Inner Thigh Lift

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complication. Surgery and anaesthesia are safe and it is unlikely you will experience any difficulty. However, there are areas of potential problems you need to understand before proceeding with your surgery. You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following instructions before and after surgery.

Bleeding:
Bleeding can be problematical in about 2% of cases. It is possible in cases bleeding that return to the operating theatre will be necessary.

Infection:
If infection occurs it will usually become evident within one week of surgery and may delay the healing process or result in the development of scar tissue. This may also require treatment with antibitics. Further, in the unlikely event of infection, the ultimate result of the surgery may be adversely affected.

Anaesthesia:
The surgery is done under a general anaesthetic and the anaesthetist will discuss the possible discomforts following anaesthesia. Your anaesthetist can answer any questions you have regarding your anaesthetic at the time of surgery.

Scarring:
All surgery carries risks and every incision leaves a scar. Scars do however fade over a one to two year period and become much less noticeable. The scar of brachioplasty is never invisible. But Dr Drielsma places it in a position that minimises its visibility. Dr Drielsma will explain the nature in full to you before surgery.

Sensation:
Some change in sensation for up to six months is common as bruised nerves are recovering. Further, some minor residual permanent alteration in sensation may occur.

Fluid Collection:
A seroma is a collection of fluid under the skin and fat. If this occurs it may take a few weeks to absorb. Wearing the pressure garment will help reduce this risk.

Lymphoedema:
Lymphoedema is swelling of the arm due to damage to lymph channels from the arm. Using modern techniques as described above which preserve lymphatic tissue, the chance of this problem, once common, is now rare.

Lymphoedema is swelling of the leg due to damage to lymph channels from the groin. Using modern techniques as described above which preserve lymphatic tissue, the chance of this problem, once common, is now rare.

Important points to remember before proceeding with surgery:

• There can be no absolute guarantee with any surgery. In the hands of any experienced surgeon, a secondary operation to correct a minor irregularity may be needed.
• Should there be any questions regarding inner thigh lift (thighplasty), be sure they are answered in advance by Dr Drielsma. Well meaning friends are not a good source of information. Find out everything before the operation – a well informed patient is a happy one.
• It is important that you make the decision to proceed with surgery for yourself, not anyone else.

The next step when considering cosmetic surgery is a consultation with Dr Drielsma. You will be shown before and after photos, your suitability for surgery will be assessed and the procedure will be explained fully to you in detail.

The above information should not be regarded as a substitute for information and advice provided by Dr Drielsma during consultation.