How can I quickly heal this open incision at the top of my thigh? 2 weeks post-op.

Question

I am being closely monitored by my amazing surgeon, but I would appreciate some additional advice on what I should be doing in terms of movement to help this close faster. My surgeon says to do whatever I feel comfortable with pain wise but I am now 2 weeks post op so pain is minimal and I am aware getting on and off of chairs is pulling at the incision. The current protocol is shower twice a day using an anti microbial wash, covering the open area with Vaseline and covering with sterile swab.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding how to help an open incision at the top of your thigh heal more quickly two weeks after a thigh lift. I'm glad to hear you're under the care of a supportive and attentive surgeon. Open incisions at this stage are not unusual, especially in high-tension areas like the groin where movement and friction are unavoidable. The good news is, with proper care, these typically heal very well over time.

The current plan your surgeon has you on—showering twice daily with antimicrobial soap, applying Vaseline, and covering with a sterile swab—is excellent. This helps keep the wound clean and moist, which are ideal conditions for healing. As far as movement goes, you're right to be cautious. While you want to avoid complete inactivity, try to limit the amount of pulling or stretching across the incision when sitting down, getting up, or climbing stairs. Slow, deliberate movements can reduce unnecessary tension on the wound. Supporting yourself with your hands and lowering yourself gently into chairs or beds can make a big difference. Wearing compression garments as recommended can also help minimize swelling and tension on the incision.

While it may be tempting to try to "speed up" healing, your body works best when healing progresses steadily and without extra stress. Avoid smoking, hydrate well, and consider adding supplements like Vitamin C and Zinc if approved by your surgeon. Be patient with your recovery—many incisions in this area heal from the inside out (secondary intention) and gradually close over several weeks.

I hope I’ve answered your question about promoting healing for your open thigh incision. If you have further questions about thighplasty, vertical thigh lifts, wound care, or scar prevention, please consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. Choose someone who has performed at least 150 thigh lifts, can show thorough before-and-after images, and has strong reviews from post-weight loss patients like yourself.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen
(President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The best thing to do at this point in your recovery is follow your surgeon's instructions exactly.  Continue to update your surgeon on the healing of your incision.  Also, if you are a smoker or use any nicotine, stop now as it inhibits wound healing.  Hope this helps!

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

First off, congratulations on your thigh lift, sasharo0o!
To be honest, there  really isn’t anything you can do to hasten your healing process. You just need to follow your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon’s instructions on wound care to keep it clean and free from infection.
As for movement, there will always be tension in your thigh lift sutures. Just be careful every time you change positions. It will eventually heal in about a month.
Best of luck!

How can I quickly heal this open incision at the top of my thigh? 2 weeks post-op.

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How can I quickly heal this open incision at the top of my thigh? 2 weeks post-op.

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Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.