After a thigh lift, some discomfort is normal, but many find it manageable with prescribed pain medication and proper post-operative care. The surgery involves lifting and tightening the skin and underlying tissue, which can result in soreness, swelling, and a pulling sensation along the inner thighs. Many patients report that the first few days are the most uncomfortable, but pain typically decreases steadily within the first week. While everyone’s pain tolerance varies, most patients describe the experience as moderate and well-controlled with medications and supportive care.

Thigh lift surgery typically involves a pre-operative consultation, the surgical procedure itself, and several follow-up appointments to monitor healing and assess the results. Patients have an initial consultation with Dr. Craft to discuss goals, examine the thighs, and create a personalized surgical plan. After the procedure, a follow-up visit is scheduled within the first week to assess the incision sites, remove any drains that may have been used, and address any concerns. Additional follow-ups are often scheduled at two weeks, six weeks, and three months post-surgery to ensure proper healing and optimal results, but the total number of appointments may vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether it’s combined with other surgeries.

Visible improvements from a thigh lift are noticeable almost immediately, as the skin is tightened and excess tissue removed during surgery. However, swelling, bruising, and initial healing can temporarily mask the final contour of the thighs, so most patients begin to see the true results within 6 to 12 weeks, as swelling subsides and the tissues settle into their new shape. Scars will continue to fade over several months to a year, gradually becoming less prominent.

Yes, a thigh lift can often be safely combined with other body contouring procedures, such as a tummy tuck, liposuction, or buttock enhancement, depending on your individual goals and overall health. Combining procedures can help achieve a more balanced and harmonious body contour in a single surgical session, potentially reducing overall recovery time compared to undergoing multiple separate surgeries. Dr. Craft carefully evaluates each patient to ensure that combining procedures is safe and that your body can handle the combined surgical stress.

Like any surgery, a thigh lift carries potential risks; however, serious complications are uncommon when performed by a board-certified surgeon, such as Dr. Craft. Common risks include swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, or minor discomfort along the incision sites. Less common risks can include infection, poor wound healing, scarring, asymmetry, or fluid accumulation, which may require additional care or drainage. Patients with pre-existing medical conditions or those who smoke may have a higher risk of complications, which is why a thorough pre-operative evaluation is essential. Dr. Craft emphasizes patient safety, providing detailed pre- and post-operative instructions, close monitoring during recovery, and prompt management of any concerns to minimize risks and achieve the best possible outcome.

A thigh lift in Phoenix is beneficial for those whose thighs have:

• Wrinkles
• Minor cellulite (greatly improved when combined with Aveli)
• Crepey skin
• Dimpled skin
• Saddlebags
• Loose, sagging skin