Thigh Lift Post-Procedure Instructions 

Activity 

• It is very important to begin walking with assistance today, DO NOT remain in bed. 

• While in bed, move your feet by pointing your toes up and down to promote blood flow. 

• No driving until 24 hours after your last narcotic pain medication dose. 

• Keep your legs elevated with your thighs above the level of your hear when lying down for at least the first 2 weeks. Elevate your legs while sitting to reduce swelling 

• Do not strain or do anything which requires significant effort. Gradually increase your activities to your comfort level. 

• In general, you will need about 2 weeks off from work. Plan to avoid travel and heavy lifting/ heavy exercise for 4-6 weeks after surgery. 

Home Care 

• Cough and deep breathe every hour while awake for 2 days. For mild fever (less than 100°F), increase frequency of coughing or deep breathing. 

• Wear the compression dressings at all times (unless showering or washing it) for at least 2 weeks. This will help minimize swelling and fluid collections 

• You may shower 48 hours after surgery. Do not go in any hot tubs, baths, or pools. 

• If you have steri-strips (white tape) on the incision keep them in place until you see your doctor. They may fall off on their own and that is OK. 

• Reinforce dressings as needed with gauze or pads. 

• DO NOT smoke (including second-hand smoke) or use nicotine products of any kind for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery. 

• Please plan to have a responsible adult with you for at least 24 hours following surgery. 

• The drainage tubes will remain in place until your follow up visit. Please bring the drain record to each of your follow-up appointments. Typically, drainage tubes will be removed when drain output is 30cc or less per 24 hours. If drain output is higher, one or both tubes will be left in place until drainage decreases. 

• If you were given an antibiotic, please take this as prescribed. 

What to Expect 

• Moderate discomfort and swelling. Bruising and swelling can occur up to 48 hours post-op and may take several weeks (bruising) or months (swelling) to resolve 

• The pain medication will help with the pain but you may still feel pressure and tightness. 

• Spots of drainage on dressings. Drainage may temporarily increase with activity. 

• If you have a drain, refer to separate drain instruction sheet. 

• The scars will improve in color and size from 3 months up to 2 years after your surgery. 

• Numbness, tingling, and sensitivity to physical contact may persist for several weeks or longer. 

• The near-final result is typically apparent 3-6 months after surgery. 

Medication & Comfort 

• You should take the scheduled tylenol, gabapentin, and celecoxib for pain relief as prescribed. Breakthrough pain with the opiate medications. 

• Pain medications may cause drowsiness, upset stomach, and constipation. 

• Take pain medications with food. 

• Do not drink alcohol or drive while taking prescribed pain medication. 

• Refills are only available during office hours – 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. If you feel you need more pain medication, please call during those times. 

Call the nurse line (806 810 5828) if you notice: 

• More swelling on one side than the other. 

• Large spots of drainage that soak through the bandages. 

• Severe pain not responding to medication. 

• Fever greater than 101°F 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Signs of infection: If you notice foul-smelling drainage, redness, excessive swelling and pain in the treated areas, please notify us immediately. 

• Final Results: Expect the best results 6-12 months AFTER the surgery. 

If you have an issue after hours, contact Dr. Boonipat directly at 603 731 6888 

I have read and understand ALL the above instructions. I understand that the following instructions are solely my responsibility for a better post-surgical recovery. I understand that it is my responsibility to ask the surgeon about any questions or concerns related to my procedure, health, and healing process.