Overview
Weight loss can bring positive changes to a person’s life. However, it can also create challenges as the body adjusts to the new size. Dr. Michael E. Decherd and Dr. Matthew Isakson are San Antonio, TX plastic surgeons offering thigh lift surgery for patients who have sagging, loose skin on the thighs due to weight loss and aging. During this surgery, we will address the inner thigh with an incision in the groin area. Thigh lifts are popular today due to the success of bariatric weight loss surgeries. They produce results that depict a firmer, tighter thigh. It’s important for patients to be near their goal weight prior to having this surgery.
Thigh Lift Reviews
Surgical Technique
A thigh lift is performed to address the inner thighs and/or outer thighs (lateral thigh lift). During an inner thigh lift, an incision is made near the top of the thigh (along the crease where the torso meets the leg) and runs down the inner aspect of the thigh. Once the incision is made, a large section of tissue is removed from the top inner thigh area, and any excess skin will be excised away. Liposuction may be used to sculpt the area into a more desirable contour. The soft tissue structures and muscle are pulled tight and secured to result in a more toned and smooth skin surface.
Combination Procedures
A thigh lift can often be combined with another body contouring procedure, especially if it involves another area of the lower body. A common combination surgery for patients is a thigh lift and butt lift. Patients who require an outer thigh lift will generally need to have the buttocks addressed as well. During this approach, the outer thighs are pulled up and tightened, then secured with sutures along the crease at the bottom of the buttocks. In addition to a tighter appearance, most patients see a drastic improvement in skin irregularities, such as dimples from cellulite.
During/After Surgery
All thigh lift surgeries are performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility as an outpatient procedure. They typically take around 2-3 hours to complete. However, it could take longer if it is combined with another procedure. Recovery will vary, but typically takes 6-8 weeks. Scarring will be a part of this procedure. With proper scar care they should heal nicely and fade over time. Patients will see a marked improvement in the contour of their thighs, as well as a smoother, firmer skin tone.
Plan Your Procedure
- Recovery Time
- 6-8 Weeks
- Average Procedure Time
- 2-3 Hours
- Post-op Follow-up
- 2 Weeks
- Procedure Recovery Location
- Outpatient
Thigh Lift FAQ’s
Cure for Cellulite Dimples?
A thigh lift improves the appearance of the skin on the thighs. Because the skin is pulled and tightened, a smoother, more toned look will result. Some patients find that this alone makes the surgery worth it. While the surgery doesn’t remove every imperfection, the improvement can be very dramatic for many patients.
Post-Surgery Exercise?
Some patients fear that they will not be able to perform certain exercises (such as a lunge) after a thigh lift. This is false. Patients should gain approval from their surgeon before performing lower body exercises. Once healed, exercise will only help optimize the surgical outcome.
Long-Lasting Results?
The results of a thigh lift can be long lasting. However, any additional weight gain could compromise some of the aesthetic results attained from surgery. Over time, age and gravity will cause some of the natural laxity within the thighs to decrease, but the surgical improvement will still be evident.