Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

Thigh lift surgery is performed by a Plastic Surgeon to remove excess skin from the thigh and buttock areas. Sagging skin in these areas is usually caused by significant weight loss. After patients have lost a lot of weight, having this surgery performed is like the “icing on the cake”.

The thigh lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to tighten the skin of the thigh and buttocks and reduce sagging in the inner or outer thigh. The Plastic Surgeon performs this procedure on its own, or in combination with other procedures such as a body contouring.
                              
Frequently Asked Questions About Thigh lift (Thighplasty) Surgery:

Who benefits most from a thigh lift?
If your inner thighs are what you consider large and have a lot of fatty tissue it might be best to do liposuction first to get rid of as much of the excess tissue as possible. After a few months the plastic surgeon can reevaluate your thighs and buttocks to see if you will benefit from a thigh lift.

If the skin on your inner thigh sags or is droopy, a thigh lift is ideal as it will tighten up the skin and smoothen the contour of the inner thigh. Patients who have lost a lot of weight are also ideal candidates for a thigh lift.

How is thigh lift surgery performed?
Thigh lift surgery can be performed under ‘twilight’ anesthesia or general anesthesia. The procedure is performed as an out patient procedure at either Alan Bienstock's Manhattan, New York of Lawrenceville, New Jersey out-patient surgical facility.

Immediately before you thigh lift surgery Doctor Bienstock will mark the patient’s thighs while standing up. The skin is pinched and elevated towards the groin. An estimate is made of how much skin should be removed is made. Dr. Bienstock designs the surgery so the final scar is hidden in the groin crease. Excess skin and fat are removed and the remaining thigh skin is elevated and tightened. Thigh lift surgery is generally well tolerated. Following your surgery, you are advised to rest as much as possible to avoid a lot of leg motion.

What is the recovery period for the thigh lift surgery and what should I expect?
Recuperation for thigh lift surgery is usually 1-2 weeks. Patients should plan to take 7-10 days off from work.

Temporary bruising, swelling, and soreness are to be expected and should improve after 7-10 days. Wearing the elastic garment (similar to spandex shorts) that will be provided to you will minimize the swelling. Your return to work will vary based on the area of the leg treated and the extent of skin removed. You are encouraged to walk the same day of your thigh lift surgery and can return to light activity after a few days. Plan to refrain from driving or working for 10 days to allow for optimal healing and results. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 4 weeks.