A thigh lift, also referred to as thighplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the thighs while tightening the surrounding tissue to create a slimmer, smoother contour. This procedure typically benefits individuals who have lost a substantial amount of weight or who are bothered by sagging skin along the inner/outer thighs. Whether this skin laxity is caused by genetics, weight loss, or the natural aging process, a thigh lift can help patients feel more comfortable in their own skin and improve confidence in form-fitting clothing or swimwear.
What are the Benefits of a Thigh Lift?
By removing loose, hanging skin, a thigh lift creates a firmer, more proportional leg contour with a smoother silhouette, especially after major weight loss. The procedure generally leaves patients with:
- A smoother, more refined thigh shape
- A more sculpted silhouette
- Restored circumferential support for the thighs
- Improved comfort due to less chafing and skin inflammation caused by excess hanging skin
Thigh lift surgery is performed by Dr. James M. Shaw to remove excess skin and tighten the upper thigh area. The inner thigh is most commonly addressed, as the skin in this region is thinner and less elastic than the rest of the thigh skin. For most patients, liposuction is performed as part of the surgery in order to remove excess or uneven fat deposits before removing the excess skin.
How is the Thigh Lift Procedure Performed?
A thigh lift is typically performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient surgery. The most common technique is to remove a crescent-shaped portion of skin on the upper inner thigh. This allows for removal of the stretched skin and leaves a scar that is almost in the groin crease, where it is not very noticeable.
A more aggressive approach may be necessary for patients after substantial weight loss. There may be loose skin much farther down the inner thigh than the upper crescent excision will address. For these patients, the skin removed is V-shaped and there is a resulting scar going up and down on the inner thigh.
Other approaches can be utilized as well, depending on each patient’s particular situation. The trade-off is always managing how much skin can be removed vs. how long and noticeable the resulting scars will be.
What Can I Expect From Recovery After a Thigh Lift?
The discomfort after thigh lift surgery is typically easily managed with small doses of pain medication and cold packs. However, drains may be necessary. This is especially true in patients who have had weight loss surgeries.
Usually, if there is a higher level of discomfort, it is related to increased activity levels. It is best to stay home and avoid any strenuous activity for the first six or seven days. Vigorous exercise should also be avoided for the first month or so. Showering is encouraged beginning the day after surgery; however, submerging incisions in a tub or pool should be avoided during the first month or so.
How Much Does a Thigh Lift Cost?
Rates for plastic surgery vary according to one’s geographic region, and costs in Wichita, Kansas are generally much more affordable than more expensive parts of the country. Your cost estimate depends on several factors, including:
- The type of thigh lift performed
- The extent of skin and fat removal necessary
- Surgeon’s fees, anesthesia and facility costs, etc.
Since every patient’s anatomy and goals are different, the best way to receive an accurate quote is through a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Plastic surgery financing through CareCredit® can also be an option for qualified patients, which provides a more manageable payment plan for thigh lift surgery according to one’s budget. If you have any questions about thigh lift costs in Wichita, don’t hesitate to reach out to Shaw Plastic Surgery.
Whether you’re interested in pursuing a thigh lift alone or as a larger skin tightening plan after major weight loss, Dr. Shaw is a board-certified plastic surgeon and aesthetic specialist who is well-equipped to achieve the stunning results you deserve. Contact Shaw Plastic Surgery today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.