Are you considering getting a thigh lift procedure done? If so, you already know that it can be a great way to remove excess skin and fat from the thighs, leading to a more toned and symmetrical appearance. However, in order to achieve the best possible long-term results, it’s important that you take the necessary care to heal properly and maintain the results of your surgery. Below, we’ll discuss the steps involved in the long-term care of a thigh lift, after the surgery.
1. Swelling and Bruising
It’s common to experience swelling and bruising around the surgical area after a thigh lift procedure. This is your body’s natural response to the trauma of surgery and is part of the healing process. Both can last for several weeks and may be more pronounced in some patients than others. To help alleviate some of the discomfort, you can apply a cold pack to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, and keep the head of your bed elevated when you sleep.
2. Pain Management
In the days following your thigh lift procedure, you are likely to experience some discomfort or pain. Your surgeon may prescribe you with pain medication to help manage this pain, which you should take as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen) can also help to alleviate some of the pain. Deep breathing exercises and light stretching can also help to relieve muscle tension and aid in the healing process.
3. Scar Care
Thigh lift procedures result in scars that are typically located in the hip area, running from the groin to the knee area. Keeping the surgical area clean and properly bandaged can help to speed the healing process and reduce the risk of developing an infection. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions when it comes to aftercare, and make sure to notify them if you notice any signs of infection, such as redness or pus around the scar.
4. Compression Garments
Wearing a compression garment is often recommended after a thigh lift procedure to reduce swelling and provide support to the surgical area. The compression garment should be worn around the clock for the first few days, and then as recommended by your surgeon. Make sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions when it comes to wearing the compression garment, and make an effort to keep it clean.
5. Diet and Exercise
Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in light exercise can help to promote the healing process and prevent the formation of blood clots. Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet consisting of lean proteins, leafy greens, and whole grains, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Light exercise, such as walking, is also recommended to help improve circulation and reduce the risk of developing blood clots.
6. Follow-Up Appointments
Monitoring your healing progress is important, and it’s recommended to follow up with your surgeon at regular intervals to ensure everything is healing as it should. At these appointments, your surgeon may provide additional recommendations for aftercare or prescribe additional medications, if necessary. Your surgeon can also give you an idea of when you can expect to see the final results of your thigh lift procedure.
Conclusion
Thigh lift surgery can provide a dramatic improvement in the appearance of the thighs, but in order to achieve the best long-term results, it’s important to take the necessary care after the surgery. This includes properly managing swelling and bruising, taking the prescribed pain medication, proper scar care, the use of compression garments, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, and following up with your surgeon as needed. By taking the necessary steps for long-term care after a thigh lift procedure, you can help to ensure the best possible results.