I'm 8 days post lower body lift. Is it normal for my upper thigh to be numb? (Photo)

Question

It's more numb on the side where there's a tiny infection. Is the numbness from the infection or is it a sign that the infection might be deeper than we think? Just got out on 2 new oral antibiotics. Just nervous.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your questions regarding upper thigh numbness eight days after a lower body lift. Typically, you should not have numbness on your upper thigh after a body lift. Occasionally, there may be some numbness around the incision, but numbness of the upper thigh is not common after a lower body lift. It is important that you consult with your plastic surgeon regarding this numbness. The numbness has nothing to do with any infection or the antibiotics that you are taking. This thigh/leg is a completely separate issue. Your pictures are appropriate for the surgery that you had. It is very important that you follow up with your plastic surgeon regarding these two separate issues, namely numbness and the infection. I hope this answers your questions regarding upper thigh numbness after a lower body lift. If you have any more questions regarding lower body lifts or plastic surgery, please contact my office.
Thanks!
Dr. Katzen

Christian A. Prada, MD, FACS · Answer

It is pretty common to have temporary numbness to the anterior thigh. The nerve to this portion of your thigh can be compressed with either a suture or secondary swelling to the area, causing this numbness.  This typically passes.  Infection does not cause this. Its possible you have some fat necrosis under the skin that would benefit from antibiotics and possible opening of the wound by your surgeon.

Nagi T. Ayoub, MD, FACS · Answer

It is completely NORMAL for there to be some numbness around the surgical area immediately after the surgery.   This can last for several months up to a year even.  If you have major concerns about incisions of the remaining numbness, is always best to speak to your plastic surgeon that performed your surgery.  If you are having any other signs or symptoms of infection such as fever, night sweats, chills and drainage, you should contact your plastic surgeon.  Congrats on your surgery!

Michael Baumholtz, MD, FACS · Answer

8 days out from a major surgery like a body lift and some areas of redness and numbness are COMPLETELY normal.
Garments and wraps can occasionally worsen this numbness but this early in the post operative period - you really should call your surgeon and discuss these important questions!

Good luck and best wishes

Hasan Ali, MBBS, MRCS, MS · Answer

Body lift surgery is a complex procedure with prolonged healing and recovery. 
Numbness can be temporary and very common after these procedures. An initial examination is required before labeling it as having any local wound infection. 
Please talk to your PS with regards to your concerns.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

I would see your PS and be reviewed in person. Numbness is not uncommon and should resolve as the swelling settles. This can take a number of months.

Michael J. Yoo, MD · Answer

Its not uncommon for there to be some numbness around the surgical area immediately after the surgery.  This can last for several mos to a year.  Best to speak to your plastic surgeon about your concerns.  More concerning is the potential 'infection' you speak of - this should be seen and addressed by your plastic surgeon.  Best wishes.

Larry Lickstein, MD · Answer

Some of the nerves responsible for sensation to the upper thigh travel through the operative field of a body lift.  Consequently, they can be affected by surgery - traction from retractors, injections of anesthetic, liposuction, and the dissection - all can affect nerve function.  An injured nerve should be able to heal, so long as it has not been transected, which would be very unlikely.  Sensation will likely slowly return over the next several months.  Note that it is more likely that your numbness is attributable to the surgical procedure than to the infection.  Make certain though that you have regular follow up with your surgeon to make certain that you are responding to treatment for your infection, and to optimize your care to ensure an easy recovery.

Carmen C. Munteanu, MD, FRACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello and than you for the question.
I am sorry to hear that you are concerned.
It looks like you have a localised inflammation with infection, probably related to drains.
Oral antibiotics and drain removal would help.
Talk to your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who would be able to help.
Numbness is quite common in the early stages after surgery and it's usually transient in nature, it might take weeks to resolve.
Tale care!

I'm 8 days post lower body lift. Is it normal for my upper thigh to be numb? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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