A thigh lift can remove excess skin from the inner or outer thighs to produce a smooth and contoured appearance. Patients may develop loose skin on the thighs due to their genetic profile, the aging process, or as a result of weight loss. No matter the cause of skin laxity of the thighs, Bay Area Plastic Surgeon John R. Griffin can examine prospective patients and determine which thigh lift technique will best meet their needs.
Thigh Lift Candidates
Patients who have developed excess skin on the inner or outer thighs are the best candidates for thigh lift surgery. Patients should be at a healthy, stable weight, and be committed to continuing an ongoing diet and exercise program. Patients should also be non-smokers that are in generally good health.
Thigh Lift Techniques
Depending on the nature and degree of skin laxity that affects the thighs, Dr. Griffin will perform one of the following thigh lift techniques.
- Inner/Medial: This technique removes a moderate amount of excess skin on the inside of the thighs. It involves the creation of an incision where the thigh meets the pubic area.
- Vertical: The vertical approach also treats excess skin of the inner thighs. However, this technique is capable of treating a larger amount of excess skin. The technique also includes an incision in the groin area, but the incision extends down in a straight line from the groin to the inner knee.
- Outer/Bilateral: This technique removes excess skin from the outside and front of the thighs. In the outer thigh lift, the incision is made in the groin, and it extends out toward the hip.
Thigh Lift Procedure Steps
The thigh lift procedure typically takes two to three hours to perform, and involves the following steps:
- The incision lines are marked with a surgical pen
- Antibacterial solution is applied to the groin and inner or outer thighs
- The patient is put under general anesthesia
- The incisions are made
- The skin and tissue are separated from the muscles
- The skin and tissue are re-draped over the underlying musculature, producing a smooth, unwrinkled appearance
- Excess skin is removed
- The incision is closed
- Bandages are applied
Thigh Lift Recovery
Once the surgery is complete, dressings are applied to cover the incisions. Dr. Griffin may also place surgical drains that will remove blood and other fluids from collecting under the incision site. Dr. Griffin will remove bandages and drains at a post-surgery follow-up visit.
In the meantime, patients should rest, and also take brief walks around the house to encourage circulation.
Patients will be given special garments to wear that will reduce swelling and compress the skin against the underlying tissues and muscles. The compression garment should be worn for up to six weeks following surgery.
Thigh Lift Side Effects
Side effects from a thigh lift procedure include bruising, discomfort, and itching of the incision sites, which should subside within two weeks following the procedure. Patients may also experience swelling and numbness of the incision sites; these effects may take a few weeks to a few months to fade.
Thigh Lift Risks
Some of the risks from a thigh lift procedure include bleeding at the incision site, infection, change in skin sensation, seroma, hematoma, or noticeable scarring. However, these risks are relatively rare occurrences.
Thigh Lift Results
The results from a thigh lift may be gradual, as the body takes on its new shape. Patients may begin to see results once swelling and bruising fade, but it may take one or two months before final results will be seen. The results of surgery should last for years, but it is up to the patient to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Thigh Lift Consultations
To schedule your thigh lift consultation, contact Dr. John Griffin.
