BACKGROUND: Patients showing massive weight loss eventually develop excessive skin and fat in several body parts, including the lower extremities. Given the diversity of the localization, shape, and content of coxofemoral dysmorphia, this study proposes guidelines for planning and systematizing the treatment of each deformity. METHODS: Twenty-eight female patients who underwent thigh lifts and showed 3 types of deformities were assessed. The deformities encompassed the upper third of the thigh alone, the upper and middle thirds, or the entire medial aspect of the thighs. A specific technique was used for treating each type of deformity. Moreover, when necessary, suspension of the lateral thigh was combined with liposuction. Patient satisfaction with the surgical results was assessed by a graded questionnaire. Unexpected events, complications, and treatments were recorded. RESULTS: Mobility, hygiene, sexual performance, use of clothing, and scars were assessed as excellent (80.5%), good (14.5%), and regular (5%). CONCLUSIONS: Considering the broad heterogeneity of thigh dysmorphia in formerly obese patients, therapeutic guidelines correlating each type of deformity with a specific treatment are necessary.
Bariatric surgery; Weight loss; Plastic surgery; Thigh
