Thighplasty

There are three types of thighplasty: inner, bilateral and medial. An inner thighplasty targets the lower part of the inner thigh; a medial thighplasty targets the upper part of the inner thigh; and a bilateral thighplasty targets the front and outside of the thigh.

Inner and medial thighplasties are usually performed on an outpatient basis, but a bilateral one may require a one- or two-night stay in the hospital. Performed under general anesthesia, inner, medial and bilateral thighplasties all require an incision where the thigh and pubic area meet. The medial thighplasty’s incision then extends over the hip and around to the crease in the buttock; the bilateral’s extends downward and around the back of the thigh. In all cases, skin and/or fat is removed; underlying tissue is reshaped and tightened with support sutures; and the remaining skin is lifted and smoothed, and sutured into place at the incision site. Drains may be placed to keep fluid from building up; if so, they are removed after a few days. Surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours. Postsurgery, a compression garment is worn to minimize swelling and promote healing.