No woman imagines that the breast implants that she gets during her breast augmentation cosmetic surgery might one day need to be removed. However, many women who have breast implants decide to have them removed at some point of time. 

Numerous factors, such as lifestyle changes, a breast cancer diagnosis, or experiencing complications, such as capsular contracture, may be some of the reasons for seeking breast implant removal surgery. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides breast implant removal to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

 

What is Breast Implant Removal?

Breast implant removal surgery is a procedure that reverses breast enlargement. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the breast implants or revises their size and shape. At some point, many women who have received breast implant surgery will require another breast implant revision procedure, such as:

• Implant removal and subsequent replacement with new implants
• Repositioning the existing implants
• Implant removal without replacement

The plastic surgeon may recommend the removal of the breast implants if a patient experiences complications with her implants, such as infection or capsular contracture. 

 

Who is Breast Implant Removal Surgery Suitable for?

Women usually choose to have their breast implants removed for the below-mentioned reasons:

• Implant complications: Implant folding, deflation (if the implants contain saline), or rupture are some complications associated with breast implants.
• Personal preference: Some women may feel that their breast implants are not the right size or shape. The implants may have shifted from their initial position over time due to pregnancies, weight gain, or weight loss.
• Other complications: Infection, tension bands asymmetry, capsular contracture, leakage of silicone, and displacement.

 

What happens during Breast Implant Removal Surgery?

Breast implant removal plastic surgery is performed with the patient under general anesthesia. It takes between one to three hours to complete. The patient may be able to go back home on the day of the surgery itself, depending on her recovery. 

The three most common breast removal surgery techniques are:

Breast Implant Removal Only

The surgeon will make the incision in the same region as where the incisions were placed for the original breast augmentation surgery. In cases of capsular contracture, they will remove the tightened capsules to expedite the process of healing. 

Breast Implant Removal with a Breast Lift

The cosmetic surgeon may perform a breast lift along with breast implant removal in cases where the breast skin is sagging or has been stretched. They will remove any excess breast skin and tighten the breast tissue for stronger support. The surgeon may also, at times, re-size the areolas to fit the new breast shape more appropriately.  

Deflation

With saline breast implants, the cosmetic surgeon may decide to deflate them without undertaking surgery. The deflation can take place in-office under local anesthesia. The results of this deflation will determine whether the patient requires further surgery, such as a breast implant replacement surgery or a breast lift. 

 

Recovery after Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Most women report experiencing minimal discomfort after the procedure and are able to return to work in five days. Patients who have had breast implants removed due to capsular contracture will experience more discomfort and a prolonged recovery period. 

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for breast implant removal.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

Many individuals are unhappy with the size or shape of their ears right from childhood. For these types of people, ear reshaping plastic surgery (otoplasty) offers an effective solution to change the shape of their ears. This corrective surgery is popular among both adults and children.

Otoplasty is an outpatient procedure that can help change the size, shape, or orientation of the ears for people who are unhappy with their ear appearance. 

If an individual seeks ear pinning or ear reshaping surgery, it is important for them to garner all vital information before arriving at a decision on the procedure.

Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides otoplasty to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

 

Ideal Candidates

An ideal ear surgery candidate is any person who is in good general health and unhappy about the appearance of their misshapen, oversized, flapping, or asymmetrical ears. 

This surgery may also be appropriate for children with deformed or misshapen ears if they are at least five years of age, and the ear cartilage is completely formed and stable. Ear reshaping cosmetic surgery is suitable for teenagers and adults alike. 

 

Traditional vs. Reconstructive Otoplasty

Traditional otoplasty, also known as ear pinning, involves “pinning” back extruding or oversized ears towards the patient’s head. This helps create a more natural ear appearance. Reconstructive ear surgery helps correct severe ear defects that can develop from birth or external trauma. 

 

Surgical Procedure 

Otoplasty is undertaken using mild general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. If the ears are prominent, the surgeon may enhance the anti-helical fold inside the ear rim. Simultaneously, they will decrease the size of an enlarged conchal cavity.

The surgeon will usually place incisions behind the ears to enable the scars to remain discreet. Some patients may need ear surgery on the front side. The incisions will be made within the ear folds, even in such cases. The freshly re-shaped cartilage will then be sutured into a desirable position.

After the procedure is complete, the surgeon will seal the incisions with external sutures. The results of this cosmetic surgery procedure usually last for a lifetime.

 

Ear Reduction Surgery

Some patients are more concerned about the size and shape of their ears rather than their protrusion of the ears from the side of the head. An ear surgery technique, known as “ear reduction” surgery is used to contour oversized ears, providing patients with a more natural appearance. 

Earlobe reduction may be a part of ear reduction surgery, and it is an outpatient procedure. In this surgery, the plastic surgeon removes unwanted cartilage and skin and re-shapes the ear to create a smaller, more natural-looking size. Ear reduction surgery offers balance and symmetry to the ears and face and is typically undertaken along with ear pinning.

 

Recovery 

The recovery duration can differ between two patients, depending on whether one or both ears are receiving surgery and the extent of the procedure. Most patients will be able to resume their normal routine or return to the workplace in one week after the surgery. 

The patient may need pain medications during the initial few days after the surgery to remain comfortable. The inflammation and bruising will subside significantly from the second week onwards. Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for otoplasty.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

For an intricate procedure such as ear reshaping cosmetic surgery (otoplasty), it is important for patients to choose an experienced and well-qualified surgeon. 

This procedure is relatively safe, but it does involve some risks, akin to any surgical procedure. Therefore, the patient should work with a surgeon with a proven record of safe and predictable results. 

Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides otoplasty to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding communities. 

 

Identifying the Right Surgeon

The results of ear reshaping surgery will last for many years into the future, possibly the patient’s entire lifespan. For this reason, they should devote adequate time to identify a surgeon who will offer them their desired appearance. 

Choosing the right surgeon may seem like a daunting task with countless doctors offering plastic surgery. But certain criteria can make it easier for the patient to make the correct choice. 

The patient should seek an experienced cosmetic surgeon with a proven record of developing excellent otoplasty outcomes. Many surgeons may be specialists in a specific procedure, but not have practical experience in facial surgeries. Such surgeons are likely not the right choice for a patient seeking ear surgery.

Patients should work with a surgeon who has training in the management of surgical complications. While the chances of the development of such complications are low, working with a surgeon with expertise in this area will reduce the risks even further.

On the other hand, the patient should evaluate whether the surgeon in consideration has a proven record. Prospective patients are entitled to receive all relevant details from each state medical board. 

 

Experience

Ideally, the patient should choose a surgeon with specialized training in plastic surgery, likely an ABPS board-certified surgeon. However, it is also vital to understand whether the surgeon has requisite hands-on experience in the area.

In case the patient seeks a specific type of otoplasty technique or desires additional facial procedures, they should identify a surgeon with experience in these specific procedures. 

 

Bedside Manner

Working with an approachable surgeon who makes the patient feel comfortable will likely offer them higher satisfaction levels with the final outcomes. 

Patients should seek a surgeon who is willing to devote time to them, respond to their questions in a detailed manner, and develop a customized surgical plan. At the same time, they should try to avoid a surgeon who pressures them to undergo more treatment than they actually need or want. 

 

Desirable Attributes of an Ear Surgeon

 

• Compassionate, warm, and easy to talk to

• Inclined to provide the patient with thorough information on otoplasty

• Devoted to the idea of making a difference in the patient’s life through plastic surgery procedures

• Provides customized care and attention to every patient

• Ability to comprehend the aesthetic needs, hopes, desires, and aspirations of the patient

• Possesses a sense of balance, form, and proportion

• Has detailed knowledge of the facial anatomy

• Makes use of the latest techniques to ensure that the ear reshaping surgery is minimally invasive and causes as little scarring as possible

 

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for otoplasty.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

The recovery process signifies a vital part of any surgical process, including ear reshaping plastic surgery (otoplasty). During the recovery period, the patient should undertake all precautions to enjoy a safe and predictable healing process. 

The surgeon will offer the patient information on the approximate downtime, post-op care, maintenance of surgical drains, and usual post-surgical symptoms, and indications of possible complications. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides otoplasty to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

 

Initial Post-Operative Stage

Following otoplasty surgery, the patient will have dressing wrapped around their ears. After the surgeon evaluates the incision sites, they will replace this bulky bandage with a lighter dressing. The patient should ensure that the dressing stays in place unless instructed otherwise by the plastic surgeon.

The patient will typically be able to go back home from the surgical facility on the same day. However, they should ask a responsible person to drive them back home after their otoplasty procedure. 

The surgeon may prescribe mild pain drugs to allow the patient to remain comfortable for the initial few days after their ear surgery.

 

Recovery Duration

Ideally, the patient should ask someone to offer them assistance at home, for at least the initial 24 hours following the cosmetic surgery. 

In the initial week after the procedure, the patient should get adequate rest but undertake mild walks and light activities within their home to enhance the blood flow to the incision sites.

In order to manage the discomfort, the patient should keep their head in a raised position. They should avoid resting their head on the treated ear to prevent throbbing and pain. The surgeon will inform the patient on the time of the bandage removal and may prescribe an antibiotic cream for the incision areas. 

In nearly one week after the ear reshaping surgery, the patient will need to visit the surgeon’s office for removal of drains and sutures. The process of recovery will differ between patients. However, most patients can return to their normal routine in around one week. 

The final results of the procedure will begin to become apparent in around two weeks. But minor improvements in the ear(s) may continue to happen for up to a year. 

 

Sustainability of Results

For a specified period before and after otoplasty, patients should refrain from smoking and taking certain drugs, such as blood-thinning medications. This will reduce the risk of slow healing and aid in the recovery process. The outcomes of ear surgery usually sustain for the patient’s entire lifetime, unless there are any incidents that impact the ear size and shape.

It is important for patients to visit the surgeon for their scheduled follow-up appointments and exams in a responsible manner. If they notice any abnormal changes or other symptoms, they should immediately contact their plastic surgeon.

 

Choose a Balanced Diet 

A balanced diet consists of vital nutrients that offer strength to the immune system and mitigate the risk of infection for a safe recovery process. The patients should consume adequate amounts of lean protein such as eggs, fish, yogurt, and light cheese for faster recovery after their otoplasty procedure. 

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for otoplasty.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

It can be challenging to broach the topic of plastic surgery in a world where we want our children and family to appreciate our natural appearance and feel proud of who we are. 

This discussion involves a tricky balance, especially when a family member is trying to explain their decision to undergo cosmetic surgery in order to alter their physical looks in certain ways. 

Plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak concurs that it is indeed a delicate matter. She agrees that it a tough concept to discuss with someone, particularly close friends and family, about undergoing surgery to alter one’s appearance. Dr. Hustak informed that her father-in-law is a psychologist and she has had a discussion with him on this topic as well. 

Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

 

The Age of Your Child/Children Matter

When a parent makes the choice to undergo some type of cosmetic surgery, it is time to let their children get used to the idea that mom or dad will appear different soon. According to Dr. Hustak, the key is to take into consideration the age of the children. 

It can be tempting to hide surgical plans, but communication between children and parents about this issue is crucial. 

Patients should explain plans in a manner that is appropriate for the maturity level and age of each child. Younger children require fewer details while older children can make sense of a more open discussion about cosmetic surgery. 

Dr. Hustak advises patients to consider the age of the party receiving the information. She further states that the discussion on plastic surgery with a five-year-old will be much different than a 13-year-old, an 18-year-old, and a 30-year-old. Therefore, according to Dr. Hustak, taking age into consideration helps. 

 

Another Approach: Comparing Surgery to Other Changes

Exploring the field of plastic surgery and sharing some details openly with children can enable parents to prepare them for the process and the results. 

Dr. Hustak further says that explaining to kids how mom’s body changed after giving birth and what the specific procedure can do to fix her muscles can be significantly beneficial. She feels that highlighting the functional benefits may also make it easier to understand the procedure across all age groups. 

 

Consider a Short ‘Vacation’ away from Really Young Kids

Many young children tend to feel scared to see their mom coming home with bruises and bandages, or get concerned upon hearing that their mom is undergoing a change. Therefore, young kids do not need to know the intricate details of the surgery. 

It may be a good idea to schedule the procedure while they are away at a friend’s or grandparent’s house, or at camp. Alternatively, the patient can consider recovering at a friend or loved one’s place. 

In case children will be around as the patient recovers, they should let the kids know in advance that they are undergoing a procedure. 

The patient may choose to not explain the exact nature of the procedure to them, but should at least prepare them to expect certain changes. It is important to reassure small children that despite the bruises and bandages, mom or dad will be alright. 

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for plastic and reconstructive surgery. 

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

Otoplasty, also called ear pinning, is a cosmetic surgery procedure to reshape the ears to develop a more attractive and balanced facial appearance. 

The surgeon may use multiple surgical techniques to undertake the otoplasty procedure. The steps of the procedure may vary slightly based on the technique used. 

At the time of the pre-op consultation, the surgeon will explain the ear reshaping surgery as well as the steps involved in the procedure to the patient. The patient should unhesitatingly ask the surgeon any questions that they may have about the surgery or the surgeon’s credentials to make an enlightened choice.

Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides ear reshaping surgery to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding communities. 

 

Anesthesia 

A majority of ear reshaping procedures will be relatively less invasive and necessitate only local anesthesia with sedation for an adult patient. But in the case of children, the surgeon will typically undertake this procedure using general anesthesia. 

An anesthesiologist or a certified nurse anesthetist will administer the general anesthesia as well as oversee the entire procedure to monitor the patient’s response to the anesthetic. Otoplasty surgery usually takes less than two hours to complete. 

 

Incision and Cartilage Reshaping

The surgeon will begin the ear pinning plastic surgery after anesthesia by making an incision behind the ear. They will make this incision in a discreet manner to make sure that any future scarring remains hidden. The incision will give the surgeon access to the ear cartilage to allow them to reshape it properly.

The surgeon will reshape the cartilage in a precise and delicate manner to enhance the symmetry and proportion of the ears. If the ears are oversized, a large amount of cartilage may be removed. The surgeon will eliminate loose skin through the same incisions.

 

Ear Repositioning

If the ear is quite protuberant, the surgeon will need to reposition it closer to the sides of the head after cartilage reshaping. This is called ear pinning.

This step will typically involve cartilage sparing and scoring techniques in combination with removing skin from the back of the ear. The surgeon will customize the techniques to achieve the desired shape and position of the ears in a minimally invasive way.

 

Incision Closure 

Once the reshaping is complete, the surgeon will use absorbable or traditional sutures to close the incisions and then wrap the incision site in bandages temporarily.

 

Outpatient Procedure

Once the surgery is complete, the patient will be shifted to a recovery area. They may be able to go home in a few hours after the initial effects of the surgery and anesthesia wear off.

The patient should ask a responsible individual to drive them home after the surgery. If the patient is a child, the surgeon may ask them to remain at the hospital overnight for close monitoring.

Ear reshaping surgery may involve further steps if it is a reconstructive procedure to correct a birth defect or repair injuries such as lacerations, burns, or infected and torn piercings.

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for otoplasty.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

Otoplasty, also known as ear reshaping surgery, is a relatively less invasive plastic surgery procedure. But some risks and complications which are inherent to any surgical procedure also apply to ear surgery. 

The choice to undergo otoplasty is a personal one, and the patient should evaluate the potential benefits and risks to make the right decision. 

During the pre-operative consultation, the surgeon will inform the patient about the potential risks and safety aspects to enable them to make an enlightened decision. The patient will also have to sign consent forms stating that they have understood the procedure, the alternative treatment options available, and the potential side effects.

If a small child is undergoing the procedure, their parents or guardians will have a vital role in making the decision regarding the procedure. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides ear reshaping surgery to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

Bleeding (Hematoma)

In rare cases, there may be bleeding in the wounds during otoplasty surgery or during the recovery phase. The surgeon can reduce this risk by cautiously determining any underlying health condition of the patient and making sure that they do not take blood thinners, NSAIDs and specific types of herbal supplements and vitamins for a few days prior to the surgery. 

Blood Clotting

Another rare risk associated with otoplasty is blood clot formation. In case the patient has a history of clot formation, they will be at an increased risk. The surgeon will assess the medical records of the patient to identify such matters. On their part, the patient should volunteer pertinent medical information for their own safety. 

Asymmetry 

Otoplasty may be undertaken in one or both ears. There is a risk of asymmetry in either case. While both ears are never entirely symmetrical or identical, they should appear natural. 

Infection

Similar to any surgical procedure, the risk of infection is inherent to otoplasty. The surgical facility should be sterile and hygienic. After the surgery, the patient should not expose the incision sites to contaminants. The surgeon may prescribe antibiotics for some days to reduce the risk of infection after the cosmetic surgery. 

Slow Healing

In a few cases, the post-operative healing may be slow, and the wound may heal poorly. Patients who smoke are typically at a higher risk of slow healing. For this reason, the surgeon will ask the patient to avoid smoking for a specified duration before their otoplasty procedure.

Poor Anesthesia Reaction

Ear reshaping surgery may be undertaken on children using general anesthesia. Adults may undergo the procedure with local anesthesia and sedation. Some patients may experience a poor response to anesthesia. An anesthesiologist or a nurse anesthetist should oversee the patient’s reaction during the procedure to identify any concerns in a prompt manner. 

The other risks associated with ear reshaping surgery are numbness, unwanted scarring, skin discoloration, prolonged inflammation, and the possibility of revision surgery. Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for ear reshaping surgery. 

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

Otoplasty, commonly called ear reshaping plastic surgery, requires some advance preparation prior to scheduling the date of the procedure. 

The surgeon will offer detailed guidelines for preparation during the initial consultation. There should be sufficient gap between the initial consultation and the date of the surgery to be able to undertake the preparatory steps. 

Sometimes, the surgeon may recommend a few pre-operative tests, which will be scheduled well in advance of the otoplasty. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides ear reshaping surgery to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

 

Weeks before Ear Surgery

In case the patient is taking any blood thinners, NSAIDs, or herbal supplements and vitamins, they will need to stop taking them for a specified duration before the otoplasty procedure. In case the patient is a child, the preparatory process may include parental or professional counseling to make sure that the child is ready and comfortable to undergo the procedure.

The parents or guardian should also inform the child’s school well ahead of the procedure as the child will have to remain at home for a few days after ear surgery and is likely to miss a few days at school. In addition, the surgeon will also showcase otoplasty before and after images to the patient to help them develop realistic expectations. 

Smokers will need to discontinue smoking for a minimum of a few days prior to ear reshaping surgery. Stemming from that point, the patient may also need to make advance arrangements for aftercare for the initial few days of the recovery phase, if required. 

 

A Day before the Surgery

If the ear reshaping plastic surgery is planned to be performed with general anesthesia, the surgeon will direct the patient to avoid eating or drinking anything for eight hours before the procedure. 

Working professionals should apply for a leave of around one week from the workplace. The patient should also enlist someone responsible to drive them back home from the surgical facility.

Arranging for items such as pain drugs, ice packs, gauze bandage, and extra pillows at home in advance of the procedure can make the immediate post-operative stage more comfortable. 

 

The Day of Surgery

The patient should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the surgical venue. They should avoid wearing any garments that are restrictive or need to be pulled overhead. Special care should be taken in the case of children to ensure that nothing bends or pulls at the ears following the surgery.

The patient should thoroughly wash their hair on the morning of the surgery. Women may braid or pin their hair, while men may have a hair cut if required. Also, the patient should avoid wearing jewelry, body piercings, contact lenses, or makeup to the surgery center. Patients who are diabetic should get their vital parameters assessed on the morning of their otoplasty procedure. 

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for otoplasty.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

Thigh lift cosmetic surgery involves a considerable recovery process. If the patient follows the post-operative guidelines of the plastic surgeon, attends follow-up appointments, and ensures that the incisions are not exposed to contaminants, it can significantly expedite the thigh lift recovery process. 

Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides thigh lift to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding communities. 

 

Immediate Post-Op Stage

After the thigh lift plastic surgery is complete, the surgeon will wrap the incisions in bandages, and the patient will likely have temporary drain tubes to prevent the accumulation of fluid. The plastic surgeon will direct the patient to wear a compression garment for the initial few days to hold the incisions in position. 

Initially, the patient will not be allowed to sit to avoid strain on the incisions. After the effect of the anesthesia wears off, the patient will be given prescription pain medication to ease any discomfort. 

When the patient is able to walk around in a comfortable manner, they will be permitted to leave the surgical facility with a responsible driver. 

 

First Week 

In the initial one to two days, the patient will need assistance with routine daily tasks as going to the bathroom or cooking. 

Ice therapy should also be applied to the thighs during this stage to improve the inflammation. The patient should rest the body in such a manner that the thigh tissue is not stretched. Patients usually use extra pillows to take the strain off the legs. 

The patient may cautiously shower after eliminating the compression garment and bandages two days after a thigh lift. In the initial week, they should remain at home, but undertake gentle walks and light activities within the premises to maintain the blood supply in the incision areas. 

The surgeon may remove drains and sutures if the incisions have healed adequately at the end of the first week. 

 

Next Few Weeks

Many patients may be able to resume work in the second week if they can cautiously sit on their thighs with the help of pillows. At this stage, the scarring will be more prominent. However, it will progressively subside in the following months. The patient should continue to wear the compression garment all the time, except when bathing.

The surgeon may recommend the patient to discontinue using the compression garment after a month. At this time, the inflammation and bruising would have resolved significantly. If the patient still experiences pain and swelling, it could be an indication of a complication, and they should inform the surgeon promptly.

 

Next Few Months

The patient may be able to resume their routine exercise regimen in around six to eight weeks after receiving clearance from the surgeon. 

They may also be able to lift around five pounds at this time. The scars would have faded in around two to three months and may continue improving for several more months. 

The recovery process will be completed in around six months to one year. At this time, the patient can enjoy their new, youthful thigh contours. Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for thigh lift.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.

Thigh Lift Plastic Surgery

A thigh lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves the removal of excess fat and skin from the inner or outer thighs, or both, to improve thigh contours. 

This procedure should only be performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. It is suitable for patients who are unable to eliminate excess tissue in their upper thighs with diet or exercise alone. 

The surgeon may sometimes recommend combining liposuction with thigh re-contouring to develop more youthful thigh contours. 

To enjoy the new shape of the thighs for a long time, the patient should be committed to maintaining a balanced diet and active lifestyle. East fast food all the time and not ever working out is not an ideal lifestyle to retain that coveted shape, for instance.

Many people have an exercise machine right in front of their TV so they can watch a movie or a sporting event while they keep the calories at bay.  

Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides thigh lift to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding locations.

 

Appropriate Candidates

The following individuals usually make suitable candidates for thigh lift surgery:

• Significant weight loss has caused sagging skin in the thighs
• Aging effects have led to saggy thighs and the appearance of cellulite
• Heavy thighs prevent the patient from wearing clothes of their choice
• Poor contours and loss of body proportion due to excess tissue in the inner or outer thighs or loose thigh skin

 

Procedure Steps

Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift

The cosmetic surgeon will place an incision in the groin area after administering anesthesia to the patient. Excess fat and skin along the inner aspect of the thigh will be removed via the incision. Liposuction may be added to the procedure, depending on the patient’s condition of fatty pockets. 

The surgeon will re-contour the area from the groin to the knee as well as repeat the same steps for the outer thigh. In a few cases, thighplasty may be undertaken, which involves a more substantive removal of a wedge of tissue. 

 

Outer (Lateral) Thigh Lift 

This procedure is typically more intricate, and often involves re-contouring of the buttocks along with the outer thighs. It involves the removal of more tissue. 

The patient will need to manage their post-treatment weight as the skin will become less elastic following the plastic surgery. The scarring will also be slightly more noticeable. 

 

Incision and Scar Appearance 

In the case of a medial thigh lift, the incisions will be made in the groin area. However, if the patient requires a substantial removal of sagging skin, the surgeon may place a longitudinal incision along the inner thigh.

For a lateral thigh lift, the incision will extend from the groin, around the hip, and likely also include a buttock fold incision. A qualified surgeon will make discreet incisions to ensure that any future scars can be hidden with clothing. 

 

Recovery 

The new, smooth, and youthful thigh contours will be noticeable immediately. However, the patient will undergo a few days of bruising, inflammation, and soreness in the incision sites. In the initial month, the patient may need to wear a compression garment to optimize the new contours. 

Inflammation will slowly resolve over three to five weeks. A majority of patients can resume their routine in around one week to ten days. However, they should avoid vigorous activities for about six weeks. 

Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for thigh lift.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.