Thigh Lift Procedure

What You Should Know

A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that reshapes and contours the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. It is commonly performed on individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or skin laxity due to aging. The procedure results in smoother skin and better-proportioned thighs, enhancing both appearance and comfort. A thigh lift can target the inner, outer, or entire thigh area depending on the patient’s goals.

What is a Thigh Lift?

A Thigh Lift, or Thighplasty, is a procedure to re-contour the body by removing excess skin and fat on the inner or outer thighs that creates a smoother, firmer, and more sculpted look. It’s particularly great after major weight loss or if the natural effects of aging have caused skin laxity on the thigh.

Who Makes a Good Thigh Lift Candidate?

  • You have excess, loose skin on your thighs
  • Your skin does not tighten with exercise or weight loss
  • You are near or at your ideal weight
  • You are healthy and do not smoke
  • You are self-conscious about chafing, discomfort, or trouble wearing certain types of clothing because of thigh skin laxity
  • You have realistic expectations and are ready for a procedure with visible, but discreet, scars

What Types of Thigh Lifts Are There?

There are several techniques, depending on your needs:

  • Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift: Focuses on the inside of the thighs
  • Outer Thigh Lift: Targets the outer thigh and may involve lifting the hip area
  • Vertical Thigh Lift: For significant excess skin, with a vertical incision down the thigh
  • Mini Thigh Lift: For minor skin laxity, with a shorter incision closer to the groin

Your surgeon will assist in deciding on the most suitable method for your objectives.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

  • Performed under general anesthesia
  • Takes 2–4 hours, depending on the degree
  • Involves strategic cuts (usually along the groin crease or inner thigh)
  • Excess skin and fat are removed, and supporting tissues are tightened
  • May involve liposuction for improved contour
  • Sutures close the incisions; drains can be placed temporarily

What Will My Scars Look Like?

Scars depend on the method used:

  • A mini thigh lift has a scar concealed in the groin crease
  • A conventional inner thigh lift produces a scar on the inside of the thigh
  • A vertical lift produces a more noticeable scar from groin to knee

Although scarring is permanent, it is usually fair and fades with time and can be covered by clothing. Most patients believe the trade-off is worthwhile for the improved shape and comfort.

How Is Recovery?

  • 1–2 weeks off work for recovery and healing
  • Swelling and bruising are normal for many weeks
  • Compression clothing minimizes swelling and supports the new shape
  • Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks
  • Resume light activities and walking in a few days
  • Full results are seen within 2–3 months as swelling decreases

Is a Thigh Lift Painful?

There is some tightness, swelling, and soreness expected after surgery. Pain is generally mild to moderate and well-controlled with medication. Most patients find it uncomfortable, not painful.

Are Results Permanent?

Yes — thigh lift results are permanent, provided you:

  • Keep your weight stable
  • Avoid extreme weight gain or loss
  • Maintain an active lifestyle and healthy living

Natural aging will still occur, but the contour and skin tone improvements remain visible.

What Are the Risks?

As with any surgery, potential complications include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Wound healing difficulties
  • Asymmetry or contour abnormalities
  • Scarring
  • Numbness or alteration of sensation

Selecting an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon greatly reduces these risks.

Can a Thigh Lift Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes. Thigh lift is frequently included in post-weight-loss body contouring and can safely be combined with:

  • Tummy tuck
  • Arm lift
  • Breast lift
  • Liposuction

Your surgeon will advise you on what’s safe to combine based on your health and goals.

Comfortable, Confident, Contoured

If excess, sagging thigh skin is holding you back from feeling confident — or just getting in the way of clothes and mobility — a Thigh Lift could be the answer. With proper planning and aftercare, you can have slimmer legs, smoother skin, and a freedom you never thought possible.

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