Thigh Lift
Also known as thighplasty
A thigh lift is a procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from either the inner or outer thighs. This is often desirable after substantial or bariatric weight loss or in individuals for whom dieting and exercise have failed to reduce excess tissue in their upper thighs. Liposuction may be used as an adjunct to the recontouring of the inner thigh. If you are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a moderate weight, a thigh lift can help you regain the youthful thigh contours you desire.
When to Consider a Thigh Lift
- If you want your thighs to have a better, more proportional contour and a firmer look and feel.
- If you have undergone bariatric surgery or massive weight loss.
- If you are distressed about loose, flabby skin on your thighs.
- If you have difficulty fitting into clothing because of heavy thighs.
Considerations
Pros
- Clothing and swimwear will fit better.
- Your body will appear more shapely and proportional.
- Your thighs will be firmer and more youthful, with a curvaceous appearance.
Cons
- There may be visible or poor scarring.
- Where fat has been removed by liposuction, the skin may appear deflated.
- A secondary procedure may be required to correct any unevenness or bumps.
These are the top three pros and cons to weigh when considering a thigh lift. If you want to focus on what is unique to you, please consult with your aesthetic plastic surgeon.
Are you a good candidate for a thigh lift?
The following are some common reasons why you may want to consider a thigh lift:
- The effects of aging have led to sagging, cellulite and loose skin on your thighs.
- You have succeeded in a weight reduction program and you now desire shapely thighs that reflect your more proportional, toned figure.
- Clothes do not fit properly because of your heavy thighs.
- Your thighs make you feel self-conscious and you want to restore your self-assurance regarding your body.
If you are in good general health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.
Detailed Procedural Info
How is a thigh lift procedure performed?
Medial (inner) thigh lift: An incision is made in the groin area, and any excess fat and skin are excised along the inner aspect of the thigh. Liposuction may be but is not always included in this procedure, depending on your individual requirements. The area from the groin to the knee is recontoured and the procedure is repeated for the other thigh. If a more substantial wedge of tissue is removed, the procedure is called a thighplasty.
Lateral (outer) thigh lift:This is a more complex procedure, usually involving recontouring of the buttocks as well as the outer thighs and removal of more tissue. Scarring is more extensive, and the skin will be less elastic after the surgery, so weight should be maintained.
Thigh lift addresses sagging skin and extra fat.
What are my options?
There are two different types of thigh lift procedures: medial (inner) thigh lift or lateral (outer) thigh lift. See How is a thigh lift procedure performed? for details.
A physical examination, a thorough medical history and a discussion with your surgeon will help determine whether a medial or lateral thigh lift is most appropriate, or whether you will benefit from a combined lower body lift.
What will my thigh lift incisions and scars be like?
Medial thigh lift: The incisions are made in the groin area. For patients requiring more substantial removal of excess skin, a longitudinal incision may be made along the inner thigh.
Lateral thigh lift: Depending on the requirements of a lateral thigh lift, the incisions will extend from the groin, around the hip, and possibly a buttock fold incision will be included. The surgeon will attempt to place the incisions where the scars can be hidden by clothing, but the incisions will be more extensive than for a medial thigh lift.