Laxity of the thigh skin and residual thigh fat can be the result of either weight gain and loss or aging. Sagging thighs can prevent you from fitting into the clothes you want forcing you to buy larger sizes or they can force you to wear long pants in warm weather. This can be a source of considerable embarrassment and self-consciousness for some people.

The thighs need to be thought of as two separate components, the outer thigh and the inner thigh. These two areas are treated very differently and the techniques used to correct them will depend on your particular anatomy. If there is minimal skin laxity and only excess fat, then liposuction can be used to correct the contour of both the inner and outer thighs. If you have laxity of the outer thigh and want this area corrected, then a lateral thigh lift is most appropriate. This procedure is often performed as part of a lower body lift, circumferential body lift, or extended tummy tuck. For patients with looseness of the inner thigh skin, a medial thigh lift can remove the excess skin and fat from this area. The extent of the skin laxity down the inner thigh will ultimately determine the length of the scar for this procedure.

Before and After Photos

There are several techniques to help you obtain the thigh contour you desire. During your consultation, Dr. Michaels will carefully listen to your concerns and tailor a treatment plan that will allow you to achieve your goals. Dr. Michaels a top surgeon for after weight loss plastic surgery in Maryland, having completed one of the few fellowships dedicated to this specialized area of plastic surgery.

Quick Facts

Length

2-6 hours (depending on extent of procedure)

Anesthesia

General

In/outpatient

Usually inpatient with 1 overnight stay, outpatient in select cases

Side effects

Temporary swelling, bruising, tightness and some pain

Risks

Pain, bleeding, infection, rare damage to nerves, asymmetry, incomplete improvement

Recovery

1-2 weeks back at work. 2 weeks light exercise. 3 weeks more strenuous activity. 8-12 weeks for swelling to resolve.

Duration of results

Proper diet and exercise can prolong results

If you would like to learn more about the thigh lift, click here or call (301) 468-5991 in Rockville, Maryland or (703) 957-8610 in Fairfax, Virginia to schedule a consultation.