Thigh Lift

A thigh lift in the Scottsdale, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ area aims to rejuvenate and contour the thighs using surgical incisions to remove excess fat and skin. The thighs can be subject to fatty deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise, causing frustration when trying to achieve your body goals. Similarly, loose skin and muscles don’t respond to diet and exercise, meaning surgical intervention is required.

This procedure is appropriate for patients with milder forms of thigh sagging and in those patients who wish to avoid more visible scarring on the inside of the thigh. It is not ideal for patients with severe cases of loose skin because the procedure’s upward pull is not as effective lower down the leg, allowing tissues to relax again. During a consultation in the Scottsdale, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ area, Dr. Angelchik can assess your anatomy and determine the best procedure plan for you. In general, you should be in good health and able to undergo surgery to be considered a candidate for a thigh lift.

There are two different incision options for a thigh lift procedure, and Dr. Angelchik can determine the best one for you during a consultation. These options include:

Inner Thigh Incision

This incision can be placed where the thigh meets the groin and extending down the back of the thigh, meaning scarring can be easily concealed within the natural folds. In some cases, a shorter scar can be used that extends only along the fold of the groin area. These techniques more effectively addresses laxity and fat in the inner thigh.

Outer Thigh Incision

This incision type begins within the fold of the groin and wraps around the top of the hip to the back. This type can also be concealed with clothing since it follows the bikini line. This incision type more effectively addresses fat and laxity in the outer thigh and hip area.

A thigh lift can be performed using general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. Most patients are able to return home within the same day, although Dr. Angelchik may determine an overnight stay would be best, depending on how extensive your procedure is. Once anesthesia is administered, a predetermined incision is made that allows for surgical removal of fat and excess skin. Some patients can benefit from liposuction on the surrounding area, which can be performed within the same surgical session. This can help to further refine the contours of the lower body in addition to your thigh lift. Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed and drains may be placed.

The major issue with recovery from thigh lift procedures is positioning, because a sitting or squatting position is discouraged for two weeks. This is to avoid pulling too hard on the groin incision until the tissues relax enough to avoid a separation of the suture line. Dr. Angelchik can instruct you on the best positions for your downtime. Pain is moderate and well-controlled with oral pain medication. Antibiotics are prescribed for one week and hygiene is reviewed to minimize the risk of infection in the groin area. Sutures are dissolvable and do not need to be removed. Early walking is encouraged to reduce the risk of blood clots, but you should avoid strenuous activity or lifting. Patients can typically return to a desk job at two or three weeks. Dr. Angelchik will provide you with explicit recovery instructions to follow during your downtime.

Dr. Angelchik is a top body contouring plastic surgeon in the Scottsdale, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ area who can recommend the best thigh lift procedure for your goals and anatomy. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling or filling out our online form.