What to Expect

During thigh lift surgery, we reshape and sculpt the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. While liposuction can effectively spot-treat fatty deposits in the legs where skin tension is good, a thighplasty is more appropriate for patients who have excess skin and fat.

Before the procedure, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss your surgical goals and medical history. We will take photographs, review your medical records, and take measurements and photographs. Based on a variety of factors, your plastic surgeon will recommend the best course of treatment to meet your unique goals.

On the day of your thigh lift, you will come to our ambulatory surgery center in Flagstaff and be checked in. We’ll run a few final diagnostic tests, including weighing you, and you’ll talk to your surgeon to go over the surgical plan one last time. Once everything is prepared, you will be taken to the operating room and provided with IV sedation or general anesthesia by an anesthesiologist.

Based on your anatomy and goals, your surgeon will then make incisions in the groin that are hidden by the bikini line. There are a variety of incision patterns including:

• The inner thigh lift groin incision (mini thigh lift) extends transversely across the inner groin. This is a good option for patients with small to moderate amounts of extra skin that are mainly located near the top of the inner thigh.
• The inner thigh lift vertical incision (medial thigh lift) extends from the groin to the inner knee and allows your surgeon to remove redundant tissue from the full length of the inner thigh.
• The outer thigh lift incision runs from the inner groin, over the hip, and across the back. This pattern allows your surgeon to target stubborn fat deposits and sagging skin in the outer portions of the thigh.

Through these incisions, your plastic surgeon will remove excess fat, before stretching the skin into a tighter and more lifted position, excising excess skin, and closing the incision. Thigh lifts may be combined with liposuction to remove excess fat in the legs.

Patients can expect to notice smoother contours in their thighs immediately, as well as some swelling and bruising during the healing process. Final results are usually seen within the first few months of recovery. Results from thigh lift procedures are generally long-lasting, as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

Medical Review: This procedural information has been medically reviewed by plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Brian A. Cripe, M.D.