Thighplasty: improving aesthetics through revival of the medial, horizontal procedure: a safe and scar saving option

Publication date: Available online 25 October 2017
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Karl Schwaiger, Elisabeth Russe, Klemens Heinrich, Florian Ensat, Gernot Steiner, Gottfried Wechselberger, Michaela Hladik
IntroductionThighplasty is a common bodycontouring procedure, but also associated with a high complication rate. The purpose of this study was to access the outcome of the medial horizontal thigh lift as it is a common surgical technique regarding thigh deformity correction performed at the authors' department. Surgical keysteps, clinical applications, advantages and disadvantages of the procedure are shown. Postoperative evaluation took place with special focus on individual patient satisfaction.MethodsRetrospective analysis of 25 bilateral thigh lifts with single medial horizontal incision line was performed. Evaluated data include patient age, sex, body mass index, combined procedures, additional liposuction, weight loss, former bariatric surgery, comorbidities, smoking status and surgical complications. Follow-up was performed with a standardized protocol and the scar was accessed according to the Vancouver-Scare-Scale. Additionally the patients were asked to complete a questionnaire divided into the sections 'scars', 'postoperative result' and 'sexuality'.ResultsAverage patient-age was 43 years. Average follow-up was 2 years and 8 months. Average weight loss before surgery was 57 kg. 28% of the patients were smoker. 64% had a combined procedure. 36% of all patients additionally received a liposuction of the medial thigh. During follow up we observed in six cases (24%) complications, which were designated as 'minor complications' in five times (conservative management without problems) and 'major complication' in one time (surgical revision). Overall postoperative patient satisfaction was high.Discussion and ConclusionCompared to the horizontal and vertical combined thigh lift with the classic T-shaped incision lines we observed fewer complications and a reduction of postoperative morbidity. Additionally patient satisfaction was very high. We estimate that the main reason therefore is the avoidance of the vertical scar and its associated short- and longterm problems. The evaluated data confirm the medial horizontal thighplasty as a good and valuable surgical option for the management of thigh deformities with moderate skin and tissue excess, localized in the upper part of the thigh.