Thigh Lift Procedures Demystified
As a board-certified plastic surgeon in Little Rock, Dr. Melanie Prince has helped many people achieve greater confidence and well-being through aesthetic procedures. She also understands that plastic surgery is a big decision and one that is best made with as much information as possible. If you’ve been wondering if thigh lift surgery is right for you, we’ll explain everything you need to know about this transformative procedure.
Who Gets Thigh Lift Surgery?
If you’re wondering who gets thigh lifts the answer is more people than you think! According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, thigh lift surgery was the fastest growing procedure in 2021 and it has continued to grow in popularity since then.1
Candidates for thigh lift surgery are people who are bothered by excess skin on their upper thighs. Loose skin on the thighs can occur due to aging or genetics, but it happens most often after significant weight loss. For many patients, a thigh lift is part of a customized post-weight loss surgery plan.
Are There Any Non-Surgical Alternative to Thigh Lift Surgery?
The truth is that if you have loose, excess skin, there is no cream, device, or injectable that can significantly tighten the skin. Exercise, as good as it is for you, is also not a solution for loose skin. If you have very mild skin laxity, there are laser procedures that may deliver some improvement. But for patients who are bothered by loose, hanging skin on the thighs, thigh lift surgery is typically the best option.
How Does Thigh Lift Surgery Work?
Thigh lift surgery is performed with general anesthesia, usually as an outpatient procedure. In terms of technique and incision placement, there are generally two approaches:
- Inner Thigh Lift: Incisions are made in the groin area, extending downward and wrapping around the back of the thigh.
- Outer Thigh Lift: Incisions are placed along the groin, extending around the hip and across the back.
Which approach is right for you? That will depend on your needs and goals. In either case, Dr. Prince will remove excess skin and fat. Then the remaining tissue is reshaped and tightened to create a smoother contour.
What is Recovery Like After Thigh Lift Surgery?
In the initial days after surgery, you may experience swelling and bruising, as well as some discomfort. Dr. Prince will prescribe pain medicine if needed and advise you on post-surgical care. You will need to wear compression garments to aid in healing.
Expect to take about one week off of most work and activities and at least four weeks off of strenuous exercise and activities. Dr. Prince will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect From Thigh Lift Surgery?
Final results will be visible once swelling and bruising subside, which can take several months. The incisions will leave scars, but they will fade over time and can often be concealed by clothing. You can expect smoother, more toned-looking thighs.
What are the Benefits of Thigh Lift Surgery?
- Boosted confidence and self-esteem
- Improved comfort during physical activities
- Ability to wear different types of clothing with ease
- Long-lasting results, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle and weight maintenance.
Questions about Thigh Lift Surgery? Contact Us
The best way to determine if a procedure is right for you is to schedule a consultation appointment with an experienced plastic surgeon. Contact us to schedule your consultation.
Sources
International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS). Global Survey 2021. Available: https://www.isaps.org/discover/about-isaps/global-statistics/reports-and-press-releases/global-survey-2021-full-report-and-press-releases/ Accessed July 9, 2024