Medial thigh lift using periosteal pelvic anchoring in 50 consecutive postgastric bypass patients

Abstract

Purpose: Due to the dramatic increase in bariatric surgeries being performed, there has also been an increase in elective medial thighs lifts after weight loss. One of the major disadvantages of the traditional medial thigh lift has been the resulting large, visible scar that usually migrates inferio-medially and becomes exposed in the visible areas of the medial thigh. Methods: Fifty postbariatric surgery patients requesting medial thigh reconstruction were selected. All patients refused a longitudinal medial thigh incision. These consecutive 50 patients underwent bilateral medial thigh lift through an incision placed from the medial infragluteal fold to the femoral triangle. A crescent area of skin and fat was removed. Then, the superficial fascial system was anchored with permanent suture to the periosteum of the medial pelvis. The incision was closed in multiple layers without drains. These consecutive patients were followed over 5 years. Results: All patients had significant improvement in medial thigh hygiene, contour, and appearance. All patients were pleased that they had undergone bilateral medial thigh lift. There were two wound dehiscences which healed with conservative wound management. To date, there have been no inferiomedial scar migrations. Most incisions are well hidden with undergarments. Conclusions: Periosteal pelvic anchoring provides a solid and permanent platform to support the medial thigh lift. Patients are satisfied with the placement of the incision and improved appearance of medial thighs. The medial thigh lift with crescent skin and fat excision with periosteal pelvic anchoring allows for satisfactory cosmetic results with minimal risk of scar migration. PII: S1550-7289(05)00263-7