Thigh Lift After Weight Loss Columbus

After losing a great deal of weight in the thigh area due to bariatric surgery, many patients in Columbus and around Ohio continue to experience problems related to excess skin remaining on the body. These difficulties range from ill-fitting clothing to uncomfortable rashes, and can generally only be solved through excess skin removal. Columbus doctor Bivik Shah understands the frustrations experienced by these patients and can help them to achieve their final weight loss goals by performing thigh lift. Thigh lift is a common component of excess skin removal following bariatric surgery. Columbus patients of Dr. Bivik Shah can choose the most convenient location at which to undergo their thigh lift, whether it is the Institute of Plastic Surgery or at one of the other hospitals in the area at which Dr. Shah has privileges.

Because they generally require longer incisions than traditional plastic surgery, post-bariatric skin removal procedures such as thigh lift, arm lift, or breast lift result in somewhat longer recovery periods and increased chance of noticeable scarring. Dr. Shah uses every available method to minimize these scars as much as possible. In the case of excess thigh skin removal, Columbus surgeon Bivik Shah makes two incisions. The first one is from the inside of the knee to the groin; then, they make the second incision perpendicular to the first, along the crease of the groin. The skin is tightened and sutured into its new position.

This type of post- bariatric surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis; Ohio patients can generally expect to go home on the same day as their surgery. People in jobs that do not require strenuous activity can usually return to work within seven to 14 days, providing they follow all of Dr. Shah’s postoperative instructions. Patients will need to wear compression garments on their thighs for about a month and a half in order to minimize swelling and to aid healing.

When thinking of having a thighplasty, it is important to allow enough time to heal. A thighplasty is one of the most delicate surgery’s we do here at Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery. About 70% – 85% of our patients’ incisions end up opening slightly. We don’t say this to scare you but rather to prepare you that this procedure requires patience and rest for best results. To try and avoid tension on the incision we stress the importance of keeping your activity to the absolute minimum in the first couple weeks. The use of a walker is highly suggested for support. When an incision opens it will heal just fine but will require more time for wound healing. Your thighs will be wrapped in ace bandages to help decrease swelling as well as having a drain tube on each leg to help drain any built up fluid under the skin. When caring for your incisions after surgery it’s important to keep the incision as clean and dry as possible. Our staff will be with you every step of the way and are available with all post operative care questions.

As with any post- bariatric surgery, Ohio doctor Bivik Shah warns that there can be complications connected to thigh lift. Fluid production is normal after surgery, and fluids should be reabsorbed by the body without difficulty; however, if this fails to happen, Dr. Shah can easily drain the fluid manually. Infection at the incision site and blood clots are also possible, but are usually very rare. It is important to allow plenty of time for healing, as sutures in the thigh area are especially delicate. If you are unhappy with the way your thighs look after bariatric surgery, the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery can help. After your excess skin has been removed, you can finally start wearing shorts, skirts, and swimwear without being self-conscious.

If you would like to learn more about your post-bariatric surgery options, please contact our plastic surgery practice today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bivik Shah.