Post-op numbness -- will I ever regain normal sensations, or is this normal?

Numbness after a body lift is normal and it can take a long time to recover.  Occasionally people have areas of permanent numbness or irritation but this is not common

Dear Miranda01 in Fort Payne,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about postoperative numbness one year following your lower body lift, particularly regarding the numbness in your left thigh and unusual sensations along your incision line.
Numbness in the Left Thigh:
Numbness in this area can occur after a lower body lift due to the impact on a nerve that provides sensation to the outer thigh.
The tenderness you're experiencing in the thigh may be a positive sign, indicating potential nerve recovery.
Sensation Along the Incision:
It's common to experience strange sensations along the incision site after major surgery like a lower body lift. This happens as the nerves adjust to the changes from tissue separation and re-approximation.
Stimulating Nerve Recovery:
To aid in regaining normal sensation, consider exploring deep tissue massage, vibration therapy, acupuncture, and physical therapy. These modalities can be effective in stimulating nerve function and promoting healing.
It's encouraging to note that in most cases, such as yours, these sensory issues tend to resolve over time. However, it's important to stay in touch with your surgeon or healthcare provider and keep them informed of your progress and any concerns.
I hope this information brings some clarity and reassurance regarding your postoperative numbness. If you haven't already, discussing these options with a healthcare professional who understands your medical history can provide more personalized guidance.
Wishing you continued recovery and the best of luck.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Thank you for your question, it is normal for the patient to lose sensitivity after a body lift, it is possible that you may regain normal sensations periodically, although in some cases patients take longer than others to regain them or they do not feel the same way as before.

You may have lost sensation secondary to positioning on the table or from injury to one of the sensory branches of the leg.  This will likely not improve at this point.  Sometimes the pain associated with out can be treated by resection or release of the nerve that may be injured.