Thigh Lift

A thigh lift is performed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper legs.  The result is smoother skin and better proportioned contours of the thighs.  Patients considering a thigh lift often suffer from loose and inelastic skin as a result of extreme weight loss due to diet or bariatric surgery.  This procedure is often performed in conjunction with a breast lift, facelift, and/or an arm lift.

A thigh lift corrects loose or sagging skin on the thigh that cannot be corrected by proper diet or exercise.  Where exercise my fall short, a thigh lift helps to achieve a firmer, more youthful-looking and more proportional thigh appearance.

Thigh Lift Procedure

There are two common types of thigh lift procedures designed to treat different areas of the thigh which include different incision locations.  The two thigh lifts include a medial thigh lift (inner thigh lift) and a lateral thigh lift (outer thigh lift).

  • Medial (Inner) Thigh Lift:  The incision is made along the line where the leg meets the groin.
  • Lateral (Outer) Thigh Lift:  An incision is made from the groin around the back of the body, allowing the buttocks to be lifted along with the thigh.

The size of incisions will vary depending on the amount of correction needed.  In most cases, the incision can be made in inconspicuous areas of the body that can be concealed by most types of clothing and swimsuits.  If a large amount of correction is necessary, the incision may need to be extensive resulting in more visible scarring.

Once the incision is made, the underlying tissue is reshaped and tightened to create a smoother overall thigh contour.  The skin is then re-draped over the thigh and excess skin is removed and incision is closed.

Thigh Lift Results

The smoother and firm thigh contour is almost immediately apparent following a thigh lift.  As inflammation and bruising subside, the results will improve over time.  The result will be a firm and more youthful thigh contour and in many cases can correct cellulite and dimples.  Incisions are typically made in inconspicuous areas to reduce visible scarring, and the scarring will fade as the incision heals.  Scarring can typically be covered by bikinis.