Thighplasty
Thigh lift or thighplasty is a surgical procedure to address the front and inner thighs. Liposuction can be performed to improve the overall shape of the upper thighs and loose, hanging skin is lifted and removed. Typically, the incision is placed in the groin area and the scar hides well with most bathing suits.

Good Candidate
A good candidate for thigh lift surgery is someone with loose or “jiggly” upper thighs. The surgery primarily helps with the upper and inner thighs while it does not have a major effect on the outer thighs. The typical patient has had some weight changes that have left the skin loose or have left discrete fatty areas in the upper thighs.

Dressings
A tight, compression garment (similar to a girdle) will be worn after surgery for several weeks. The incision will have sutures and sometimes tapes and/or surgical glue. There will not need to be a lot of dressings or dressing changes.

Recovery
The procedure is usually an outpatient surgery. Most patients are walking the same day. After surgery there will be several days of pain medication and antibiotics. The compression garment is essential to support the area of liposuction but also to protect the incisions for excess tension and pulling. Plan for one to three weeks off from work and up to six weeks before resuming all activities.

Complications
Almost all surgery includes a risk of bleeding, infection and poor healing. Because the incisions are in a location that is constantly being “pulled” with every step, the risk of thicker scars is higher. Talk to your cosmetic surgeon about methods and products to minimize this risk. Seroma (a collection of fluid) is possible as well as damage to the underlying tissue (including nerves, blood vessels and muscle). Any medical problems you have will be considered by your surgeon before determining if you should proceed with a thighplasty.