A thigh lift is a form of cosmetic surgery designed to remove excess and loose thigh lift is a form of cosmetic surgeryskin from the thigh as well as the buttocks. The procedure is most suited for those who have lost a significant amount of weight through a weight reduction program and have been left with excess and loose skin. Removal of the excess skin improves the overall appearance of the thighs by making it look more contoured and less dimpled with cellulite.

An incision is made in either the inside or outside of the upper thigh. The number of incisions will depend upon the amount of skin that needs to be removed. These incisions generally run along the side of the groin or beneath the buttocks. Scarring depends upon the ability of the skin to recover, but however the thighs will look thinner, firmer and more attractive.

The procedure is done under general anesthesia or a combination of Local or Spinal anesthesia with a medicine to sleep. The procedure takes about 2 to 3 hours and is greatly dependant on the amount of skin that needs to be removed. Though this is an outpatient procedure, patients prefer hospital stay for a day or so. Special supportive garments are to be worn after the surgery for a couple of weeks. This helps reduce discomfort and swelling while also supporting a better healing process.

As is the case with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks involved with thigh lift surgery. Risks that are specifically associated with thigh lift surgery include:

▣ Blood clots in the legs, which is a rare complication that can be further minimized by wearing leg stockings following the surgery
▣ "Tightness" in the thighs, which is a feeling that generally subsides after the wounds heal
▣ Feeling unhappy with the results, which may occur if too little skin is removed or if scarring is excessive or easily noticeable
▣ Prolonged numbness in the thighs and legs
▣ Fluid collection in the incision area that will need to be aspired

Although there are some risks associated with thigh lift procedures, the risks are rare and can be addressed with subsequent surgeries if they occur. Therefore, most people feel that the benefit of removing the excess skin from the thighs far outweighs the potential risks.