Thigh Lift – Thighplasty

A thigh lift is a body contouring procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from either the inner or outer thighs. This is often desirable after substantial or bariatric weight loss, with aging, or in individuals for whom dieting and exercise have failed to reduce excess tissue in their upper thighs. Liposuction may be used as an adjunct (additional procedure) to the recontouring of the inner thigh. If you are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a moderate weight, a thigh lift performed by Dr. Hayduke may help you regain the more youthful thigh contours you desire.

WHEN TO CONSIDER A THIGH LIFT

• If you want your thighs to have a better, more proportional contour and a   firmer look and feel.
• If you have undergone bariatric surgery or massive weight loss.
• If you are distressed about loose, flabby skin on your thighs.
• If you have difficulty fitting into clothing because of heavy thighs.
• If aging has caused your thighs to look loose and flabby

The following are some common reasons why you may want to consider a thigh lift:

• The effects of aging have led to sagging, cellulite and loose skin on your thighs.
• You have succeeded in a weight reduction program and you now desire shapely thighs that reflect your more proportional, toned figure.
• Clothes do not fit properly because of your heavy thighs.
• Your thighs make you feel self-conscious and you want to restore your self- assurance regarding your body.

If you are in good general health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you may be a good candidate for a thigh lift. After your private consultation with Dr. Hayduke, a customized plan for your particular thigh situation will be developed.

HOW IS A THIGH LIFT PROCEDURE PERFORMED?

INNER (Medial) Thigh Lift: An incision is made in the groin area, and excess fat and skin are excised along the inner aspect of the thigh. Liposuction is occasionally added. The area from the groin to the knee is recontoured and the procedure is repeated for the other inner thigh.

Figure 1  INNER THIGH LIFT – A limited incision is made in the groin area that extends partially around to the buttock crease. A wedge of skin and fat is removed by Dr. Hayduke as depicted in this illustration. The remaining inner thigh tissues are then tucked upwards.

Figure 2  EXTENDED INNER THIGH LIFT – Clients with larger amounts of excess loose skin along the entire inner thigh area may require a more extensive excision of skin and fat as depicted in this illustration. Dr. Hayduke would excise the area shown in maroon color above and tuck the remaining skin upwards and inwards. This tightens the appearance of the inner thighs for clients with a large amount of excess loose inner thigh skin.

OUTER (Lateral) Thigh Lift: This is a more complex procedure, involving recontouring of the outer thighs and removal of more tissue. Scarring is more extensive, and the skin will be less elastic after the surgery, so weight should be maintained.

Figure 3  OUTER THIGH LIFT – Dr. Hayduke excises skin and fat from the outer aspects of your thighs and the remaining soft tissues are tucked upwards to achieve an improved more youthful outer thigh appearance.

WHAT WILL MY THIGH LIFT INCISIONS AND SCARS BE LIKE?

Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift: The incisions are made in the groin area. For patients requiring more substantial removal of excess skin, a longitudinal incision may be made along the inner thigh for the “extended” inner thigh lift procedure. All scars are permanent.

Outer (Lateral) Thigh Lift: Depending on the requirements of the particular lateral thigh lift patient, the incisions will extend from the groin and around the hip. Dr. Hayduke attempts to place the incisions where the scars can be hidden by clothing, but the incisions will be somewhat more extensive than for a inner (medial) thigh lift. All scars are permanent.