Overview
Thigh lift surgery is a cosmetic procedure designed to tighten the skin on the thighs and correct excess skin, most commonly on the inner thighs. This sagging may occur:
- as the skin ages
- after significant weight loss
- after bariatric surgery
- after repeated weight fluctuations
- or depending on individual skin type
When the skin is too stretched to retract on its own, surgery is the most effective way to improve the contour of the thighs.
In Paris, Dr. Alexandre Vairinho offers personalized care following a comprehensive morphological analysis.
Explanation of the technique
Cruroplasty, also known as a thigh lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to correct sagging skin on the inner thighs. Over time, following significant weight loss or fluctuations in weight, the skin can lose its elasticity and develop excess skin that may be visible when walking or in certain positions.
When the skin no longer has sufficient elasticity, non-surgical treatments are generally unable to effectively correct this excess skin. Cruroplasty allows for the removal of excess skin and the tightening of the underlying tissues, thereby improving the contour of the thigh and the overall harmony of the silhouette.
The goal of the procedure is to achieve firmer, more shapely thighs that are better proportioned to the rest of the body, while respecting the patient’s natural body shape.
Principles of a thigh lift
A thigh lift involves several surgical procedures that can be combined depending on the extent of skin laxity and the presence of excess fat.
The intervention may include, among other things:
- the removal of excess skin on the inner thigh
- skin tightening, which helps correct a sagging appearance
- additional liposuction, when excess fat is also present
- reshaping the contours of the thighs to improve the silhouette
The surgical strategy depends on several factors:
- the extent of skin laxity
- skin health
- the presence of localized fat deposits
- the patient's overall physique
The goal is to achieve a natural and harmonious result by improving the contour of the thighs while maintaining the overall balance of the figure.
Location of scars
Like any surgery designed to remove excess skin, cruroplasty results in scarring, the location of which depends on the extent of skin laxity.
There are two main types of scars to consider:
- Horizontal scar in the groin
In mild cases, the scar may be limited to the groin crease. It is usually hidden within the natural crease of the groin and helps correct moderate excess skin on the inner thighs.
- Internal vertical scar
When there is significant skin laxity, a vertical incision on the inner thigh may be necessary. This allows for the removal of a larger amount of skin and achieves better tissue tightening.
The choice of technique and scar pattern is determined during the consultation, based on the patient’s anatomy and the desired outcome.
As with any surgical scar, these gradually fade over time, although they remain permanent. How they heal depends largely on the condition of the skin and post-operative care.
Overview of the procedure
The process for a thigh lift (cruroplasty) begins with a specialized consultation to assess the shape of the thighs and the extent of skin laxity.
During this consultation, a clinical examination is performed to assess skin quality, the extent of excess skin, and the possible presence of associated excess fat. This evaluation helps determine the most appropriate surgical technique and establish realistic goals for the procedure.
You will receive detailed medical information and a personalized quote, in accordance with the legal cooling-off period. Medical photographs may be taken to facilitate preoperative analysis and monitoring of results.
Before the procedure, a preoperative evaluation is ordered and a consultation with the anesthesiologist is scheduled.
A thigh lift is performed in a clinic, usually under general anesthesia, though local anesthesia with sedation may be used in some cases. The procedure involves removing excess skin from the inner thighs to tighten the tissues and improve the contour of the legs. When necessary, liposuction may be performed in conjunction with the procedure to refine the shape of the thighs.
The procedure typically lasts between 1h30 and 2h30 hours, depending on the extent of skin laxity and the procedures involved. Patients are usually discharged the same day or kept overnight for observation.
Postoperative Care and Expected Results
After the procedure, a period of gradual recovery is necessary. In the first few days following surgery, it is common to experience:
- swelling of the thighs
- bruises
- a feeling of tension
- discomfort when walking at first
- temporary fatiguetemporary fatigue
A compression garment may be prescribed for several weeks to aid in healing and optimize skin retraction.
Activities are gradually resuming :
- gentle walking: start early and recommended
- sedentary work: generally after 10 to 15 days
- Sports activities: usually after 4 to 6 weeks
Regular post-operative follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and the progress of the results.
Thigh lift surgery helps achieve firmer, more shapely thighs that are better proportioned to the rest of the body. The expected benefits include:
- reduction in sagging skin
- improved thigh contour
- reduction of internal friction
- greater ease in choosing clothes
- improved aesthetic appeal
The results gradually improve in the months following the procedure, as swelling subsides and the tissues soften. Maintaining a stable weight helps ensure long-lasting results.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Thigh Reduction Surgery
No. This is a skin tightening procedure. Liposuction may be performed in conjunction with the procedure to reduce localized fat deposits if necessary.
Scars are placed in areas that are as inconspicuous as possible (the groin crease and/or the inner thigh). Their extent depends on the degree of sagging.
Yes, liposuction is often performed in conjunction with this procedure when there is excess fat in addition to sagging skin.
Yes, provided that your weight remains stable and the tissues undergo natural aging.
It is generally possible to resume sports activities after about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how you recover and your post-operative recommendations.
>> This page is intended to provide general information. Only a consultation with Dr. Vairinho will allow for an accurate assessment of your situation and the recommendation of an appropriate treatment plan. A personalized quote is provided only during a consultation.
