Body lift with lateral thigh lift: surgical technique and comparison with the inferior body lift

Background: Despite its rarity, cutaneous adipose tissue excess in the trochanteric region following massive weight loss is a surgical challenge. The aim of this work is to propose a surgical technique for lifting the outer thighs by describing its indications and its limitations. Methods: 74 patients were recruited into the study between 2018 2021. Two groups were identified: patients with bodylift combined with lateral thigh lift (n=20) and patients with lower bodylift (n=54). Satisfaction was obtained through the BODY Q questionnaire. The average operating time is 45 minutes longer when an outer thigh lift is performed. The median length of hospitalization is similar. The complication rate is 26% for the bodylift group and 60% for the thigh lift group (p<0.01); the most common complication is dehiscence. Results: Data analysis shows that the lateral thigh lift technique does not affect immediate postoperative evolution or hospitalization duration, proving its safety. There was an increase in total complications among patients who underwent lateral thigh lifts. Dehiscence is the most common complication, which is an outpatient treatment. The satisfaction rate is high. Satisfaction is linked to improved quality of life. Conclusions: In our experience, the technique described is an effective means of trochanteric deformities.