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Excess skin and fat on the thighs can obscure your natural contours and limit your clothing choices. A thigh lift removes sagging tissue and reshapes the thighs for a sleeker, more proportioned silhouette.

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Refined Thigh Contouring at PSIW

The Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington offers thigh lift surgery for patients seeking to address excess skin, in some cases fat, and loss of definition of their thighs and lower body. Dr. Douglas Forman and Dr. Kathy Huang understand that thigh concerns affect how you look in clothes and how you feel about your body. Schedule a consultation to explore your options and discover how thigh lift can restore the contours you want.

What Is a Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the thighs while tightening underlying tissue. The procedure reshapes the thigh contour, reducing sagging and creating a smoother, more refined appearance. Thigh lift addresses loose skin that develops over time due to aging, genetics, or weight loss. The incisions are strategically placed along the inner thigh and groin area to minimize visible scarring while achieving maximal contouring results.

Thigh Lift Washington, D.C.

Benefits of Thigh Lift

  • Removes loose, sagging skin that resists diet and exercise
  • Creates a smoother, slimmer thigh profile
  • Reduces discomfort from skin rubbing or chafing
  • Tightens and firms the tissue beneath the skin
  • Allows you to wear clothing styles you previously avoided
  • Delivers results that appear natural and proportioned

Your Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Forman or Dr. Huang will examine your thighs, assess skin elasticity and fat distribution, and listen to your goals. They will break down their technique, recovery expectations, and realistic results specific to your anatomy. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and review before-and-after gallery images of previous patients.

How Much Does It Cost?

Thigh lift is a surgical procedure with costs that vary based on the extent of skin and tissue removal needed and whether liposuction is combined. Average costs vary but range between $13,000 - $19,000 depending on the extent of surgery. During your consultation, you'll receive a transparent quote and information about financing options available through PSIW.

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What to Expect During Thigh Lift Surgery


Anesthesia and Incision Placement

You'll receive general anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. Dr. Forman or Dr. Huang will make strategic incisions along the inner thigh and groin crease, where scarring is less visible. In some cases, an incision may extend from the groin toward the knee if additional skin removal is necessary.

Tissue Removal and Tightening

Once excess skin and fat is removed, the surgeon then tightens the underlying tissue for a firm, smooth contour. Dr. Forman and Dr. Huang work carefully to maintain natural proportions and avoid an overdone appearance. The incisions are closed with layered sutures to support healing and minimize scar visibility.

Completion

The procedure typically takes three to four hours, depending on the extent of work. In more extensive cases, such as thigh lift for weight loss, surgery can take longer for patients who may require a vertical incision towards the knee. A compression garment will be provided following surgery to minimize swelling and support healing. The smoother, tighter contours that result from a thigh lift are seen almost immediately, but best results are seen once bruising and swelling subside.

Thigh Lift Recovery

The first two weeks require careful attention to protect the incisions from tension and strain. Avoid sitting and standing for extended periods, and do not cross your legs. Light walking is encouraged to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots. Compression garments support healing and should be worn as directed.

Most patients can return to light office work within two to three weeks, though vigorous activity and exercise should be postponed for four to six weeks. Swelling gradually improves over several months. Numbness or tightness in the thigh is common and typically resolves within weeks to months.

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Thigh Lift Results

Results appear progressively as swelling subsides over the first three to six months. Once healed, the thighs display a smoother, lifted contour with improved definition. Scars fade significantly over time and are well-concealed by undergarments or swimwear. Your new silhouette allows greater freedom in clothing choices and increased confidence in your appearance.

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Complementary Body Procedures

  • Liposuction: Removes stubborn fat and refines thigh contours without excess skin removal.
  • VASER Liposuction: Advanced liposuction that gently extracts fat while preserving surrounding tissue.
  • Avéli for Cellulite: Minimally invasive treatment that targets the structural bands beneath that cause cellulite dimples for smoother-looking thighs and buttocks.
  • Body Lift: Tightens loose skin from the abdomen, waist, hips, and buttocks for a sculpted appearance.
  • Brazilian Butt Lift: Transfers fat to the buttocks to create lift and curves.

Thigh Lift FAQ's

What is the difference between thigh lift and liposuction?

Thigh lift removes excess skin and tightens tissue, making it ideal for loose, sagging skin. Liposuction removes fat without addressing skin laxity. Many patients benefit from combining both procedures for optimal contouring.

How long do thigh lift results last?

Results are long-lasting when you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Weight gain can impact the appearance of the thighs, as can the natural aging process over many years.

Can thigh lift be performed under local anesthesia?

No, thigh lift requires general anesthesia for safety and comfort during surgery. A board-certified anesthesiologist monitors you throughout the procedure.

Is thigh lift painful?

You will experience discomfort rather than severe pain, which is managed with prescribed pain medication and properly worn compression garments. Pain typically decreases significantly after the first week.

Can thigh lift address cellulite?

Thigh lift primarily removes loose skin and tightens tissue. While it may improve the appearance of some cellulite by tightening the skin, it is not specifically designed to treat cellulite. We can discuss cellulite concerns with you during your consultation.

What complications should I be aware of?

As with all surgery, thigh lift carries risks including infection, bleeding, blood clots, and fluid accumulation. Following post-operative instructions carefully minimizes these risks. Dr. Forman and Dr. Huang will discuss all potential complications during your consultation.

How will my results compare to non-surgical treatments?

Non-surgical skin tightening treatments like laser resurfacing or radiofrequency microneedling can improve skin texture and mild laxity but cannot remove excess skin or provide the dramatic contouring that thigh lift delivers. Thigh lift is the most effective option for significant loose skin.

Ready to Reshape Your Thighs

Excess thigh skin should not limit your confidence or wardrobe. At the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington, our board-certified plastic surgeons combine surgical precision with an eye for natural beauty to deliver thighs that match your vision. Contact PSIW today to schedule your private consultation.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Outcomes, risks, and suitability vary from patient to patient.

Thigh Lift Washington, D.C.

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