An inner thigh lift is a surgical procedure that addresses sagging skin that may be the result of weight loss or aging. The lift removes excess skin and fat and tightens the underlying structure of the thigh for a leaner, more youthful body contour. Inner thigh lifts are specifically used to remove pockets of fat and loose skin that have not responded to diet and exercise.
Best Candidates
The best candidates for an inner thigh lift are patients in good health and of average weight. These patients usually have isolated pockets of fat and loose skin in the upper thigh area they would like to eliminate. Many individuals interested in a thigh lift may also experience excess skin in the upper arms, which can be addressed by adding an arm lift to a patient’s treatment plan. The thigh lift procedure is not recommended as a weight loss measure and should not be performed until weight loss goals are met.
It should be noted that an upper thigh lift requires at least one full week of recovery time and sometimes more. Patients will be able to stand up and walk around, but they will not be able to sit comfortably during that time. Patients should prepare for time off work and other duties before they undergo inner thigh lift surgery.
About the Procedure
Our plastic surgeon—Dr. Geoffrey Leber—performs inner thigh lifts under general anesthesia and usually as an outpatient procedure. Incisions are made in the groin area, wrapping around to the back of the thigh. In some cases, the incision may be slightly larger or smaller, depending on the amount of tissue and skin that needs to be removed.
This incision allows Dr. Leber access to remove extra fat tissue and excess skin. Liposuction may be used during the procedure to loosen and remove fat pockets. An inner thigh lift typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete.
Recovery and Results
Most patients return home the same day as the procedure. Drainage tubes may be placed in the incision to allow the treatment area to drain for 1-3 days. Pain medication is prescribed to help patients manage any discomfort in the first few days after surgery.
Most patients return to work and other regular activities within 10 days to two weeks. Results of a thigh lift are seen right away, but continue to improve over the following weeks as residual swelling and bruising subside. An inner thigh lift is considered a permanent solution to fat pockets and sagging skin, as long as the patient maintains a healthy weight after surgery.
For more information about an inner thigh lift, or other cosmetic procedures you might be considering, contact Dr. Leber’s staff at his Scottsdale-area clinic.