A thigh lift will remove the excess skin of the inner thighs, resulting in a tighter and smooth appearance. Dr. Matthew Schulman routine performs thigh lift and thighplasty in our New York City plastic surgery practice.
A thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, can improve the tone and contour of your legs. It is a popular procedure for men and women who have lost weight and have excess loose, sagging skin.
However, many people find that the normal again process also results in laxity of the skin of their legs.
A thigh lift procedure performed in NYC aims to rejuvenate your thighs, giving them a smoother, firmer, and more sculpted appearance.
Ideal candidates for this surgery typically:
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Here are the different types of thigh lifts:
The specific technique for your thigh lift will depend on exactly where your unwanted skin in, and the amount of that skin. If you have skin isolated to the upper part of the inner thighs, Dr. Schulman is likely able to remove the skin using only an incision hidden within the groin crease. If you have a more significant amount of loose skin, or excess skin that extends down towards the knees, you will likely require an additional incision that goes down the inner part of the inner leg.
Regardless of the specific incisions, your thigh lift procedure will be performed in the safety of our certified and accredited office operating facility. Your anesthesia will be administered and monitored by our Board Certified Anesthesiologist.
First, Dr. Schulman is likely to perform liposuction to remove unwanted deposits of fat. Next, an incision is made in the crease of the groin and also in the inner part of the thighs. The excess skin is carefully removed and the skin is re-draped more tightly and closed with stitches. The result is a tighter, lifted, and smoother legs.
After the appropriate time in our operating room, you will be allowed to go home with your surgical escort. You will then follow the recovery protocol that will be detailed to you, as you begin to resume normal daily activities.
“Loose skin on your inner thighs can be very troubling for you. Unfortunately, liposuction isn’t going to help this since the issue is skin, not fat. In fact, liposuction may even make the skin appear worse. I will use special techniques to remove the skin and keep the scar as hidden as possible. Sometimes I can even combine your thigh lift with other procedures if needed.”
The recovery period following thigh lift surgery may differ among individuals. Typically, patients are advised to take it easy for 2-3 weeks post-surgery before gradually resuming regular activities over approximately six weeks.
During the initial two weeks, noticeable bruising and swelling can be expected.
The cost of a thigh lift (thighplasty) varies. It’s important to note that this figure only represents part of the total expenses, excluding anesthesia, operating room facilities, and other related costs. To determine your final fee, it’s advisable to consult with your plastic surgeon’s office.
The surgeon’s fee for thigh lift surgery depends on factors such as their experience, the specific procedure utilized, and the geographic location of the practice.
Typically, health insurance plans do not cover thigh lift surgery or its complications. However, many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans, so it’s recommended to inquire about these options.
I always had loose skin and after having two kids it only got worse. Dr. Schulman reshaped and sculpted me. I put my complete trust in him and he certainly proved himself.
How do I know if I need a thigh lift?
A thigh lift is specifically designed to remove the excess skin of the inner thighs. If you have hanging skin in this area, either from aging or weight loss, you are likely to be a good candidate.
How is this different from thigh liposuction?
Liposuction will remove the fat of the inner thighs, but do nothing for the excess skin. If you have good skin quality and extra fat, you may be a candidate for a liposuction procedure. But, if you have some hanging skin, you may require skin removal and a thigh lift surgery.
Do I need anesthesia?
A thigh lift surgery is typically done under either deep sedation or general anesthesia. It is done in our fully certified operating room and you are monitored the entire time by a Board Certified Anesthesiologist.
Is there a scar?
Yes. Because removal of the skin requires incisions in the skin, there will be a scar. This scar is located along the groin crease or along the inner thighs. The exact location of the scars will depend on how much excess skin you have and where the skin is located. Scars will fade over time, but will never completely go away, so you must be aware of this before undergoing your thigh lift procedure.
How long is the recovery?
Most people are able to begin normal movements within a few days. This includes walking and standing. We recommend avoiding unnecessary stair climbing or more robust walking for a few weeks, to allow the incisions to fully heal. Soreness and swelling is normal and can last for a few weeks. Most people are able to return to work and school in 10-14 days.
Will I need to wear a compression garment?
Yes. We recommend wearing a special compression garment to control the swelling. Most patients will wear these garments for about 4-6 weeks. They are easily worn under clothes and are very well tolerated. In fact, most people find the compression comforting.
Are there treatments to help the scar fade?
Special techniques are used during the surgery to help your scar heal as good as possible, however, your body is the ultimate decider in what type of scar it makes. We recommend starting silicone gel treatment to the scars early in the healing process. Also, there are lasers that are very helpful in flattening the scar and making the dark color fade. Your surgeon will be able to help you with a post-surgical plan to help promote the best scar possible. But again, keep in mind that some people make scars that are darker and thicker than others.
Is it possible to have the incision in the groin only?
This approach may be possible but only if your excess skin is near the upper inner thigh. Your surgeon will be able to tell you if this type of thigh lift approach is possible for you.
Can this surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes. In fact, it is common to combine a thigh lift with other procedures such as liposuction, buttock lift, and tummy tuck. This is because the same process of aging and weight fluctuations that cause laxity of the inner thighs can cause laxity other places on the body. Your surgeon will be able to tell you if you are a candidate for a combined surgical procedure.
If you choose to have a thigh lift, or thighplasty, in New York City, know that Dr. Schulman is among the most experienced in this procedure. Give our NYC practice a call at 212-289-1851 or click here to schedule your initial consultation.
