If you’ve been considering body contouring procedures like an arm lift or a thigh lift, one of the first questions on your mind might be: How safe are these procedures? At Peak Plastic Surgery Center, this is one of the most common questions we hear from patients. While the answer involves several factors, the overall safety of these procedures is very high when performed under the right conditions. Let’s break it down.
What Does “Safety” Mean for Surgery?
When evaluating the safety of an arm lift or thigh lift, several considerations come into play. The most important factors include:
- Overall Health: Are you medically stable? Do you have any underlying medical conditions that could impact your healing or the procedure itself?
- Nutritional Optimization: Are you nutritionally prepared for surgery and the recovery to follow? This is an important factor that will be discussed during your consultation.
- Surgical Risks: Are the risks of the procedure manageable? For arm lifts and thigh lifts, the risks are relatively minimal compared to other major surgeries.
What Are the Potential Risks?
Like any surgical procedure, arm lifts and thigh lifts carry potential risks. One of the most common concerns is damage to neurovascular structures near the surgical site.
- For Arm Lifts: There is a small nerve that runs from the armpit to the inside of forearm, providing sensation. If this nerve is affected during surgery, patients may experience tingling or numbness. While this is uncommon, it can occur with a full arm lift but is less of a concern with procedures like liposuction.
- For Thigh Lifts: The thighs contain numerous nerves and blood vessels. However, by staying in the correct surgical plane, the procedure is highly safe and carries minimal risk of complications.
The Most Common Complication: Incision Healing
The primary complication associated with both arm lifts and thigh lifts is incision healing. According to recent studies, there may be up to a 25% chance that the incision may open up somewhere during the healing process. However, the vast majority of these cases can be treated with local wound care. This typically involves:
- Topical antibiotic ointments
- Wet gauze dressings
Most incision issues heal on their own within a few weeks without further intervention.
Why Patient-Specific Factors Matter
The number one determinant of safety in arm and thigh lifts is the patient themselves. A thorough medical evaluation is critical to ensure you are an appropriate candidate for surgery. During your consultation, we’ll discuss:
- Your medical history
- Your goals and what you hope to achieve
- The surgical interventions that best suit your needs
This customized approach ensures the procedure is tailored to your body and your health, maximizing safety and results.
How Do These Procedures Compare to Other Cosmetic Plastic Surgeries?
In terms of overall complication risk, arm lifts and thigh lifts are among the safest cosmetic surgeries. While every surgery carries some degree of risk, these procedures are well-established and have a strong safety profile when performed by a qualified surgeon.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
During your consultation at Peak Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. Eric Barker will go over your full medical history and discuss your expectations. This is also the time to review the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and informed about every step of the process.
The Bottom Line: Are Arm Lifts and Thigh Lifts Safe?
The short answer is yes—arm lifts and thigh lifts are very safe procedures when performed by an experienced surgeon. The key to safety lies in:
- A thorough pre-surgical evaluation
- A clear understanding of your goals
- A customized surgical plan
If you’re considering an arm lift or thigh lift and have more questions, we’re always here to help. Contact Peak Plastic Surgery Center to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward achieving your body contouring goals.