Thigh lift surgery, medically known as thighplasty, surgically removes excess skin and fat from the inner or outer thighs while tightening and reshaping the underlying tissue to create smoother, firmer, more proportionate leg contours. This body contouring procedure offers a lasting solution for individuals struggling with sagging thigh skin caused by significant weight loss, aging, or genetics—concerns that diet and exercise simply cannot address.
Dr. Beth Collins at The Collins Center approaches each thigh lift with meticulous attention to detail, drawing on her elite surgical education and years of experience performing complex body contouring procedures throughout Connecticut. Her surgical philosophy centers on creating results that look authentically natural while prioritizing patient safety and satisfaction, helping you achieve the confident, balanced silhouette you’ve been working toward.
Before / After Gallery
Thigh lift transformations reveal dramatically improved leg contours, with tighter, smoother skin that enhances your overall body proportions and restores a more youthful appearance. These results demonstrate how strategic skin removal and tissue tightening can eliminate the discomfort of skin chafing while creating sleek, toned-looking thighs that complement your lifestyle. Dr. Collins designs each surgical approach to match your unique anatomy, aesthetic preferences, and the specific areas where excess tissue has accumulated.
Treatable Areas:
- Inner thighs (medial thigh lift)
- Outer thighs (lateral thigh lift)
- Upper thigh region near the groin and buttock crease
- Lower thigh extending toward the knee
- Circumferential thigh (360-degree contouring)
- Areas with skin laxity following massive weight loss
- Regions with stubborn fat deposits when combined with liposuction
How Thigh Lift Works
Thigh lift surgery removes loose, sagging skin and reshapes the remaining tissue for a smoother leg contour. Dr. Collins chooses a technique based on the location of excess skin. Medial thigh lifts (inner thigh) involve an incision along the groin crease, while lateral thigh lifts (outer thigh) have discreetly placed incisions. For extensive correction after significant weight loss, a circumferential approach addresses the entire thigh in one operation.
The surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours under general anesthesia. Dr. Collins makes incisions following natural body lines, removes specific amounts of excess tissue, and strengthens the underlying structures. She may also use liposuction for improved results and to lower complication risks. Studies show that combining liposuction with a thigh lift improves outcomes and reduces complications compared to just removing skin. The remaining skin is carefully stitched into its new position, minimizing scarring. You’ll need to wear compression garments afterward to aid healing and shape your final contours.
Whether you need surgical precision, metabolic wellness, or non-surgical refinement, we look at the big picture. Let’s design a unified treatment plan that addresses your health and beauty under one roof.
Results You’ll Love
- Dramatically smoother, tighter thigh skin
- Elimination of uncomfortable skin chafing and irritation
- More toned, youthful-looking leg contours
- Better-fitting clothing, especially pants, shorts, and swimwear
- Enhanced body proportions that complement your overall figure
- Improved mobility and comfort during physical activities
- Increased confidence to participate in social and athletic activities
- Long-lasting results when maintained through stable weight management
Are You a Candidate for Thigh Lift?
- You have excess, loose skin on your inner or outer thighs
- You’ve lost significant weight and reached a stable, maintainable weight
- You experience skin chafing, rashes, or discomfort between your thighs
- Exercise and diet haven’t improved your thigh contour concerns
- You’re in good overall health without conditions that impair healing
- You understand that visible scarring is part of the trade-off for improved contours
- You don’t smoke or are willing to quit well before your procedure
- You maintain realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve
Why Choose The Collins Center
- Specialized body contouring expertise – Dr. Collins pursued advanced fellowship training specifically in body procedures, positioning her among Connecticut’s most skilled surgeons for complex reshaping operations
- Dual surgical board certifications – Her certifications from both the American Board of Surgery and American Board of Plastic Surgery reflect comprehensive training through Emory University’s prestigious program
- Extensive surgical experience spanning 25+ years – More than two decades of focused practice has refined Dr. Collins’ surgical judgment and technical precision
- Evidence-based treatment approach – Every procedure recommendation stems from established medical research rather than unproven trends, ensuring safe, predictable outcomes
- Compassionate, personal perspective – Dr. Collins’ own experiences as both a breast cancer survivor and cosmetic surgery patient inform her empathetic approach to understanding your concerns and goals.
FAQs about Thigh Lift
How long does thigh lift recovery take?
Initial healing requires approximately 2 to 3 weeks, during which you’ll need to limit physical activity and arrange assistance with daily tasks. Most patients return to work within 2 to 3 weeks and resume normal activities by 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery. Complete healing with final results emerging takes approximately 3 to 6 months as residual swelling resolves and incision lines mature.
What type of scarring should I expect?
Thigh lift incisions create permanent scars, but their placement follows your body’s natural creases where they’re easily concealed by underwear and swimwear. Medial thigh lift scars typically run along the groin crease and may extend toward the buttock fold, while staying well-hidden when standing or sitting. Scars gradually fade from red to pale over 12 to 24 months and can be further improved with proper scar care protocols.
Can liposuction be combined with a thigh lift?
Yes, combining liposuction with thigh lift is not only common but actually reduces complication rates while enhancing your aesthetic results. Research demonstrates that incorporating liposuction decreases overall complications from approximately 70% to 37%. This combined approach allows for more comprehensive contouring by addressing both excess skin and stubborn fat deposits simultaneously.
When will I see my final thigh lift results?
You’ll notice immediate improvement despite initial swelling, but your final outcome becomes apparent after 3 to 6 months once all swelling subsides completely. The majority of swelling resolves within the first 3 to 4 months, progressively revealing your enhanced thigh contours. Scars continue improving for up to 2 years as they mature and fade.
How long do thigh lift results last?
Results are designed to be permanent, particularly the skin removal aspect of the procedure. However, maintaining stable weight through healthy lifestyle choices is essential for preserving your outcomes long-term. Significant weight fluctuations can compromise your results, so thigh lift is best performed after you’ve achieved and stabilized at your goal weight.
Will I need surgical drains after thigh lift?
Drain placement depends on your specific procedure and Dr. Collins’ surgical technique. Some surgeons routinely use drains to prevent fluid accumulation, while others employ advanced closure methods that allow drainless procedures. When used, drains typically remain in place for 1 to 2 weeks and are removed once drainage decreases to acceptable levels.
Can I combine thigh lift with other body contouring procedures?
Thigh lifts are often combined with tummy tucks, arm lifts, or body lifts to address multiple areas affected by weight loss. Combining procedures means a single recovery period and can lead to better overall results. During your consultation, Dr. Collins will assess your health and goals to find the safest and most effective combination for you.
More Confident Legs?
Contact The Collins Center today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Collins and learn how thigh lift surgery can help you achieve the sleek, proportionate leg contours you deserve.
