Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)
A thigh lift — also called thighplasty — removes excess skin and fat from the thighs to create a smoother, firmer thigh contour. Loose thigh skin is particularly common after significant weight loss and with age-related loss of skin elasticity. It can cause chafing and skin irritation from inner thigh rubbing, restrict clothing choices, and create significant self-consciousness.
Dr. Rafizadeh evaluates each patient individually to determine whether liposuction alone, skin excision, or a combination of both is the most appropriate approach for their thigh anatomy. As with arm and abdominal surgery, the key factor is skin quality — patients with tight, elastic skin are candidates for liposuction alone, while those with significant skin redundancy require skin excision for the best result.
“Rahabilitation Rafizadeh combine several techniques including fat grafting (liposculpture) to achieve the ultimate in body sculpting. His methods combine the use of fat to enhance features. Here again, his artistic sensibility and experience guide him to achieve exceptional plastic surgery results in New Jersey.” — betterplasticsurgery.com
Inner Thigh (Medial) Lift
The medial thigh lift addresses loose skin and fat on the inner thighs — the most commonly treated area. The incision is placed in the groin crease where it meets the inner thigh, making the scar largely hidden in normal daily life. In patients with significant skin excess extending down the thigh, the incision may extend vertically down the inner thigh to allow sufficient skin removal. Liposuction of the inner thigh is typically combined with the lift for a comprehensive result.
Outer Thigh (Lateral) Lift
The lateral thigh lift addresses loose skin on the outer thighs and buttocks. The incision is placed at the hip in a position that can be concealed by a swimsuit or underwear. This approach is particularly effective for patients who have had significant weight loss affecting the outer thighs, flanks, and buttocks. It can be performed as part of a lower body lift or an extended tummy tuck that addresses the front and sides of the body simultaneously.
Combination with Tummy Tuck and Liposuction
The thigh lift is commonly combined with a tummy tuck, arm lift, and liposuction as part of a comprehensive post-weight-loss body contouring plan. These procedures can sometimes be staged or combined depending on the patient's overall health, the extent of correction needed, and recovery considerations. Dr. Rafizadeh evaluates the safest and most efficient approach for each patient during consultation.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–5: Swelling, soreness, and tightness in the thighs. Compression garments worn. Walking is encouraged but with care.
Week 1–2: Most patients return to light activity and desk work. Sitting requires care to avoid tension on the inner thigh incision.
Weeks 3–6: Return to most normal activities and light exercise.
Months 1–6: Scars continue to mature and fade. Final thigh contour becomes apparent.
