Thigh Lift
What is a Thigh Lift?
A thigh lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the contour and appearance of the thighs by removing excess skin and, in some cases, fat. At Plano Plastic Surgery, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaime Haidenberg performs thigh lifts in Plano, TX, including scarless techniques for qualifying patients, giving a firmer, smoother, and more youthful appearance. It is particularly popular among individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, resulting in sagging skin that cannot be addressed through exercise alone.
Types of Thigh Lifts:
Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift:
Targets the inner thigh, helping to reduce sagging in this area. The incision is usually hidden in the groin fold. This procedure is ideal for those who have sagging skin primarily in the upper portion of the inner thigh.
Middle Thigh Lift:
While it also targets the inner thigh, the middle thigh lift focuses on the area from the groin to the middle of the thigh. This procedure is suitable for those who want to address moderate sagging skin in the upper and middle parts of the inner thigh.
Lateral (Outer) Thigh Lift:
Concentrates on the outer and front parts of the thighs. The incision often starts at the groin, extends around the hip, and may reach toward the buttock fold. It’s ideal for individuals who have significant sagging skin or want to address both the front and outer thigh areas.
Full Thigh Lift:
This comprehensive procedure combines elements of the inner, middle, and outer thigh lifts. It addresses sagging skin throughout the entire thigh area, from the groin to the knee. Given its extensive nature, it offers a dramatic transformation but may also come with more extended incisions.
Mini Thigh Lift:
Why Plano Plastic Surgery?
At Plano Plastic Surgery, our standard is excellence from the first consultation through every follow-up. Our surgical team brings decades of combined experience in cosmetic breast surgery, with a patient-centered approach that prioritizes safety, natural results, and genuine care.
All breast augmentation procedures at Plano Plastic Surgery are performed in our on-site AAAASF-accredited surgical suite — a credential that reflects the highest standards of facility safety and patient care. We customize every treatment plan to the individual patient, recognizing that goals, anatomy, and lifestyle are different for every person who comes through our doors.
Our team also has extensive experience with breast revision surgery, helping patients who have sought correction of results from prior procedures at other practices.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
We prioritize an individualized approach, ensuring every consultation is thorough, personalized, and informative.
Customized Treatment Approaches
Recognizing that each patient is unique, our treatments are tailored to individual needs and desired outcomes.
Patient Care and Safety
Our team is uncompromising in ensuring the highest levels of patient safety and care at every stage of the journey.
Commitment to Continuous Education
The medical field is ever-evolving, and our dedication to ongoing education ensures we stay at the forefront of advancements.
Exceptional Results
Our commitment to excellence ensures results that consistently exceed expectations.
Revisions
Both of these doctors have a combined experience of over 61 years and have vast experience with "revision surgery" with 100's of revisions performed to correct previous surgery that the patient was not happy with from a different doctor and practice.
How It’s Done
The procedure begins with the administration of general anesthesia to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the process. A circumferential incision is made around the waist or slightly lower, depending on the patient’s anatomy and the amount of skin to be removed. The incision is strategically placed to be as discreet as possible, often concealed within the natural folds of the skin or under clothing.
After making the incision, the surgeon excises the redundant skin. Concurrently, liposuction may be employed to remove unwanted fat pockets, especially in areas like the flanks, abdomen, or thighs, further refining the body’s silhouette. For patients with muscle laxity in the abdominal region, the surgeon might also tighten the underlying muscles. This provides a firmer base and a more sculpted appearance.
Once the desired reshaping is achieved, the incisions are sutured closed. Sometimes, temporary drain tubes are placed to prevent fluid accumulation. Before concluding, the surgeon assesses the overall contour and symmetry, ensuring an even and aesthetic result. Post-operative care begins immediately after the surgery, with guidelines provided to ensure a smooth and effective recovery.
Who is a Good Candidate?
A thigh lift might be right for individuals who:
- Are in relatively good health without medical conditions that can impair healing.
- Have excess, sagging skin on their thighs due to aging, weight loss, or other factors.
- Maintain a stable weight and are committed to a healthy lifestyle.
- Hold realistic expectations about the results.
Thigh Lift Recovery and What to Expect
Immediate Post-Operative Phase
Initial Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common, peaking in the first week.
Mid Recovery Phase (1-4 weeks)
Compression Garments: These are worn for a few weeks to reduce swelling and support healing tissues.
Incision Care: Surgeons will give guidelines on cleaning the surgical site and changing dressings.
Long-Term Recovery
Resumption of Activities: Light activities can start in a couple of weeks, but intense activities should wait for 6-8 weeks.
Final Results: The full effects of the thigh lift can take up to a year to materialize as swelling and bruising dissipate.
Potential Side Effects
FAQ
What is a scarless thigh lift?
Scarless or minimally invasive thigh lift techniques use smaller incisions, often combined with liposuction, to reduce visible scarring compared to traditional thigh lift approaches. Not every patient is a candidate, the right technique depends on the amount of excess skin present. Learn more in our full guide
How much does a thigh lift cost?
Thigh lift cost varies based on the technique used, the extent of correction needed, and whether it is combined with other procedures. Schedule a consultation for pricing specific to your goals.
What are the different types of thigh lift surgery?
Plano Plastic Surgery offers inner (medial), middle, lateral (outer), full, and mini thigh lift techniques, each suited to a different pattern and amount of excess skin. Dr. Haidenberg will recommend the right approach during your consultation.