A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reshapes the thighs by removing excess skin and fat, resulting in smoother skin and better-proportioned contours of the upper legs. It’s especially beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or have excessive loose, sagging skin due to aging or genetics.
SCULPT and DEFINE Your Legs
with a Thigh Lift by Dr. Digenis
SCULPT and DEFINE Your Legs
with a Thigh Lift by Dr. Digenis
A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reshapes the thighs by removing excess skin and fat, resulting in smoother skin and better-proportioned contours of the upper legs. It’s especially beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or have excessive loose, sagging skin due to aging or genetics.
What is a Thigh Lift?
A thigh lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reshape and contour the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. This surgery is especially helpful for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight or who experience sagging skin due to aging or genetics. The goal is to create smoother, firmer thighs that are more proportionate to the rest of the body, improving both appearance and comfort.
What does the procedure entail?
The procedure typically involves an incision along the groin crease, which may extend downward along the inner thigh depending on the amount of excess tissue. Through this incision, Dr. Digenis removes unwanted skin and fat, then lifts and tightens the remaining tissue. Liposuction is often combined to further refine the leg contours. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes between two and four hours.To learn what a thigh lift can do for you, contact Dr. Digenis to request a consultation or call our office at 502-589-5544. Dr. Digenis is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 30 plus years of experience and expertise in numerous cosmetic procedures.
Benefits of a Thigh Lift with Dr. Alexander Digenis
A thigh lift offers significant psychological and physical benefits. Physically, it removes excess skin and fat, improving mobility, comfort, and hygiene—especially in cases where sagging skin causes chafing, irritation, or limits clothing choices. Patients often find it easier to exercise and move confidently. Psychologically, the procedure can boost self-esteem and body image, particularly after major weight loss or aging-related changes. Many individuals feel more confident in their appearance and experience a renewed sense of pride and freedom in their bodies.
Who is a candidate for a Thigh Lift?
Good candidates for a thigh lift are individuals with excessive loose or sagging thigh skin that have not responded to diet and exercise, are at a stable weight, and are in good overall health. Non-smokers with realistic expectations are ideal, as the procedure does involve visible scarring, though many patients find the improved contour and confidence well worth it.
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What to Expect after a Thigh Lift
Recovery from a thigh lift generally involves one to two weeks of rest, during which patients wear compression garments to reduce swelling and support healing. Some bruising, swelling, and soreness are expected but usually subside over time. Most people can resume light activities within a couple of weeks and return to full activity in about four to six weeks, although final results continue to improve over several months.
Immediately After
You’ll wake up with compression garments on your thighs to minimize swelling and support the new contours. There may be some discomfort, tightness, and grogginess from anesthesia. Drainage tubes may be placed to prevent fluid buildup, and you’ll need help moving around initially. Pain is typically managed with prescription medication.
First Week after Surgery
Swelling, bruising, and soreness are common during the first week. You’ll need to rest, limit leg movement, and avoid sitting for long periods to reduce pressure on the incisions. Walking short distances is encouraged to promote circulation, but you should avoid stairs and strenuous activity. Most patients feel well enough to move around more independently by the end of the week.
Next Few Weeks after Surgery
Swelling and bruising begin to fade, and discomfort significantly improves. Stitches or drains (if used) are usually removed. You can gradually increase light activities, but still must avoid exercise, bending, or lifting. The incisions will start to heal more fully, and you will continue to see Dr. Digenis for follow up appointments. Compression garments are usually still worn daily during this period.
Thigh Lift FAQ
Click a question below to see the answer for some of the most common questions we receive from potential clients.
The results of a thigh lift are generally long-lasting, but not entirely permanent. The excess skin and fat that are removed during surgery will not return, and the improved contour can be maintained for many years—especially if you maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle.
However, it’s important to note that the natural aging process continues, which means that over time, skin may gradually lose some firmness. Significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy can also impact the results. With good care, though, most patients enjoy their improved thigh shape and increased confidence for many years following the procedure.
The ideal candidate:
- Has loose or sagging skin on the thighs, often due to significant weight loss, aging, or genetics.
- Is at or near a stable, healthy weight, with no major fluctuations expected.
- Is in good overall health, without medical conditions that could impair healing.
- Does not smoke, or is willing to quit temporarily before and after surgery to support recovery.
- Has realistic expectations, understanding the benefits, risks, and potential for scarring.
You can typically resume light exercise about 4 to 6 weeks after a thigh lift, depending on how your healing progresses. Gentle walking is encouraged early on to promote circulation, but strenuous activities—like running, weightlifting, squats, or leg-focused workouts—should be avoided until your surgeon gives the go-ahead. Returning too soon can strain the incisions and compromise results. Always follow Dr. Digenis’ specific guidance, as he will clear you based on your individual recovery.
The average age of individuals undergoing thigh lifts typically falls between 40 and 60 years old, though the procedure is performed on adults of various ages. Many patients in this range seek surgery due to age-related skin laxity if they experience loose skin from weight fluctuations or genetics. Overall, candidacy is more about skin quality and body goals than a specific age.
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