Men and women with loose, sagging skin on the inner and/or outer thighs may benefit from a thigh lift. This procedure tightens and lifts the upper leg skin, improving both appearance and contour. Liposuction may also be used alongside the lift to refine adjacent areas and enhance overall results.
For an inner thigh lift, the incision is made in the groin and may extend toward the buttocks or down the inner thigh in more severe cases. For an outer thigh lift, the incision is made over the hips and buttocks. Excess skin is removed, deeper tissue is repaired, and dressings and a compression garment are applied. In some cases, drains are placed to prevent fluid buildup.
The procedure is performed under general or epidural anesthesia, and an overnight hospital stay is typically recommended.
Recovery time at home is generally 7 to 10 days. A compression garment helps reduce swelling and support healing. Most patients can resume exercise and strenuous activity after 6 weeks, with visible improvements in thigh contour continuing to develop over time.
