It's not unusual for massive weight loss patients to develop loose thigh skin. When this situation arises, thigh lift surgery is frequently indicated. This procedure often involves excision of skin in both the transverse and vertical dimensions. The procedure places an incision in the groin crease which is extended along the inner thigh towards the knee.Unfortunately, these procedures are frequently associated with wound breakdown and spread of scars, especially in the groin area. Wound breakdown occurs for a variety of reasons, but the most significant factor is probably tension on the wound closure.In an effort to minimize tension, deep non-absorbable sutures are placed to decrease tension on the closure. It's important to understand that these are permanent sutures that don't resorb. When these sutures are used, it takes approximately six to eight weeks for the wound to gain most of it's pre-operative strength.The superficial closure is performed with absorbable sutures. These sutures typically resorb in two to three months. It's not unusual for these sutures to work their way to the surface of the wound and cause areas of breakdown. When this happens, local wound care is appropriate. Most of these wounds heal nicely and don't require scar revision. Rarely, adverse scarring occurs. Under these circumstances, simple scar revision usually provides adequate correction.If you're concerned about wound healing following thigh lift surgery, consultation with your plastic surgeon is appropriate. Your surgeon should be able to address your concerns and alleviate your anxiety.The superficial closure is performed with absorbable sutures. These sutures typically resorb in two to three months. It's not unusual for these sutures to work their way to the surface of the wound and cause areas of breakdown. When this happens, local wound care is appropriate. Most of these wounds heal nicely and don't require scar revision. Rarely adverse scarring occurs.