications after thighplasty surgery.
Except for very rare cases, these complications are mild and can be addressed without additional surgery.
Potential Thigh Lift Surgery Complications
The most common side effects or complications from thigh lift surgery include:
Wound Dehiscence
This condition occurs when the wound’s edges begin to separate (along the suture line). It can happen as a result of improper wound healing and normally will begin to occur about a week post-op.
Seroma
A seroma happens when fluid begins to build up under the skin’s surface. This will normally occur near the incision site or in an area where some tissue was extracted. The build-up of fluid may not be apparent until several weeks after a thigh
lift.
Lymphedema After Thigh Lift Surgery
Although less common, Lymphedema can result after undergoing thigh lift surgery. It occurs when the body’s lymphatic drainage system is permanently obstructed, damaged, or interrupted as a result of surgery.
Lymphedema causes swelling in the legs or arms and can be managed through dietary restrictions (low sodium), leg elevation, compression garments, and lymphatic massages.
Things You Can Do To Help Reduce Thigh Lift Surgery Complications
Do Not Smoke
Quit At least four months before your thigh lift. Smoking is at the top of the list as a healing inhibitor. Thigh lifts have an elevated risk of wound separation which is caused by poor healing.
Eat Healthily
Making some lifestyle changes in advance of your thigh lift surgery can help you recover faster and without complications. A nutrient-rich diet that is full of vitamins and antioxidants can boost your immune system and give your body what it needs to properly heal.
Avoid Ibuprofen, Aspirin, and other NSAIDs drugs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs thin out your blood and can result in excessive blood loss during surgery as well as complications during recovery. It is best to avoid these types of medications for a month before surgery and during your recovery
Avoid Heavy Lifting
Allow yourself time to heal without exerting any pressure on your incisions. Straining to pick up something heavy (even a child) can cause your incisions to separate.
Follow All Of Your Aftercare Instructions Faithfully
One of the biggest mistakes patients make during their surgical recovery process is they begin neglecting their aftercare which is not only a vital part of the healing process but can also negatively impact the final results of the surgery.
Wear the compression garments according to the surgeon’s directions and for the required amount of time.
Communicate With Your Doctor
If you have any questions or concerns, or if something does not seem quite right, contact the surgeon immediately so they can investigate the issue and address it before it escalates.
