The results of a thigh lift are expected to last for many years. Incision scars may continue to lighten over a period of up to 12 months. The tightened appearance achieved during the surgery can persist for several years, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle after the procedure. While some skin loosening is inevitable with age, maintaining a stable weight should help prevent the thighs from returning to their pre-lift condition.
Thigh Lift
Enhance the contour of your thighs for a more sculpted appearance
Procedure Time:
2-4 hours
Recovery Time:
6-8 weeks
Results In:
6 months
Downtime:
2-4 weeks
What it Treats:
Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) In Northern Michigan
What Is A Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)?
A thigh lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at reshaping and refining the thighs by removing excess fat and skin. It is often sought after significant weight loss to redefine the contours of the thighs. Even with dedicated diet and exercise, this area can still hold onto stubborn fat deposits.
Ideal candidates for this surgery are those who are close to their target weight. While a thigh lift can result in smaller and firmer thighs, it should not be considered a substitute for weight loss.
Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) Procedure
We provide personalized consultations for thigh lift procedures at our Petoskey office, with surgeries performed at one of the premier surgical facilities in Traverse City.
First, a general anesthetic is administered to ensure your comfort during the thigh lift. Before making any incisions, your plastic surgeon may use liposuction to remove fatty deposits. Afterward, incisions are made based on the areas that require correction.
Typically, these incisions are located in the groin region and along the inner thigh. Whenever possible, your plastic surgeon will aim to hide the incisions within the natural creases of the body to minimize the visibility of scarring. The underlying thigh tissue is reshaped, and internal sutures are used to secure the tissue in its new position and form. The skin is then draped over the thighs, and any excess skin is removed. Finally, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.
Related Procedures
Ready to get started?
Interested in learning more about getting your thigh lift? Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment at Copper Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery by calling 231-929-7700.
Frequently Asked Questions
CoolSculpting and BodyTite are non-invasive technologies designed to permanently eliminate fat and enhance skin tightening. These procedures are commonly offered as alternatives to thigh lift surgery. CoolSculpting is performed in the Petoskey office, while most of our patients travel to Traverse City for BodyTite.
Recovering from a thigh lift requires dedication, as your incisions will need careful protection during the healing phase. It is advisable to have a friend or family member available to assist you during the first few days after surgery and with household tasks. Most patients typically take around two weeks off before returning to work, although you may be able to resume light errands after about a week. The suturing of the thigh skin up to the buttocks may cause discomfort while sitting, usually lasting about 1-2 weeks.
During the recovery period, it’s essential to sleep with your legs bent to protect your incisions. Bruising and swelling may persist for several weeks, and to help reduce swelling, you will be instructed to wear a compression garment for 3-4 weeks. It is recommended to wait at least 6 weeks before resuming strenuous exercise or physical activities.
A permanent scar will remain at the incision sites, although your surgeon will strive to position it as discreetly as possible. Scars generally diminish in visibility over time, and in most cases, thigh lift scars can be easily concealed with clothing and swimsuits.
Every surgical procedure comes with inherent risks. Potential risks associated with thigh lift surgery may include bleeding, infection, hematoma (blood clot), changes in skin sensation, skin discoloration, and scarring.
At Copper Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery, we prioritize patient safety and utilize advanced techniques to minimize potential complications. You can further reduce your risk by closely following all instructions provided by your plastic surgeon after your thigh lift.
Timeless Beauty, Personalized Artistry
Experience the best in plastic surgery procedures with the dedicated team at Copper Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Christopher C. Jeffries, along with our skilled staff, is committed to helping you achieve your beauty goals while providing the highest quality care in plastic or reconstructive surgery. We are proud to be Traverse City and Northern Michigan’s leading experts in this field.