Thighplasty in the Weight Loss Patient

ABSTRACT

Thighplasty after massive weight loss is daunting. The deformity is complex and difficult to treat. The therapeutic index is narrow. A range of only centimeters of medial thigh skin resection width can mean the difference between residual skin laxity and unsightly descended scars. Wound closure is awkward. The scar from vertical extension excisions is exposed. Delayed healing is common. Prolonged edema and thrombophlebitis loom. Disappointed with prevalent lower body and thigh recontouring procedures, I evolved a comprehensive approach, which includes the “L thighplasty.” The “L” relates to the shape of the excision and resulting scar with the long limb along the medial thigh and the short limb between the thigh and labia majora and mons pubis. The planning, technique and selected results are presented.

KEYWORDS

Medial thighplasty - weight loss surgery - lower body lift

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