Dear Readers,
I am Dr. Ahmet Kaplan, a specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery. My greatest motivation is to help patients who struggle with skin sagging after massive weight loss, guiding them on a journey of rebirth. In this article, I want to talk about a procedure that changes lives, both physically and psychologically: combined thigh and tummy tuck surgery.
Losing weight is a tremendous achievement, but the remaining excess, sagging skin can be disheartening for many individuals. Unfortunately, it is impossible to tighten this skin with exercise or diet alone. This is where comprehensive surgical approaches that treat the body as a whole come into play.
What is a Combined Thigh and Tummy Tuck (Body Lift)?
Combined thigh and tummy tuck surgery, also known as a “body lift,” is a comprehensive procedure in which the abdomen (abdominoplasty) and the upper thighs (thigh lift) are contoured in the same surgical session. Our goal is not only to remove excess skin but also to tighten the muscles in the lower abdomen and leg area, giving the body a natural and youthful contour.
The biggest advantage of choosing this surgery is that our patients can achieve their goals with a single anesthesia, a single hospital stay, and a single recovery period, instead of undergoing two separate surgeries and two separate recovery processes.
Who is the Ideal Candidate?
As with any aesthetic procedure, ideal candidates for this surgery meet specific criteria:
- Patients After Massive Weight Loss: Especially individuals who have lost 40-50 kg or more after bariatric (obesity) surgery and whose weight has become stable.
- Healthy Individuals: People in good general health who do not have a high risk for surgery and do not smoke.
- Those with Realistic Expectations: Patients who understand that the surgery is not a miracle but a solution that significantly resolves the existing problem.
- Individuals Experiencing Sagging: Those with significant sagging, stretch marks, and skin folds in the abdomen and thigh areas.
During our detailed pre-operative consultation, we will decide on the right path for you together.
Pre-operative Preparation: We Plan Our Journey Together
The first step to success is meticulous planning. Once we decide on the surgery:
- Comprehensive Examination: We evaluate your general health, perform blood tests, and use necessary imaging methods.
- 3D Body Imaging: We simulate your potential post-operative appearance together and clarify your expectations.
- Personalized Surgical Plan: We determine the specific incision lines for your body structure. Our main principle is to hide the scars in the most discreet places possible (along the underwear line).
- Lifestyle Adjustments: We inform you about quitting smoking, nutritional recommendations, and the entire preparation process.
The Surgical Technique: Where Art and Science Meet
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a fully equipped hospital. During this procedure, which lasts an average of 4-6 hours:
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): An incision is made from hip to hip, above the pubic area. The abdominal skin is lifted. If there is a separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), they are sutured and strengthened. The belly button is repositioned, and the excess skin is removed before the remaining skin is tightened and sutured.
- Thigh Lift (Thighplasty): An incision is typically made starting from the groin area and extending towards the back of the buttocks. The sagging skin on the inner and front part of the thigh is removed. The tissues inside the leg are tightened to give the thighs a more toned appearance.
When these two procedures are combined, a harmonious and natural lifting effect is created in the lower body.
The Recovery Process: Beauty Comes with Patience
You will be kept under observation in the hospital for the first 1-2 days after the surgery. Drains may be placed, and you will be asked to wear a special compression garment.
- First Week: Rest is very important. Light walking is possible, but heavy lifting should be avoided. Swelling and bruising are normal.
- First Month: The compression garment should be worn regularly. Returning to work is usually possible after 2-3 weeks.
- 3-6 Months: Swelling largely subsides, and scars slowly begin to mature. The results become clearer.
- 1 Year: The final, excellent result is achieved. The scars fade significantly.
Remember, this process is unique to each individual, and I will be with you every step of the way, in close communication.
More Than Just a Surgery, a Life Renewal
Combined thigh and tummy tuck surgery is not just a physical transformation; it is a journey towards becoming a more confident, more active, and happier individual who is more closely connected to life. Getting rid of the sagging skin that serves as a reminder of your old weight and achieving the body you deserve is my greatest source of happiness.
If you also want to be a part of this transformation story, I would be happy to answer all your questions during a friendly consultation at my clinic.
Stay healthy and beautiful.
Dr. Ahmet Kaplan
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where will the scars from the surgery be located? Can they be hidden?
A: Absolutely. Our goal is to hide the scars in the most natural folds. The tummy tuck scar remains in the groin area, along the underwear line. The thigh lift scar extends from the groin to the back fold of the buttocks, also on a line covered by underwear or a swimsuit. Over time, these scars will significantly fade.
Q: What happens if I gain weight again after the surgery?
A: This surgery is not a weight-loss method. It is very important to maintain your ideal weight. Significant weight gain can spoil the results and cause new sagging. Therefore, weight stabilization before the surgery is a must.
Q: Are emotional changes common after surgery?
A: The physical limitations and temporary swelling during the recovery period can cause emotional fluctuations in some patients. This is completely normal. The important thing is to know that this process is temporary and to patiently wait for your final result. We also provide psychological support to you during this process.
Q: When can I return to sports?
A: You can start with light walks even on the day after the surgery. However, you can gradually return to strenuous activities like heavy cardio, running, or weightlifting after 6-8 weeks, once I have given you my approval during your check-ups.
Q: Are the results permanent?
A: Yes, the removed skin is gone permanently. However, the natural aging process and the effect of gravity will continue. By maintaining a healthy weight, protecting yourself from the sun, and living a healthy lifestyle, you can preserve these wonderful results for a lifetime.
