THIGH LIFT

Thigh lift is a surgical procedure that removes loose skin and excess fat from the thighs. It is typically performed after significant weight loss, massive liposuction on the thighs or sagging skin due to aging and/or genetics. 

There are different types of thigh lifts depending on the problem addressed: 

Inner thigh lift (also known as Medial thigh lift): it is the most popular type of thigh lift. Inner thigh lift addresses skin laxity of the whole thigh area and is often combined with liposuction (preferably VASER® liposuction) to improve thigh’s shape and size. The incision extends down the inner thigh to the knees and can efficiently transform thigh contour. 

 

Mini thigh lift: although strongly appealing to most patients due to the short, hidden incision, mini thigh lift has limited indications. Mini thigh lift can only treat skin laxity of the upper thighs, thus, only a very small portion of patients are good candidates for this type of thigh lift. The incision is placed in the groin crease, at the top of the inner thighs.

 

Outer thigh lift (also known as Bilateral thigh lift): Often performed to post bariatric patients, outer thigh lift focuses on skin tightening on the front and the outside of the thighs. It can be done in conjunction with a lower body lift, the incision is placed just bellow the buttock and continues to the outside of the legs. Outer thigh lift however can not effectively treat sagging skin in the inner thighs, a very common area with skin laxity. 

 

Posterior thigh lift: Posterior thigh lift can only treat the back of the thigh. Since it is very uncommon to have skin laxity in the back of the thighs alone, posterior thigh lift is not so often performed. 

The non surgical thigh lift

Thigh lift is associated with incisions and scars, as a result, many doctors offer the option of the so called “scarless thigh lift”. The most effective devices to achieve tightening of the skin is Renuvion® (J-Plasma) and BodyTite® which can both be paired with VASER® liposuction for better results. These skin tightening options use targeted energy to contract existing collagen fibers and stimulate new collagen production in the skin and subdermal tissues and work better for patients with mild skin laxity. Dr Pagkalos advises patients with moderate to severe sagging and excess skin to opt for a thigh lift in order to have optimal results and avoid disappointment. 

Pros

  • Thigh lift can effectively eliminate loose skin. There really isn’t a comparable nonsurgical treatment that can tighten sagging skin so effectively. 
  • It brings thighs into better proportion with the rest of the body and makes them look more toned and youthful. 
  • Thigh lift can eliminate skin irritation or fungal cutaneous disease often associated with sagging skin. 
  • Although thigh lift is not a treatment for cellulite, it can make it less noticeable. 

Cons

  •  Thigh lift is a major surgery with potential complication and extended recovery period. 
  • Thigh lift results in visible scars on patient’s thighs. Although these scars fade over time, they will always be visible and may bother some patients. 
  • Thigh lift is a challenging procedure for the plastic surgeon which requires advanced surgical skills, deep knowledge and meticulous surgical technique. It is therefore advised to consult with multiple plastic surgeons before deciding which surgeon will be most likely to give you your desired results. 

Recovery

Antibiotics and good wound care is mandatory in thigh lift. Patients should religiously follow plastic surgeon’s instructions and report to their plastic surgeon regularly in order to minimize potential complications. One should expect a minimum of 2 weeks recovery time and is always advised to have a friend or family member at home for the first few days post OP. For the healing process to go smoothly, patients should take things easy during the first few days. 

 

Thigh lift patients typically wear a compression garment for the first four weeks post OP. 

 

According to Dr Pagkalos, body position during recovery is very important: To lessen tension on the incision and prevent wound separation, patients should sit and rest with legs slightly bent. Furthermore, keeping legs elevated for as long as possible, especially during the first days post OP will significantly reduce discomfort and swelling. 

Results

Patients see immediate improvement due to the removal of excess skin, but it can take months for the swelling and bruising to resolve. Scars are permanent but will fade over time. 

 

The results of a thigh lift are expected to last at least a decade, if the patient maintains a stable weight, exercises regularly and follows a healthy lifestyle. Avoiding sun exposure, smoking and alcohol will help preserve skin’s remaining elasticity and slow down the naturally ongoing skin laxity.