A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the thighs by eliminating excess tissue and tightening the skin. It may be performed to target the skin on the inner or outer thighs or to produce a “thigh gap” or space between the thighs.

During an inner thigh lift, an incision is made along the junction where the leg and groin meet. This is done so that a wedge of skin and/or fat can be removed, providing a more pleasing shape to the inner thighs.

Outer thigh lifts firm skin on the outer thigh as well as the front of the thigh. An incision is made along the top of the lower leg in a v-shaped pattern, and may sometimes extend to your buttock area. This allows the surgeon to pull the remaining skin up so that it is tight and smooth.

The best way to get a thigh gap is through a medial thigh lift. Similar to an inner thigh lift, it targets only the tissue on the upper part of the inner thighs closest to the groin. It requires either an incision in the groin that extends to the back crease of your buttock or one running down the inside of the leg.

A thigh lift can:

1) Eliminate chafing or rubbing
2) Help people feel more self-confident when wearing shorts
3) Firm a problem area that is notoriously difficult to tighten through exercise

One of our staff members will take your weight and perform certain thigh measurements. Some markings may also be placed on your thighs to help guide the surgeon in making incisions. Local anesthesia or general sedation will be administered so that you are comfortable during your procedure. The appropriate incision will then be made, allowing the doctor to access tissue. Inner tissues will then be trimmed, and the remaining skin pulled smoothly over the top and secured to provide a svelte appearance.

Typically between two and three hours.

You will have a compression bandage over your thighs, and your sutures may also be covered with a gauze bandage. Before leaving our office, you will be given instructions on wearing and changing these bandages. Most patients feel a bit groggy for the rest of the day. This is completely normal and occurs naturally as the anesthesia wears off.