Thigh Lift

Patients with massive weight loss and with normal aging can have loose skin in the inner thigh that is not improved with exercise and diet. A thigh lift removes excess skin and lifts the remaining skin to create smooth inner leg contours and a more attractive upper leg. Liposuction may also be used at the same time to reduce the volume of fat in the inner thigh.

It’s extremely important that you fill out your paperwork correctly regarding any medications or supplements you take as they might interfere with the smoothness and safety of your surgery. Also, if you’re a smoker, you should stop smoking at least 15 days prior to your procedure.

Thigh lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia. You will need to have someone drive you home following your procedure. It takes around 2 hours to perform an inner thigh lift. During the procedure, an incision is made in the groin crease extending back toward the crease in the buttocks. The incision can also be made vertically from the perineum to the knees if there is extra skin which needs to be removed. A wedge of excess skin is removed and the incision and scar are hidden in the groin. The remaining skin is lifted, and the incision is tightly sutured closed in order to give the thigh area a sleeker and more defined appearance.

Inner (medial) thigh lift – Here, excess fat, skin, and tissue are removed from the inner thigh area. The inner thigh skin is also tightened during the procedure to combat age-related ptosis. An incision is made, reaching from the groin backward towards the buttocks. Outer (bilateral) thigh lift – During this procedure, the outer thighs are slimmed and reshaped. The incision is made within the groin area, extending towards the hips and lower back. A bilateral thigh lift is often performed for clients after massive weight loss to excise large amounts of excess sagging skin.

Swelling and bruising are to be expected but will dissipate over time. Any pain or discomfort can be managed with medication. It can take several months before you start to see the full results of your thigh lift. Drains may be placed during surgery to collect fluid. Because of friction with walking and other activities and moisture in this area, healing in the inner thigh can take extra time. It is not uncommon for stitches to separate and have to be redone.

While some changes will be immediately apparent, most patients see a noticeable improvement in six weeks. The results of a thigh lift can continue to improve for up to 12 months after surgery.