Thigh Lift in Upland & the Inland Empire
A thigh lift (thighplasty) removes extra sagging skin from the thighs and tightens the tissue underneath. The goal is a smoother, firmer contour and less skin rubbing or bunching.
Loose thigh skin is common after significant weight loss, including after gastric bypass or lap band surgery, but it can affect others too. A thigh lift can be done alone or along with other body lift procedures.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults with loose or sagging skin on the inner, back or outer thighs
- People who have lost a large amount of weight and are now stable
- Those in good general health who do not smoke or will quit
- Patients who are not seeking a weight loss procedure
- People willing to accept scars in the groin or along natural skin folds
- Those with realistic expectations about results and recovery
Dr. Smiley's technique and philosophy
Dr. Smiley, a board-certified plastic surgeon, chooses the thigh lift approach based on where the loose skin is. In a standard thigh lift, the incision usually begins in the groin and follows the natural skin fold toward the back of the thigh. The deeper tissue is lifted and tightened with internal sutures before extra skin is removed.
A medial thigh lift uses a shorter incision in the groin and may suit people mainly bothered by the upper inner thigh. An outer thigh lift uses an incision that follows the groin and wraps around the hip near the bikini line. Liposuction may be added for small amounts of fat. Dr. Smiley's philosophy is conservative, taking away only as much skin as needed to reach your goals.
What to expect
Consultation
At our Upland office, Dr. Smiley will examine your thighs, review your health and weight history and explain which type of thigh lift may suit you. He will also discuss scar location, anesthesia and how to get ready for surgery.
The procedure
A thigh lift is performed in an accredited surgical facility, not in our Upland consultation office. It is often done as an outpatient procedure. The incision is made, deeper tissue is lifted and secured, extra skin is removed and the incision is closed.
Recovery
Swelling, bruising and tightness are common early on, and compression garments are usually worn for several weeks. Many people return to light activity and desk work in one to two weeks but avoid strenuous exercise for about six weeks. Everyone heals differently, and scars continue to mature for many months. Loose, breathable clothing can help during hot Inland Empire days.
Before & after photos
Real patients of Dr. Smiley. Results vary; individual results depend on anatomy, health and healing.
See the full Thigh Lift before & after gallery on dr-smiley.com
Risks and safety
Thigh lift surgery has risks, including scarring, wound separation, infection, bleeding, fluid buildup, swelling, numbness, blood clots, asymmetry and anesthesia risks.
Dr. Smiley will discuss these risks and how to lower them during your consultation. Results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a thigh lift a weight loss procedure?
No. A thigh lift removes loose skin and reshapes the thigh. It is not meant to remove large amounts of fat, though liposuction may be added for smaller areas.
Where are thigh lift scars?
It depends on the technique. Scars are usually placed in the groin and along natural skin folds, and for an outer thigh lift they may extend around the hip near the bikini line.
What is a medial thigh lift?
A medial thigh lift uses a shorter incision in the groin area and is mainly for loose skin on the upper inner thigh.
Can a thigh lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. It is often done along with other body lift procedures, especially after major weight loss. Dr. Smiley will help decide what is safe to combine.
Book your consultation in Upland. Call (866) 372-3288 or text (714) 403-7092. Consultations are complimentary.
Learn more about this procedure on Dr. Smiley's main site: Thigh Lift at dr-smiley.com.