How common is it to experience Meralgia paresthetica after a Lower Body Lift?

Question

How common is it to experience Meralgia paresthetica after a LBL? (5-2019) I've had nerve issues since around 6-7 months post op. The burning has turned to complete numbness. I have chronic inflammation& pain from my pirformis/si joint through groin & thigh. Im told no surgeon will help fix my medial thighs until the nerve issues are resolved. I waited over a yr for a nuero to help me. I still cant lay on my stomach & right side & my legs rub & look worse. Still no help... I need my life back.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding meralgia paresthetica after a 360 circumferential lower body lift combined with a medial thigh lift. First, I'm sorry you have these symptoms. Second, these symptoms and the meralgia paresthetica condition are exceedingly rare after a 360 body lift and longitudinal medial thigh lift. The symptoms you are experiencing could be due to several factors. It is probably the compression of the nerve as it traverses the surgical field. Alternatively, the nerve may have been severed though this is very doubtful. Either way, whatever the condition is, the treatment should be geared towards minimizing your symptoms. It is essential that you find a good neurologist and possibly a pain management doctor. Treatments include deep tissue massage, lymphatic massage, acupuncture, electrical stimulation, and possibly even nerve blocks. These should be discussed with a specialist in the field of pain management. Once your pain is better, and your meralgia paresthetica condition has resolved or diminished, only then should you consider elective plastic surgery. Thank you for your question, and I hope you get better from your meralgia paresthetica.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. ("Verified" Plastic Surgeon, 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, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

First, I am very sorry you have had a difficult recovery. Injury of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve during body contouring is relatively uncommon. I am always very careful to protect the region in which the nerve is located to protect it during body contouring procedures. Anatomic positioning of the LFCN varies from person to person which is why it is susceptible to injury. Management begins with conservative measures, which appear to have failed in your case. An ultrasound identifying the position and shape of the nerve can be helpful in determining if the nerve is entrapped or compressed. Unfortunately, the literature guiding recommendations is weak so deciding what intervention (if any) is most appropriate really comes down to personalized treatment strategies as discussed with your doctor. Surgery can help under the right circumstances, but it not very reliable.

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

Meralgia paresthetica is a condition where there is tingling, numbness, or burning pain in the outer thigh due to compression or irritation of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. It can be associated with various surgical procedures, including lower body lifts. The prevalence of meralgia paresthetica after a lower body lift can vary, and it depends on several factors, including the individual’s anatomy, the surgical technique used, and the surgeon’s skill.It’s essential to discuss the potential risks and complications of any surgical procedure with your surgeon before undergoing it, including the risk of developing meralgia paresthetica. Your surgeon can provide you with more specific information based on your situation and the surgical approach they plan to use.

How common is it to experience Meralgia paresthetica after a Lower Body Lift?

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How common is it to experience Meralgia paresthetica after a Lower Body Lift?

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