A medial thigh lift, also known as an inner thigh lift, is a highly effective procedure for patients struggling with loose, sagging skin along the thighs due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, aging, or genetic predisposition. Excess tissue in this region can not only inhibit a smooth, sleek thigh contour, but it may also cause skin chafing and hygiene issues from the thighs rubbing together. As a key component of our body lifting services, thigh lift surgery is designed to tighten loose skin and tissue along the inner thighs in a circumferential fashion, achieving 360-degree improvement. Renowned Santa Barbara plastic surgeon Wesley Schooler, MD, FACS offers a thigh lift to enhance both comfort and aesthetics for patients affected by skin inelasticity in the thigh region.
What are the Benefits of a Thigh Lift?
A medial thigh lift is one of few procedures that can offer both cosmetic and functional benefits for Santa Barbara patients. Whether you have lost weight naturally, previously undergone bariatric surgery, or you’ve simply developed skin laxity from the natural aging process, a thigh lift can provide:
- Leaner thigh contours
- Elimination of sagging skin, allowing a sleeker and more defined look
- Improved skin tone in the inner thighs
- Less chafing, inflammation, and irritation caused by excess skin rubbing together
For many patients, body lifting procedures like an arm lift and a thigh lift are considered the last step in their weight loss journey and offer a chance to further reclaim confidence. During an initial consultation, Dr. Schooler can show you before-and-after photos of thigh lift surgery outcomes so you can determine whether the procedure — or a more comprehensive post-weight loss treatment plan — is an ideal way to achieve your goals.
How is the Medial Thigh Lift Procedure Performed?
An inner thigh lift is usually performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient setting, meaning you will be able to begin the recovery process at home rather than an overnight stay at a hospital. The procedure can be performed through a vertical incision from the groin to the inner knee, or around the hip and back. Dr. Schooler will evaluate your needs to determine the best approach for your goals. During a thigh lift, the thighs are circumferentially tightened while removing excess, hanging skin. Liposuction may also be performed, if desired, to create a slimmer contour. The result is a more sculpted look in the thighs with less skin chafing and irritation when compared to before surgery.
What Can I Expect From the Thigh Lift Recovery Period?
After a thigh lift, it generally takes 7 to 10 days for patients to return to non-strenuous work, although this timeframe can differ for certain patients based on their treatment plan. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness following the procedure are common and can typically be controlled with over-the-counter medications. Dr. Schooler will give you more detailed information on aftercare and incision care during your appointment. Exercise, aerobic activity, and laborious jobs should be avoided until Dr. Schooler instructs otherwise, usually around four to six weeks.
How Much Does a Thigh Lift Cost?
In Santa Barbara, the cost of a thigh lift is personalized according to each person’s treatment plan and generally depends on multiple factors, including your surgeon’s experience and your geographic location, as well as:
- The surgical technique utilized
- The extent of your concerns
- The complexity of your treatment plan
CareCredit® and ALPHAEON™ Credit are plastic surgery financing options available to help bring the costs of a thigh lift into budget. These companies offer qualified patients the choice to pay for their cosmetic surgery with a flexible payment plan, allowing them to undergo treatment right away while paying over time. If you have questions, our office team would be happy to speak with you about the price of a thigh lift or our payment policies.
Dr. Wesley Schooler is passionate about helping patients who have achieved massive weight loss eliminate the excess skin disrupting their lower body contours. Contact Santa Barbara Plastic Surgery Center today for more information on our post-weight loss body contouring treatments, or if you’re ready to book a consultation.