Thigh reduction surgery using high definition liposuction principles intends to improve thigh appearance optimally.
Fat excess must first be removed using VASER liposuction. When skin redundancy is minimal, VASER liposuction alone can tighten the skin because of the skin retraction that occurs following the comprehensive removal of fat as well as the natural heat production associated with ultrasound energy.
When there is minimal to moderate skin redundancy, then Renuvion® subdermal coagulation technology is utilized to tighten the skin. This modality utilized helium activated radiofrequency energy that literally cooks the underlying deep skin surface causing a shrink-wrap effect. When moderate to severe skin redundancy is present, then a tucking procedure such as a medial thigh tuck or lateral thigh tuck can be performed synchronously to remove all skin redundancy.
Differences in the lateral thigh and medial thigh skin quality must be taken into account. In general, the lateral skin has increased elasticity and will snap following fat removal with VASER liposuction. However, the medial thigh skin routinely loses its elasticity early in life as depicted by its crepe looking appearance, especially over the upper inner thigh region. Furthermore, differences in contour nuances should be recognized between the medial and lateral thighs. The lateral thigh fat should be conservatively removed as there needs to be a smooth transition between the more generous mid buttocks and the narrower lower leg. In contrast, the medial thigh fat should be aggressively removed to create the aesthetically pleasing thigh gap; however, aggressive fat removal must be balanced with the management of increased skin redundancy and poor skin texture as discussed above.
Thigh reduction surgery requires an intimate balance of excess fat and redundant skin. When contoured appropriately, dramatic improvements can be appreciated in the lower buttocks and thigh region.
