Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

Surgical procedure to reshape and contour the thighs

Ideal candidates for a thigh lift are individuals who:

• Have lost a significant amount of weight: After weight loss, excess skin can remain on the thighs, leading to sagging and loss of contour. A thigh lift can address this issue and restore a more toned appearance.
• Have excess skin or fatty tissue: Thigh lifts are particularly beneficial for individuals who have loose, sagging skin on the inner and outer thighs that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise.
• Are in good health: Candidates should be free from any major health conditions that could interfere with healing. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the procedure’s results.
• Have stable weight: As with many other body contouring procedures, it’s ideal for candidates to have reached and maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months before undergoing a thigh lift.

Patients should be committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after the surgery to ensure long-lasting results and prevent future skin laxity or other issues.

Thigh lift surgery can be customized based on the patient’s specific needs. The procedure typically focuses on the inner thighs, outer thighs, or both. There are different techniques, depending on the degree of excess skin and the areas that need attention:

1. Inner Thigh Lift
   An inner thigh lift focuses on the removal of excess skin and fat from the inner thigh area. This procedure is ideal for patients who have lost weight and developed sagging skin on the inner thigh that causes discomfort or an uneven appearance. The incisions are usually made along the groin area, hidden in natural skin folds.
2. Outer Thigh Lift
   An outer thigh lift targets the outer thigh area, where sagging or excess fat may cause a less contoured appearance. The incisions are typically made around the hip or along the outer thigh, depending on the extent of the skin excess.
3. Mini Thigh Lift
   For patients with only a moderate amount of excess skin or fat, a mini thigh lift can be performed. This involves smaller incisions and removes less tissue, but still provides a noticeable improvement in the thigh contour.
4. Extended Thigh Lift
   An extended thigh lift is performed for more extensive skin removal, especially when excess skin extends from the thighs into the buttocks or hips. This procedure involves longer incisions, but it can dramatically improve the overall shape and tone of the entire lower body.

In some cases, thigh lift surgery is combined with liposuction to remove stubborn fat deposits, which further enhances the results.

Thigh lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure generally lasts 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the areas being treated. Here’s an overview of the typical steps involved:

1. Consultation and Planning
   Before the surgery, the patient will have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, medical history, and ideal outcomes. During this time, the surgeon will evaluate the areas of excess skin or fat, take measurements, and outline the procedure plan. Preoperative tests may be done to ensure the patient is in good health for surgery.
2. Incision Placement
   The surgeon will begin the surgery by making incisions in discreet areas. The location and length of the incisions will vary based on the amount of excess skin and the technique used. For inner thigh lifts, the incisions are often placed along the groin, while outer thigh lifts may involve incisions that extend along the hips or thighs.
3. Skin and Fat Removal
   Once the incisions are made, excess skin and fat are carefully removed. The surgeon will tighten the remaining tissue and reposition the skin for a smoother, firmer appearance. If liposuction is used, it will be done at this stage to remove any excess fat.
4. Tightening and Suturing
   After removing the excess skin and fat, the surgeon will reposition the remaining tissue, tightening it for a more youthful and toned appearance. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and drains may be placed temporarily to remove any fluid buildup.

The recovery period after a thigh lift varies from patient to patient, but most people can expect to return to normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks. Here’s an overview of what to expect during the recovery process:

1. Hospital Stay
   Thigh lift surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, but some patients may require an overnight stay in the hospital, depending on the extent of the surgery.
2. Pain Management
   Patients can expect some discomfort following the procedure, particularly in the first few days. Pain is usually manageable with prescribed medications, and any swelling or bruising should gradually subside over time.
3. Compression Garments
   Compression garments may be recommended to help reduce swelling and support the healing tissue. These garments should be worn for several weeks after surgery to help with the recovery process.
4. Activity Restrictions
   During the first few weeks of recovery, patients should avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and vigorous exercise. Light walking is encouraged to help with circulation and to prevent blood clots. Most patients can resume work and light activities after 1 to 2 weeks.
5. Follow-up Appointments
   Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon will be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure there are no complications. Sutures will be removed during the first or second follow-up visit.

As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, although they are rare. These can include:

• Infection: Infection can occur at the incision sites, but it can typically be treated with antibiotics.
• Scarring: All surgical procedures result in scars, but the surgeon will place the incisions in areas that are less noticeable. Scars typically fade over time.
• Seroma or Hematoma: Fluid buildup or blood collection beneath the skin may require drainage.
• Asymmetry: In some cases, the results may not be perfectly symmetrical, and minor touch-ups may be required.
• Delayed Healing: Certain factors like smoking or underlying health conditions can slow the healing process.

The results of thigh lift surgery are typically long-lasting and provide a smoother, firmer appearance to the thighs. The final results can be seen after the swelling and bruising have subsided, typically within 3 to 6 months.

Patients often feel more confident in their appearance, as the surgery provides a more contoured and youthful leg profile. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle after the surgery is key to preserving the results.

If you have excess skin or fat on your thighs that has not responded to diet or exercise, a thigh lift may be the right solution. To find out more, schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring procedures. Together, you can discuss your goals and determine if a thigh lift is the best option to help you achieve your desired look.

In most cases, inner thigh lifts involve incisions from the groin extending down the inner leg, which require care in the healing phase. Although walking is encouraged early on, patients should avoid wide strides or putting tension on the inner thighs during the first two months. Sitting is generally not a problem, but crossing the legs or squatting should be avoided. Compression garments help protect the healing tissue. Sleeping with slightly elevated legs or on your back can help reduce swelling. Full return to exercise and flexibility is typically achieved by the second month.