A thigh lift is a procedure which helps reshape your thighs and increase their elasticity by removing excess skin and fat. This is usually done when you are unable to reduce excess fat in your thighs despite overall weight loss of your body.

However, it is essential to know that a thigh lift must not be mistaken for procedure strictly meant for fat reduction. It is more for a firmer disposition of your thighs and to have a balanced body image.

You are a viable candidate for this procedure if you fit into the following simple criteria.

• If you have undergone massive weight loss
• If you are keen on being fit and desire a shapely body image
• If you do not smoke or have any medical conditions
• If you have trouble fitting into clothes due to excess thigh fat

The following pre-procedure preparations are important to follow to ensure you get your desired results and for a smooth sail of the surgery.

• Do not smoke or take anti-inflammatory drugs for six weeks for the procedure. This promotes proper recovery.
• Your plastic surgeon will check your weight to make sure to it is stable. He / She will also recommend certain medical evaluations.
• Make sure you are properly hydrated before the procedure. It is essential to take proper care of yourself for the few initial weeks, post-surgery as it leaves the doctored area fragile.
• Make sure you consult with your surgeon on a regular basis and maintain the shape by exercise and following a proper diet to get optimum results.

The procedure usually takes two-three hours to complete and is done in the following steps.

• You will be administered anesthesia or any other medical sedative.
• Incisions, usually beginning near the groin and then around the thighs, are made after consultation.
• If you do not smoke or have any medical conditions
• The underlying tissue is removed and rearranged and the skin is re-draped. The incision is then sutured.

Common risks for this procedure include adverse reactions toward anesthesia, allergic reactions, bleeding, infection, fluid retention, sagging of skin and scarring. Though swelling is usually expected in the first few weeks, excessive swelling can be a cause of concern.

Though your results will be evident immediately after surgery, be prepared for a few weeks of soreness and swelling. These are normal and will subside with time. Make sure you follow the instructions given by the surgeon. They will include the usage of a support garment provided to you to be worn for approximately three months after the surgery, how to take care of the temporary drains attached to remove excess fluid and symptoms you will be expected to experience in the initial weeks.

You will be expected to rest for about two weeks, after which walking and driving can be resumed unless you experience any pain. Make sure you avoid lifting heavy objects or running until the first month after the procedure.

Being one of the surgeries that show long-lasting results, makes a thigh lift a preferred procedure. However, making the most of it is up to you. It is essential to maintain a proper diet, exercise regularly and keep constantly in touch with your surgeon. Make sure you watch out for arrhythmic heartbeats, excessive breathing, and swelling, and report it immediately to your doctor to avoid complications in the future.