Thigh lift surgery is a solution for sagging thigh skin. The procedure helps to redefine, tighten, and re-contour the thighs and lower body. The benefits of a thigh lift are better contouring and smoother skin on the thighs. Patients feel more confident wearing shorts or skirts and generally experience a significant increase in self-esteem. Many thigh lift procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the day of surgery.

General anesthesia or sedation is typically used during the procedure. The first step is the incision, which can be placed in different areas depending on the amount of contouring and adjustment required. Many incisions begin in the groin area and extend to the buttocks or down the legs. Generally, the longer the incision, the easier it will be to tighten the skin and thigh contour.

To avoid scarring, plastic surgeons will make the incision as short as possible. When the incision is made, excess skin (and fat, if necessary) is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened and contoured to improve the overall shape of the thighs. Support sutures can be used to help shape and support the tissues as well. A thigh lift generally takes one to two hours per thigh.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF A THIGH LIFT?

Although a thigh lift is generally a safe procedure, there are always risks to major surgery. Choosing the right surgeon and following all instructions before and after the operation will greatly reduce the risk of complications. Some potential risks may include: Bleeding Infection Complications of anesthesia Fat necrosis Deep vein thrombosis or lung problems. Skin loss Poor healing Fluid accumulation Excessive scarring

HOW LONG DO THIGH LIFT RESULTS LAST?

As long as thigh lift patients maintain a stable weight after surgery, the results of a thigh lift procedure should last for years. The only changes that can occur must be subtle and are generally related to aging. Weight fluctuation should be avoided as this can stretch the skin again after surgery.

ARE THIGH LIFT SCARS EXTENSIVE?

Unfortunately, with the amount of skin that is usually removed in thigh lift surgery, the scars from the procedure can be quite extensive. For less complete thigh lifts, smaller incisions may be sufficient for satisfactory results, but not generally. You and your surgeon will discuss incision patterns before surgery.

CAN THIGH LIFT SURGERY BE COMBINED WITH OTHER PROCEDURES?

Yes. Thigh lift surgery is often a component of a larger treatment plan related to weight loss surgery, massive weight loss, or aging-related body contour changes. Depending on the number and type of procedures required, these surgeries may need to be divided for your safety. Your surgeon will advise you on your options before proceeding.

ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A THIGH LIFT?

Thigh lift surgery is ideal for healthy adults who have sagging, loose skin, and poor thigh contour that will not resolve with diet and exercise. Patients must be at a stable weight and be able to maintain that weight after surgery, as the skin will still expand and retract normally once the surgery is performed and the incisions heal. Many people should consider another procedure, such as thigh liposuction, if stubborn fat is a problem and the elasticity of the skin is still intact.