Dr. Steely will perform Your Thigh Lift at his surgery center or First Surgical Hospital in Houston, TX.
A thigh lift, also known as thigh contouring, is an effective procedure to enhance the shape and firmness of your thighs. Dr. Robert Lee Steely, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston, TX, specializes in thigh lift surgery and helps patients achieve smoother, more defined thighs.
What Is a Thigh Lift?
A thigh lift is a cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the thighs. It reshapes the thighs to improve their contour and tone, making them look smoother and firmer. This procedure is ideal for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, aging, or sagging skin, particularly in the inner thigh area.
Why Thigh Lift Surgery?
A thigh lift elevates, tightens, and smooths the upper thigh using several methods, depending on the desired outcome. Usually coupled with liposuction for sculpting, thigh lifting requires incisions that vary depending on the areas of laxity. Houston Plastic Surgeon Robert Lee Steely, MD, is an expert in choosing which lifting procedure is best for you.
Benefits of Thigh Lifts
A thigh lift offers several benefits, including:
- Improved Thigh Contour: This procedure removes excess skin and fat, leaving the thighs smoother and firmer.
- Enhanced Confidence: Many patients feel comfortable wearing form-fitting clothing and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Long-lasting Results: The results of a thigh lift are long-lasting, mainly if you maintain a stable weight.
Who is a good candidate for the thigh lift procedure?
You may be a good candidate for a thigh lift if:
- EYou’ve experienced dramatic weight loss and stabilized your weight.
- EYou are healthy without any medical conditions that may impair healing or increase the risk of surgery.
- EYou are committed to a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and fitness activities.
What to Expect During a Thigh Lift
During a thigh lift, Dr. Steely will make incisions along the chosen area, extending downward based on the amount of excess skin. Through these incisions, he will remove fat and skin, reshape the underlying tissue, and tighten the skin for smoother contours. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take two to three hours, depending on the complexity.
Incisions
Medial Thigh Lifting
- Crescent lift incision: This incision tightens the upper third of the thigh and is usually hidden in the groin crease. While this is the most cosmetically appealing of the medial thigh lift incisions, it does little to help with the mid or lower thigh laxity.
- Vertical thigh lift incision: This is an incision of varying length along the inside of the thigh. While harder to hide with short skirts and shorts, this incision allows for tightening the length of the inner thigh to the knee.
Lateral Thigh Lifting
This involves an incision made along the outer thigh and hip area, typically placed discreetly within the natural curve of the underwear line. Lateral thigh lifting is used to reshape and contour the outer thigh, hip, and upper buttock.
Recovering From a Thigh Lift
After your thigh lift procedure, you can expect some swelling and bruising, which will gradually subside over a few weeks. We at Steely Plastic Surgery will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including wearing a compression garment to minimize swelling and support healing. Most patients can resume light activities within 10 to 14 days, though we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for at least six weeks.
How Much is a Thigh Lift Surgery?
The cost of a thigh lift in Houston, TX, varies depending on the extent of the surgery and additional factors such as anesthesia fees and facility charges. Dr. Steely will provide a personalized cost estimate during your consultation. In general, the procedure ranges from $7,000 to $18,000. Insurance typically does not cover thigh lift surgery.
Contact Our Office for a Thigh Lift in Houston
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Lee Steely will happily walk you through the entire process and answer any questions you have. He will then work with you to create a personalized plan to achieve your body goals.
Contact Dr. Steely today to begin your journey toward smoother, firmer thighs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the results of a thigh lift last?
Thigh lift results are long-lasting, especially if you maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. While natural aging will continue, the improvement in thigh contour is permanent.
Will there be visible scars after the surgery?
Yes, thigh lift surgery will result in scars; however, Dr. Steely places incisions in areas that can be hidden by most clothing. Over time, scars will fade and become less noticeable.
How soon can I exercise after my thigh lift?
Most patients can return to light activities within two to three weeks, but you should wait at least six weeks before strenuous exercise. Dr. Steely will provide specific guidelines based on your recovery.
Can a thigh lift be combined with other procedures like liposuction or a tummy tuck?
A thigh lift can be combined with other body contouring procedures, such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, to achieve more comprehensive results. Dr. Steely will discuss your options during your consultation.