Your Thighplasty Questions Answered

What is a Thighplasty?

Thighplasty is also called a thigh lift. It is a plastic surgery procedure that tightens the skin on the thighs. It removes fat from the thigh area to create a more contoured and slimmer look. During a thighplasty skin and sometimes fat is removed, and underlying tissue is reshaped and tightened. Any remaining skin is smoothed and lifted to create a uniform shape. Thigh lift results can last for a long time provided the patient does not gain a significant amount of weight.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Thighplasty?

A good candidate for a thighplasty is close to their ideal weight, is in optimal health, and has excess skin or tissue on the thighs because of significant weight loss, aging, or pregnancy. Due to the area of the incision – in the crease between the thigh and pubic area – a good candidate for a thighplasty is also able to avoid strenuous activity for up to six weeks to prevent wound breakdown or the need for surgery revisions. For those who only have unwanted fat on their thighs, liposuction may be a better option.

What are the Different Types of Thighplasty Procedures?

Depending on the patient’s goals and current body structure, a surgeon may choose from two types of thighplasty procedures: vertical and medial.

What Type of Thighplasty is Right for Me?

For patients with moderate to severe excess skin that want to target the upper and lower part of the inner thighs, a vertical thighplasty may be optimal to target that area. For mild to moderate excess skin in the upper thigh only, a medial thighplasty targets the upper part of the inner thigh.

Where are Thighplasty Incisions Located?

All thighplasty procedures require the surgeon to make an incision at the intersection of the thigh and pubic area. The incision for the vertical thighplasty can extend medially from the groin to the knee. For a medial thighplasty, the incision is in the groin area. Drains may be placed near the incision to keep fluid from building up and are removed after a few days. Surgery typically takes two to three hours. A compression garment is worn post-surgery to minimize swelling.

How Long Does it Take to Recover from Thighplasty?

Both vertical and medial thighplasties are usually performed on an outpatient basis and the patient can go home after recovery. All thighplasties are performed under general anesthesia. Post-surgery, patients need to be careful with the incisions as they can rupture without proper care or if the patient is unable to rest for seven to ten days. After four to six weeks, most physical activity can be resumed.

It is typical for patients to experience soreness, bruising, and swelling after thighplasty surgery, which can last for a month. Your surgeon may prescribe pain and anti-inflammatory medication. Scars will be hidden in the natural creases in the body and will fade over time. Patients may return to work or perform basic activities within seven to ten days and resume most physical activity in four to six weeks.  

What Are the Risks Associated with Thighplasty Surgery?

There are risks to all surgeries and whenever a patient is placed under anesthesia. Your surgeon should discuss all surgery risks with you and provide clear pre- and post-surgery instructions. Thighplasty surgery runs a high risk of suture rupturing because of the delicate location of the incisions. Patients need to exercise caution with everyday movement and activities.  Other risks associated with thigh lift surgery include fat necrosis, loose skin, numbness, asymmetry, discoloration, and scarring.

To learn more about thighplasty or begin your surgery journey, give us a call at 305-230-4326 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.