Thigh lift surgery is one of the most requested procedures by patients in 2022. There are two types of thigh lift procedures: inner thigh lift and standard thigh lift. An inner thigh lift is the most common and it gives the top part of the inner thigh a more firm appearance by removing excess skin. A standard thigh lift reshapes and tones the upper part of the leg. These procedures are commonly performed on patients who have just lost a significant amount of weight. If you believe this procedure might be right for you, you should speak to a plastic surgeon. You can learn a little more below about the procedure and what to expect from recovery.

What is thigh lift surgery?

During thigh lift surgery, your plastic surgeon will remove unwanted fat and tighten the skin in the thigh area. This produces smoother skin and a nice contour in the lower body.

Procedure overview: what to expect

While each individual has unique goals for their procedure, there are a few general steps you can expect when undergoing thigh lift surgery. To perform the procedure, your surgeon will execute the following steps. Generally speaking, you will also have a similar recovery timeline to other thigh lift surgery patients.

Step #1: Anesthesia

First, your surgeon will provide anesthesia. This is to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Your surgeon may administer the anesthesia intravenously or generally.

Step #2: Making the Incisions & Removing Fat

Next, your surgeon makes the necessary incisions to remove the fat on the thighs. Specifically, there are two possible types of incisions for this procedure: inner and outer incisions.

An inner thigh lift incision is made in the groin, continues down the leg, and wraps around the back of the thigh. Another technique your surgeon may employ is removing excess skin from the groin down to the knee using an incision along the inseam. Finally, a minimal incision inner thigh lift involves an incision only in the groin area. Your plastic surgeon will determine what’s appropriate to achieve your goals.

An outer thigh lift incision extends from the groin around the hip and across the back.

Generally speaking, there are advanced techniques, which, in some cases, allow incisions to be placed in strategic locations where they can be hidden. However, for this procedure, incisions may be more extensive.

After the correct incision is made, your surgeon then removes the necessary fat and lifts the skin to tighten it.

Step #3: Closing the Incisions

To close these incisions, sutures are placed within underlying tissues to form and support the newly shaped thigh contours. Your surgeon may use sutures, skin adhesive tapes, or clips to close the skin incisions.

Step #4: Recovery & Results

The outcome of your thigh lift surgery will be immediately visible. However, you will have to wait for the bruising and swelling to reduce to see the final product. Note that these symptoms should subside over the course of a week to 10 days. There may be some visible scars but the results should last a lifetime as long as you maintain a stable weight and general fitness.

What is recovery like for thigh lift surgery?

Immediately following the procedure, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions. Additionally, small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain excess fluid or blood that may collect.

For a smooth and speedy recovery, you should follow all the directions that your doctor provides. You will be given specific instructions that may include:

  • How to care for the surgical site(s)
  • Medications to apply or take orally
  • Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
  • When to follow up with your plastic surgeon

Dr. Anthony Berlet: Helping Patients for Over 20 Years

Dr. Anthony Berlet has served patients in the northern NJ and New York City areas for over 20 years. Women who are considering thigh lift surgery should understand all their options before choosing surgery. If you are wondering how long the results last, or if you’re a good candidate, speak with a certified plastic surgeon. With expertise and training, the right surgeon should be able to answer all of your lingering questions. Please schedule a consultation or reach out to us today to learn more about your options for smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles and adding volume to the cheeks and lips.