Types of Thigh Lifts
A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat in the inner and outer thighs to improve their outline. Weight loss and aging are some factors that can cause fat and loose skin to form on the thighs. Also, fat and cellulite can accumulate in your thighs over time if you are not physically active.
If you feel self-conscious about your thighs, becoming physically active and incorporating leg workouts in your routine can help tighten the skin and get rid of fat. If fitness efforts do not improve your thighs’ appearance, a thigh lift surgery may work for you.
What Are the Different Types of Thigh Lifts?
There are three types of thigh lift surgery. They include:
Inner Thigh Lift Surgery
An inner thigh lift surgery tightens the loose skin on the bottom part of the thigh on the inner side. It makes incisions in the groin, spreading downward and looping around the thigh’s back area.
Another method makes a cut along the inner thigh from the groin area and extends downward toward the knee. You may also qualify for an inner thigh lift surgery that places an incision only in the groin.
Your plastic surgeon will determine which technique best suits your situation. It may take six to eight weeks for the incisions to fully heal and the swelling in your hip to reduce. The swelling should have cleared up after six months.
Medial Thigh Lift Surgery
A medial thigh lift surgery is the most common type of thigh lift procedure. It also targets the excess skin on the inner thigh but moves up to the thigh's mid and upper part. During the procedure, your plastic surgeon will make an incision along your groin area that extends along the gluteal fold (buttocks creases). Through that cut, the surgeon can remove excess skin, tissue, and fat and tighten the remaining skin.
You can perform light tasks and activities like walking, driving, and house chores two weeks after the procedure. More vigorous or energetic activities, such as running, biking, or dancing, may have to wait six weeks or more.
Bilateral Thigh Lift Surgery
A bilateral thigh lift surgery removes extra skin on the thigh’s entire length but focuses on the front, outer part of the thigh.
The incision begins at the upper part of the leg and moves outwards to your hip and upper buttock area. The surgeon removes extra fat and skin from the outer and front parts of the leg and pulls the remaining skin tighter.
Recovery from a bilateral thigh lift procedure usually takes four to six weeks. You can resume non-strenuous activities like short walks early in your recovery. The inner and medial thigh lifts happen on an outpatient basis. But the bilateral thigh lift may require an overnight stay at the hospital.
Do You Need a Thigh Lift Surgery?
A thigh lift procedure can improve the shape and outline of your legs, giving you a more self-assured feel for your look. A physical exam by your plastic surgeon will help determine your candidacy for a thigh lift procedure. Your surgeon can also explain the benefits, risks, and side effects before you commit to it.
For more information on thigh lift surgeries or to schedule a consultation, contact Aesthetic Surgical Associates at our office in Metairie, Louisiana, also serving the New Orleans area. Call 504-226-8200 today.
