Unfortunately, many of us readily store fat on our thighs. Diet and exercise do little to diminish these stubborn bulges. For some people, additional issues in this area include cellulite and sagging skin. Thigh lift surgery is an excellent procedure to address these cosmetic concerns.

Thighplasty can be helpful for patients seeking to achieve toned, slim legs. The procedure reshapes the thighs by reducing excess fat and skin for smoother, sleeker contours when your consistent fitness and weight loss efforts fall short.

Thigh Lift Recovery

Thigh lift surgery is an effective means to achieve firmer, younger-looking thighs. There are various techniques available to provide a tailored treatment, including an inner thigh lift, bilateral thigh lift, or medial thigh lift. Your thigh lift recovery will depend on the extent of your treatment and your body’s unique healing process. The following is a typical timeline of what you can expect during recovery.

First Day

The first 24 hours after surgery are the most difficult. You should expect to feel some discomfort, swelling, and possible bruising. Dr. David Dreyfuss may position drains to direct excess blood and fluid away from the surgical sites and reduce inflammation and swelling. In addition, he will prescribe pain medication to help minimize discomfort and advise you to wear a compression garment to support your new contours as they heal.

You may find it difficult to walk on the first day after surgery. Dr. Dreyfuss recommends you arrange for a responsible adult to stay with you during this time to help you. Bed rest is critical for proper healing, and you should get plenty for the first few days of recovery. But that doesn’t mean you should stay in bed all the time. Instead, take light walks to promote circulation and the healing process. Please avoid strenuous activities like climbing stairs, bending over, running, or stretching.

First Week

You should continue feeling discomfort during your first week of recovery, but the pain should diminish as your body heals. However, some level of swelling will remain for several weeks. If pain and swelling worsen, this may be a sign of infection to bring to your surgeon’s attention.

Dr. Dreyfuss typically removes drains approximately seven days after surgery and checks the sutures to ensure healing is going as planned. Continue taking gentle walks while avoiding challenging activities.

Two to Three Weeks

Pain should have diminished significantly and possibly tapered entirely during this time. Any bruising should have begun to fade, too. Residual swelling will steadily decrease. If you are still experiencing significant swelling and pain at this point, bring it to Dr. Dreyfuss’ attention. After two or three weeks, you may consider returning to work and resuming light exercise while avoiding heavy lifting or vigorous cardio.

Six Weeks

At the six-week mark, you should feel more like yourself, and your legs should look much better. Dr. Dreyfuss will schedule a follow-up appointment at this time to ensure your progress is optimal. Please note your thigh lift results may not be final, but you should notice considerable improvement.

Schedule Your Orland Park Thigh Lift Consultation

To learn more about thigh lifts in Orland Park, IL, call board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dreyfuss or reach out online to schedule a consultation today.