Overview
A thigh lift, also known as a thighplasty, treats loose skin around the thighs, hips, and buttocks by removing excess skin from the inner and outer thighs. Aging, pregnancy, significant fluctuations in weight, and genetic factors may contribute to poor tissue elasticity and can result in inner or outer thighs that sag. During the surgery, the sagging skin has been removed, the underlying tissue will be reshaped and tightened, and then the skin will be reduced and redraped. At The Lubbock Plastic Surgery Institute, Dr. Schmid and Dr. Mooty use advanced techniques that allow incisions to be placed in strategic locations where they can be hidden by most types of clothing and swimsuits. The best candidates will be in good health and be at or near a healthy, stable weight. During the consultation at their office in Lubbock or Midland, Dr. Schmid or Dr. Mooty will discuss possible options, including what other body contouring surgeries may be added for their best results, such as liposuction or a butt lift.
Reviews
Surgical Technique
A thigh lift is performed to address the inner thighs and/or outer thighs (lateral thigh lift). During an inner thigh lift, an incision is made near the top of the thigh (along the crease where the torso meets the leg) and runs down the inner aspect of the thigh. Once the incision is made, a large section of tissue is removed from the top inner thigh area, and any excess skin will be excised away. Liposuction may be used to sculpt the area into a more desirable contour. The soft tissue structures and muscle are pulled tight and secured to result in a more toned and smooth skin surface.
Combination Procedures
A thigh lift can often be combined with another body contouring procedure, especially if it involves another area of the lower body. A common combination surgery for patients is a thigh lift and butt lift. Patients who require an outer thigh lift will generally need to have the buttocks addressed as well. During this approach, the outer thighs are pulled up and tightened, then secured with sutures along the crease at the bottom of the buttocks. In addition to a tighter appearance, most patients see a drastic improvement in skin irregularities, such as dimples from cellulite.
During/After Surgery
All thigh lift surgeries are performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility as an outpatient procedure. They typically take around 2-3 hours to complete. However, it could take longer if it is combined with another procedure. Recovery will vary, but typically takes 6-8 weeks. Scarring will be a part of this procedure. With proper scar care they should heal nicely and fade over time. Patients will see a marked improvement in the contour of their thighs, as well as a smoother, firmer skin tone.
Thigh Lift FAQs
Cure for Cellulite Dimples?
A thigh lift improves the appearance of the skin on the thighs. Because the skin is pulled and tightened, a smoother, more toned look will result. Some patients find that this alone makes the surgery worth it. While the surgery doesn’t remove every imperfection, the improvement can be very dramatic for many patients.
Post-Surgery Exercise?
Some patients fear that they will not be able to perform certain exercises (such as a lunge) after a thigh lift. This is false. Patients will need to make certain they are fully healed and gain approval from their surgeon before performing lower body exercises. Once healed, exercise will only help optimize the surgical outcome.
Long-Lasting Results?
The results of a thigh lift can be very long lasting. However, any additional weight gain could compromise some of the aesthetic results gained of the surgery. Over time, age and gravity will cause some of the natural laxity within the thighs to decrease, but most of the improvement will be permanent.