Introduction: Liposuction Of the Thighs
Liposuction of the thighs can be separated into two specific regions and these include the lateral and medial thighs. The lateral thighs are located just below the lateral hip region which is the anterior extension of the mid buttock region. Some clients refer to these as saddle bags! The medial thighs wrap around the inside of the leg and can be divided into posterior-medial, central-medial, and anterior-medial diamonds. Liposuction of the thighs requires consideration of several unique considerations.
Liposuction of the lateral thighs
The lateral thighs serve as a junction point between the lateral hips and the lower legs. Since the lateral hips typically had a dip, this region needs to be built up. Filling of lateral hip dips is accomplished with fat transfer. The amount of filling of the lateral hips is based on the patient’s individual preference for how exaggerated they wish their curves to be.
Patients actually chose their lateral hip prominence using a chart called the Brazilian Butt Lift Assessment tool The reason the lateral hip contour is so important to the liposuction of the lateral thighs is that the lateral thighs provide the junction between the lateral hip and lower leg contour.
In females, the lateral thighs must provide a smooth transition between the lateral hip and lower leg. As a result, the more prominent the lateral hips are, the less liposuction of the lateral this is required. Additionally, if patients have generous-sized lower legs, then less liposuction of the lateral thighs is required. Finally, liposuction of the lateral thighs should only be done in a deep plane and conservatively. This is because it is prone to skin redundancy and subsequent cellulite appearance. By limiting the liposuction of the lateral thighs to the deeper layer, we leave a uniform superficial layer that ensures a smooth and aesthetically pleasing contour.
Liposuction of the medial thighs
Liposuction of the medial thighs has specific challenges that are related to its intrinsically poor skin texture. Especially along the upper medial thigh, the skin can become crepe in severely loose. Because of this limitation, the liposuction of the medial thighs must always be done cautiously. In fact, any liposuction of the medial thighs can create undesirable skin changes.
Regardless, liposuction of the medial thighs is performed and can achieve excellent results. The first important consideration is to divide the medial thigh into three diamonds, the posterior-medial thigh, the central-medial thigh, and the anterior-medial thigh. What’s unique to the posterior-medial thigh is that it provides structural support to the lower buttock. As such, any liposuction must be kept superficial and avoid stretching of deeper structures that will result in loss of lower buttock support.
Countering thigh skin redundancy
Patients with minimal skin redundancy may benefit from Renuvion J plasma skin tightening. Patients with moderate skin redundancy may benefit from a lateral thigh and buttock tuck. The central-medial thigh diamond is the area inside the inner thighs and is typically associated with crepe skin. Liposuction in this region can be performed in the deep and superficial planes but only conservatively.
If crepe skin is present, patients should be recommended a medial thigh tuck that excises the skin directly. The anterior medial thigh is the most forgiving diamond and can be liposuctioned more aggressively as it typically has excellent skin texture. If skin looseness is minimal, it can be tightened with Renuvion J plasma treatment. When more extensive skin looseness is present, then a mini tummy tuck is often helpful to tighten this region.
The Evolution of Liposuction of the Thighs: Techniques
Initially, liposuction was a straightforward procedure of fat removal. However, advancements in technology have led to more refined techniques, ensuring safer and more effective outcomes. Tumescent liposuction, for instance, uses a solution that minimizes bleeding and eases fat removal, making the procedure less invasive and reducing recovery time. The introduction of ultrasound allowed for more comprehensive removal of fat from both the medial thighs and lateral thighs. Most recently, the introduction of Renuvion J plasma has allowed for the accommodation of loose skin.
Excess skin can be present over both the inner thighs and outer thighs. When outer thigh fat is removed, the skin is more forgiving and usually recoils back. In contrast, the removal of fat deposits from the inner thighs is typically compounded by skin redundancy that is usually present. The surgical procedure to remove fat will compound this redundancy and compromise attempts at establishing a thigh gap.
Who Benefits from Liposuction of the Thighs?
Ideal Candidates for the Procedure
The best candidates for liposuction of the thighs are those in good health, who have tried other methods to slim down their thighs without success. It’s crucial to have realistic expectations and understand that liposuction is more about body contouring than significant weight loss.
Personalized Consultation: The First Step
A consultation with a qualified cosmetic or plastic surgeon is essential. During this session, the surgeon evaluates your health, discusses your goals, and determines if thigh liposuction is suitable for you. This is also an opportunity to address any concerns or questions you might have.
Preparing for Liposuction of the Thighs
Steps to Ensure a Successful Outcome
Preparation is key to a smooth procedure and recovery. This includes following pre-surgery instructions, arranging for transportation and recovery time, and setting up a comfortable space at home for post-surgery rest.
The Surgical Process Explained
Thigh liposuction is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions in the thighs, through which a cannula is inserted to remove fat. The procedure is meticulously done to ensure even fat removal and sculpting.
Post-Procedure Recovery and Care
Navigating the Recovery Phase
Post-surgery, patients can expect some swelling and sensitivity in the treated areas. It’s important to stay hydrated, rest adequately, and follow all post-operative care instructions, including the use of compression garments and avoiding pressure on the thighs.
Anticipating the Results
While some results are visible immediately, the final outcome of thigh liposuction becomes apparent after a few weeks, as the swelling subsides. The results are long-lasting, provided patients maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Complementary Procedures and Overall Body Contouring
Enhancing Results with Additional Treatments
Liposuction can be combined with other procedures for more comprehensive body contouring. Common areas treated alongside the thighs include the knees, hips, abdomen, and arms. Discussing these options with your surgeon can lead to more harmonious and satisfying results.
Understanding the Costs and FAQs
Tailoring the Cost to Individual Needs
The cost of your thigh liposuction procedure varies based on individual treatment plans and goals. The price of this cosmetic surgery is most affected by the size of your thighs and whether or not you will need skin tightening. It’s important to consider the value of the procedure in terms of satisfaction and improved self-image.
Conclusion: Liposuction of the Thighs
In summary, liposuction of the thighs is a routinely performed procedure but must be done with caution. VASER liposuction of thighs provides a unique ability to remove fat comprehensively. When there is skin redundancy, then a supplemental tightening procedure may be recommended. If you are concerned about your medial or lateral thighs, we encourage you to make a consultation with one of our surgeons specializing in liposuction of the thighs.
