The Thigh/Buttocks Lift

     Finally, there exists an excellent procedure to lift the thighs and the buttocks.  The procedure allows a significant lift that is both long lasting and creates an excellent reshaping of the thigh/buttocks area.  The beauty of this operation is that the incision is placed in such a way that it is hidden in the bikini line.

How Long Does It Last?

     The Thigh/Buttocks Lift is quite long lasting (10 to 20 years).  As long as large weight loss and gain are avoided, and the general health remains good, then there are long lasting improvements.  Over time, however, the normal aging process will cause relaxation of the tissues.  The extent of relaxation and the time for that to occur depends in large measure on the elasticity of the skin.  Avoiding sun exposure, smoking, and shifts in weight, increases the length of time that the results will remain.

 The Operation

    
  The Thigh/Buttocks Lift is performed most commonly under Light Sleep Anesthesia.  Local anesthesia is then used to numb the thigh/buttocks area.   The operation is performed by making an incision in the bikini line.  The incision will go from hip to hip and extend around to the front of the abdomen in the bikini line, so that it is well hidden.  The skin and fat are dissected off of the buttocks and thigh muscles, and the tissues are then retracted superiorly.  The outer thigh is then liposuctioned to shape the newly positioned and tightened tissues, and two drains are placed under the skin.  Sometimes this procedure is performed with a tummy tuck.  In that instance, this procedure and the tummy tuck together are called a Belt Lipectomy.

The First Four Weeks After Surgery

 The patient is able to walk immediately after surgery and is, in fact, encouraged to do so three or four times per day for one to two minutes each time.  The drains that have been placed will generally be removed four to 14 days after surgery.  The patient should take it easy for two weeks after surgery.  A pressure garment will be in place, and the patient will wear this for about three to four weeks.

     Some swelling and discoloration is normal, but generally this is minimal.  The amount of pain associated with this procedure is quite variable.  Most patients note a mild to moderate amount of discomfort, and for some it is more intense.  The patient is normally back to non- strenuous work in two to three weeks and back to full exercising in five weeks.