Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need/want this service?
If you wish your thighs were firmer and more proportionate to your body, but have been unable to achieve this through fitness and weight control, you might consider a thigh contouring procedure. You also may be a good candidate for this procedure if you have experienced significant weight loss and are bothered by excess, sagging skin on the thighs. Candidates should be physically healthy, maintain a stable weight, and should not smoke.
What to expect if I get this done?
You will see some results immediately, but you will initially experience swelling and bruising, and it may take several months to see the final results of your surgery. Some visible scars will remain, but they will significantly fade over time. The results of this procedure are generally long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight, but you will likely see some subtle changes in firmness simply due to the natural aging process.
What should I expect before my procedure?
A consultation with one of our surgeons will be the best way to determine if you are a candidate for thigh contouring and what steps you will need to take prior to surgery. You will get to review before and after pictures of other patients with similar body types to get an idea of what your result may look like. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about two to three hours.
What should I expect after my surgery?
Your incisions will be covered in dressings or bandages and may also be wrapped in an elastic bandage or compression garment to minimize swelling. A slim tube may be placed under the skin to provide temporary drainage of any excess blood or fluid. You will receive instructions to follow at home and prescriptions for medication, and schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. You should expect to keep your support garments on per your surgeon’s instruction, and limit activity. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully.
Can this procedure target specific areas of the thigh?
Yes, your procedure will depend on what part of your leg you are seeking to reshape. An inner thighplasty focuses on the skin in the lower part of your inner thigh. A medial thigh lift will address the skin and fat on the upper portion of the inner thigh; this is a common procedure for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss. A bilateral thigh lift will improve the appearance of sagging or excess skin on the front and outside of the thigh.
Can this be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Some patients choose to undergo another cosmetic procedure along with a thigh lift to achieve an overall smoother, better proportioned body contour. Body contouring can include such procedures as an arm lift, breast lift, facelift, lower body lift, medial thigh lift and/or tummy tuck. These procedures can be combined with other plastic surgeries and also can also be performed at the same time with other planned medically indicated surgeries for a one time recovery. We will work with your UTMB surgeon to ensure a seamless experience. Please consult with one of our surgeons to determine the best approach for you.
Additionally, these procedures can be done at the same time as medically indicated procedures so that you only need to have one procedure with less recovery time than if performed separately. We can work with your UTMB surgeon to ensure a streamlined process and you receive the best care possible.