Thigh Lift

Smoother, Slimmer Thighs with a Thigh Lift

Sometimes even the most vigorous fitness regimen and diet are not enough to achieve a slim and toned body. The thighs in particular can be hard to tone as the skin on the inner thighs loses elasticity over time due to genetics, aging, sun exposure and weight fluctuations. As a result, the skin on the thighs can appear saggy, creating an unattractive and sometimes disproportionate body figure.

Thigh lift reshapes the thighs by trimming excess, loose skin and fat, creating smoother and better-proportioned body contours. Following thigh lift, patients feel more confident when wearing shorts, and everyday activities such as walking and exercise become easier and more enjoyable once chafing and skin rashes are eliminated.

Patients who are embarrassed by the appearance of “thunder thighs” or experience physical discomfort from excess skin on the thighs, trust the plastic surgeons in the Franciscan Health network. These plastic surgeons are board-certified and knowledgeable on the most up-to-date surgical methods for thigh lift.

Thigh Lift Candidates

Ideal thigh lift patients are those who:

• Have excess skin, fat and tissue along the inner and/or outer thighs
• Experience physical discomfort (i.e., infections, chafing or rashes) due to excess skin on the thighs
• Are in good overall health
• Do not smoke
• Have realistic expectations from surgery

Thigh Lift Procedure Details

A thigh lift is performed on an outpatient basis, typically under general anesthesia. The surgeon will create an incision, typically in the groin, extending downward and wrapping around the back of the thigh. Some patients may only need a minimal incision, one that only involves an incision in the groin area. The plastic surgeon will determine the best incision method based on the patient’s anatomical needs and goals.

Fatty deposits in the thigh area will be removed via liposuction. Excess skin and tissue will also be removed. The remaining skin and tissue will be pulled until the skin is taut. The incisions will then be closed with stitches or sutures. The treatment area will be dressed with bandages and a compression garment will be placed on top.

Thigh lift is sometimes combined with other body contouring procedures such as lower body lift and tummy tuck to achieve more comprehensive results. The plastic surgeon will determine if thigh lift alone can achieve the desired outcome or if it should be combined with one or more procedures.

Thigh Lift Recovery

Patients will need to take one to two weeks off work and their normal routine. Common post-op side effects include bruising, swelling and tenderness. These symptoms are temporary and should subside a few days after surgery. Oral medication may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort. Patients should rest in a reclining position as much possible, as this places the least amount of tension on the incision sites. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for three to four weeks. Patients should always wear their compression garment (except when showering) until their surgeon says otherwise.

To learn more about thigh lift, schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon from the Franciscan Health network. Contact us today or browse through our online directory.