What is a Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift is performed to remove sagging tissues and tighten the skin, of the inner or outer thighs to produce a more aesthetically pleasing appearance in the upper legs. Dr. Hutchinson can help you achieve slimmer, more contoured thighs by removing excess fat and skin from either or both the inner and outer thigh areas.

An inner or medial thigh lift may be performed with or without liposuction to shape the area between the upper legs, whereas an outer or lateral thigh lift addresses the external contours of the thighs and may produce even more significant results when combined with liposuction or a buttock lift. 

A thigh lift can be either performed alone or in combination with other cosmetic procedures such as a body lift or a buttock lift. When combined with other procedures, patients can achieve optimal results and obtain a younger looking, more shapely appearance overall. Dr. Hutchinson will discuss your personal aesthetic goals with you to develop the best treatment plan for you.

Key Benefits of a Thigh Lift

  • Improved appearance and contour of the inner and outer thighs
  • Smooth and balanced aesthetic lines between the torso and thighs
  • Enhanced and natural looking curves
  • Boosted self-image and confidence

Thigh Lift Procedure Details

A thigh lift is performed under general anesthesia and requires an incision in the inner or outer thigh area.

An inner (medial) thigh lift may require an incision only in the groin area and is ideal for patients with a limited amount of skin and fat in the inner thigh area. In patients with more extensive skin laxity, the incision may extend downwards along the inner aspect of the thigh.

An outer (lateral) thigh lift involves an incision along the upper hips and can often lift the buttocks in addition to the thighs. After the incision is made, Dr. Hutchinson will remove excess skin and fat and then tighten the thigh tissues to create a smoother and more harmonious contour. 

What Risks are Involved?

Although this procedure is safe for most patients, there are possible risks and complications associated with any type of surgical procedure. Some of these risks include infection, healing problems, bleeding issues, and fluid collections. Patients can reduce these risks by choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon such as Dr. Hutchinson to perform their procedure and by following the surgeon’s instructions before and after surgery.

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Recovery 

After surgery, patients may experience some bruising, swelling, and soreness. Discomfort is generally modest after most types of thigh lifts, although each patient’s recovery will be unique. For all patients, pain medication and other means to aid with patient comfort after surgery will be recommended. 

The results of the procedure will be visible immediately and will continue to improve as swelling and other symptoms subside. Light physical activity is normally possible after less than 2 weeks, while more strenuous exercise is permissible at 4 to 6 weeks. All symptoms should resolve within a few weeks, and scars fade within 12 months. The results of a thigh lift can be permanent, as long as patients maintain an active and healthy life and do not gain significant amounts of weight. 

Who is a Candidate for a Thigh Lift?

The thigh lift procedure is an ideal cosmetic surgery for those who are in good overall health but are unhappy with excess skin and tissue in the inner or outer thigh area. This can result from the natural aging process, after pregnancy, liposuction, or other significant weight loss. 

A thigh lift should not be considered a means to easily reduce one’s weight. It is most effective for patients who are near their ideal weight but are still displeased with the appearance of their thighs. It’s very important for patients to maintain realistic expectations in order to be satisfied with the results of their thigh lift procedure.

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Dr. Olivia Hutchinson in scrubs
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's surgical practice in Upper East Side - 5
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's surgical practice in Upper East Side - 7

Why Choose Dr. Hutchinson for a Thigh Lift?

Olivia Hutchinson, MD is a Fellowship educated, board certified aesthetic plastic surgeon who offers high end, sophisticated care and provides the highest level of attention to each individual patient. She has been delivering beautiful and exceptional results to patients on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and beyond for over 20 years and is widely respected and recognized for her superior work. She offers unique concierge services and performs all procedures either in her accredited office based facility or in hospitals in NYC. To learn more about what a thigh lift can do for you, contact us online or call us at our office.

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