Thigh lift surgery (thighplasty) removes excess skin and fat to create smoother, firmer, more proportionate thighs. If weight loss, aging, or genetics have left you with sagging skin that diet and exercise can't fix, a thigh lift can restore the contoured legs you deserve.
Schedule Consultation View ResultsA thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a body contouring procedure that reshapes the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. The surgery tightens loose, sagging tissue to create smoother skin and better-proportioned contours of the thighs and lower body.
When significant weight loss, aging, or genetics cause the skin to lose elasticity and hang loosely, no amount of exercise can tighten it back. A thigh lift addresses what the gym cannot—removing the excess skin and sculpting the remaining tissue around the muscle for natural, graceful leg contours.
Excess skin on the thighs can develop from several factors—and once the skin loses elasticity, it won't bounce back on its own.
Dramatic weight loss (50+ lbs) stretches skin beyond its ability to retract naturally.
After gastric bypass or sleeve, rapid weight loss often leaves significant excess skin.
Natural collagen loss causes skin to thin and sag over time, especially in the inner thighs.
Some people are predisposed to carrying excess skin and fat in the thigh area regardless of weight.
Different thigh lift techniques address different areas and degrees of concern. Your procedure is customized based on where you have excess skin and how much needs to be removed.
The most common technique. Addresses loose skin on the inner thighs through an incision in the groin crease that extends toward the buttock.
A less invasive option for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity limited to the upper inner thigh area.
For extensive inner thigh laxity extending toward the knee. Creates a vertical scar along the inner thigh.
Targets "saddlebags" and excess skin on the outer thighs. Incision runs from groin to hip.
Addresses sagging skin on the back of the thighs. Incision placed under the buttock crease.
The most comprehensive approach, addressing front, back, inner, and outer thighs in one procedure.
A thigh lift provides both aesthetic and functional improvements that can significantly enhance quality of life.
Tighter, firmer thighs with better proportions to your overall body shape.
Pants, shorts, and swimwear fit more comfortably without bunching or pulling.
No more painful skin-on-skin friction when walking or exercising.
Exercise and physical activities become more comfortable without excess skin.
Skin folds that trap moisture and cause irritation or rash are eliminated.
Feel comfortable showing your legs in shorts, skirts, and swimwear again.
Understanding which procedure is right for you depends on whether your concern is excess fat, excess skin, or both.
Removes loose, sagging skin and tightens remaining tissue. Essential when skin has lost elasticity.
Removes stubborn fat deposits through small incisions. Works best when skin has good elasticity.
Many patients benefit from combining both procedures—liposuction to remove fat and a thigh lift to tighten skin—for optimal results.
After losing 100 pounds, I had so much loose skin. Dr. Neavin gave me back legs I never thought I'd have. I can finally wear shorts again.
Thigh Lift Patient
"A thigh lift is about proportion and balance. The goal isn't just removing skin—it's creating thighs that look natural and complement your overall figure."
Thigh lift surgery requires meticulous technique to achieve smooth contours while keeping scars as inconspicuous as possible. The inner thigh skin is thin and tension on the closure must be carefully managed to prevent scar widening or migration.
I take a customized approach based on where your excess skin is located and how much needs to be removed. For many patients, this means combining techniques or staging procedures for optimal results. I also frequently perform thigh lifts as part of comprehensive post-weight loss body contouring.
Here's what to expect from consultation through recovery.
I'll evaluate your thighs to determine where excess skin is located, assess skin quality, and understand your goals. We'll discuss which type of thigh lift is best for your situation, whether liposuction should be combined, and if staging procedures would give better results. You should be at a stable weight for at least 6 months before surgery.
Thigh lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes 2-4 hours depending on the technique. Incisions are placed in natural creases where possible. Excess skin is removed, underlying tissue is tightened, and if needed, liposuction is performed. The remaining skin is redraped and closed with dissolving sutures. Drains may be placed.
You'll go home the same day (or stay one night at an aftercare facility). A compression garment is worn to minimize swelling. Drains, if placed, are typically removed within a few days. You'll need to avoid sitting directly on incisions and keep legs slightly bent to reduce tension on the wounds. Walking is encouraged to promote circulation.
Most patients return to desk work in 2-3 weeks. Compression garments are worn for 4-6 weeks. Exercise resumes at 6 weeks. Results are visible immediately, but final contours emerge over 3-6 months as swelling fully resolves. With stable weight, results are long-lasting.
What to expect in the weeks after your thigh lift procedure.
Swelling, bruising. Drains removed. Walk gently. Keep legs elevated and slightly bent.
Most return to desk jobs. Continue compression garment. Avoid strenuous activity.
Swelling subsides significantly. Light exercise OK. Scars beginning to fade.
Full activity resumed. Swelling fully resolved. Scars continue maturing for 1 year.
All thigh lifts result in scars—this is unavoidable. However, strategic incision placement minimizes their visibility.
The trade-off with a thigh lift is accepting scars in exchange for eliminating excess skin. I place incisions in natural creases and concealed areas wherever possible, and use techniques that minimize tension on the wound to help scars heal as flat and narrow as possible.
Scars are typically red or pink initially and gradually fade over 12-18 months. Silicone sheets, scar gels, and massage can further improve their appearance. Most patients find that the freedom from loose, sagging skin far outweighs concern about the scars.
During your consultation, I'll show you exactly where incisions will be placed for your specific procedure so you can make an informed decision.
Thigh lifts are frequently performed alongside other body contouring procedures, especially after significant weight loss.
Addresses thighs, buttocks, and lower abdomen in one circumferential procedure.
Tightens abdominal skin while thigh lift addresses the legs for complete lower body contouring.
Lifts sagging buttocks while posterior thigh lift addresses back of thighs.
Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time compared to staging them separately. We'll discuss the safest, most effective approach for your goals.
Thigh lift surgery can benefit anyone with excess thigh skin that causes cosmetic or functional concerns.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and learn which thigh lift technique is right for you.
Schedule Consultation (310) 858-8811