Is a Thigh Lift Painful?

The procedure itself is pain-free due to general anesthesia. Post-surgery, it is common to experience some soreness, swelling, and bruising in the treated area. Following post-operative care instructions, including taking prescribed medications and wearing compression garments, will help alleviate discomfort and support healing.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Expect to have your first follow-up within the first week of surgery. Beyond that, Dr. Chopra will let you know when they would like to see you.

How Long Until I See Results?

It typically takes several months to see the full results of a thigh lift. Swelling will gradually subside, and the contour of your thighs will improve as healing progresses. Most patients see noticeable changes within 6 months after surgery. The scars from the surgery will fade over time, although they may not disappear completely. With proper care, you can expect long-lasting results, but age and weight fluctuations may impact the appearance of your thighs in the future.

Can I Combine a Thigh Lift With Other Procedures?

Yes, many patients choose to combine a thigh lift in Fairfax with other cosmetic procedures, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction . Dr. Chopra will discuss the possibility of combining procedures based on your individual goals and health status.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Thigh Lift?

While thighplasty is a generally safe procedure, some potential risks are associated with it. Your surgeon, Dr. Chopra, will discuss these risks with you during your consultation to help you make an informed decision. Some of these risks include: Bleeding and infection Scarring (though scars are usually minimal and fade over time) Skin discoloration Asymmetry (one thigh may appear slightly different from the other) Fluid accumulation Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) Loss of skin elasticity Heart or lung complications (rare) If you experience these or any other unfavorable and long-lasting reactions, please contact us at Chopra Cosmetic Surgery immediately.

Fairfax, VA | Washington, D.C.

Thigh Lift

Introduction

Introduction to Thigh Lift

Thighplasty, commonly known as a thigh lift, is a popular cosmetic procedure that helps reshape the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. Whether it’s due to weight loss, aging, or genetic factors, many people experience sagging or loose skin around their thighs, which can make them feel self-conscious. Thighplasty can address these concerns and help you achieve smoother, more contoured legs. If you are interested in learning more about a thigh lift in Washington, D.C., schedule a consultation with award-winning plastic surgeon Dr. Vinod Chopra at Chopra Cosmetic Surgery. Please read below for more information.

Chopra Cosmetic Surgery is located in Fairfax, VA, within the Washington, DC metro area, and a short distance from Arlington, VA, McLean, VA, Tyson’s Corner, VA, Chantilly, VA, and Ashburn, VA.

What is a Thigh Lift?

Thighplasty, or thigh lift surgery, is an invasive cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the thighs. The surgery aims to improve the appearance of the thighs by creating a smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking contour. It is especially beneficial for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with sagging skin or those dealing with the effects of aging.

This procedure is also a great option for those who feel uncomfortable wearing shorts, swimsuits, or jeans due to the appearance of their thighs. Depending on individual needs, the surgery can be tailored to target specific areas of the thigh.

A woman lays over an arm chair, while wearing a long sleeve button up cuffed at the elbows. Her eyes are closed as she rests both her hands behind her head. - Thigh Lift in Fairfax, VA

Types of Thighplasty Procedures

Different types of thighplasty are designed to address specific concerns with the thighs. Your surgeon will help determine the most suitable option based on your needs and goals.

The medial thigh lift is the most common form of thighplasty. It focuses on the inner thighs, where excess skin and fat often accumulate. This procedure typically involves an incision from the groin down toward the knee or the back of the thigh.

A mini thigh lift is a less invasive option. It involves fewer incisions, usually only in the groin area, and is ideal for addressing sagging in the upper inner thigh region. This is a great option for patients with minimal excess skin.

An outer thigh lift targets the outer portions of the thighs. The procedure involves an incision that starts at the groin and extends outward to the hip and lower back area. This type of lift is helpful for those looking to reshape the outer thigh area.

A vertical thigh lift may be recommended for individuals with significant excess skin in all areas of the thighs. This procedure requires larger incisions that extend down to the knees. While it offers comprehensive results, it also carries a higher risk of complications.

In cases where there is poor skin elasticity, liposuction may be combined with thighplasty to remove excess fat and help tighten the skin. This approach can provide smoother results in areas where the skin might not be as firm.

- The medial thigh lift is the most common form of thighplasty. It focuses on the inner thighs, where excess skin and fat often accumulate. This procedure typically involves an incision from the groin down toward the knee or the back of the thigh.
- A mini thigh lift is a less invasive option. It involves fewer incisions, usually only in the groin area, and is ideal for addressing sagging in the upper inner thigh region. This is a great option for patients with minimal excess skin.
- An outer thigh lift targets the outer portions of the thighs. The procedure involves an incision that starts at the groin and extends outward to the hip and lower back area. This type of lift is helpful for those looking to reshape the outer thigh area.
- A vertical thigh lift may be recommended for individuals with significant excess skin in all areas of the thighs. This procedure requires larger incisions that extend down to the knees. While it offers comprehensive results, it also carries a higher risk of complications.
- In cases where there is poor skin elasticity, liposuction may be combined with thighplasty to remove excess fat and help tighten the skin. This approach can provide smoother results in areas where the skin might not be as firm.

Thighplasty After Weight Loss

Thighplasty After Weight Loss Through GLP-1 Medications
In recent years, medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro) have become increasingly popular for weight loss. These medications help people lose weight by reducing appetite and regulating blood sugar levels. However, while these medications can lead to significant weight loss, they may also cause loose or sagging skin in areas like the thighs, abdomen, and arms.

Thighplasty is often sought after significant weight loss through GLP-1 medications, especially for patients who are left with excess, sagging skin. This procedure helps remove the extra skin, providing smoother contours and a more toned appearance. It is important to note that you should be at a stable weight for at least 6 months before undergoing thighplasty, as fluctuations in weight can affect the results of the surgery.

During a consultation, Dr. Chopra will assess your needs and determine the best approach to achieve your desired results after weight loss. For those who have lost a substantial amount of weight through GLP-1 medications, thighplasty can be a transformative procedure to complement the weight loss journey.

What Are the Benefits of a Thigh Lift?

Our patients who have received a thigh lift in Washington, D.C. have reported some of the following benefits:

Fold and crease elimination
Smoothing of wrinkles
Firmer back of thighs
Banished cellulite
The overall contour and proportions improved
Boost in self-confidence
Better clothing fit
Enhanced mobility and posture
Fewer skin rashes and irritation
Increased hygiene

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Thigh Lift?

The best candidate for a thigh lift in Washington, D.C. would have some of the following characteristics:

Desires more youthful lower body contours
Experience reduced mobility due to heavy thighs
Experiences skin irritation due to heavy thighs
No smoking
No underlying medical condition
Realistic expectations
Wants to get rid of excess fat
Wants to get rid of excess skin folds after weight loss

What’s the First Step?

Before your thighplasty in Washington, D.C., you’ll undergo a consultation with your surgeon, Dr. Chopra, who will evaluate your health and discuss your goals for the procedure. You may be instructed to stop taking certain medications that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs. A medical evaluation may also be required to ensure you are fit for surgery.

What to Expect On the Day of Thigh Lift Surgery

Thighplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure usually lasts about 2–3 hours.

Once you are sedated, Dr. Chopra will make incisions based on the type of thigh lift you have chosen. The excess skin and fat will then be removed, and the remaining skin will be tightened before sutures are placed to close the incisions.

Thigh Lift Recovery

After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area to wake up from anesthesia. Dressings or bandages may be applied to the incisions, and small tubes may be placed temporarily to drain excess fluids. During recovery, you may experience some pain, bruising, and swelling, but these symptoms typically improve after a few days.

To ensure proper healing, following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions is essential. You’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least six weeks. Most patients can return to normal daily activities after four to six weeks.

How Much Does a Thigh Lift Cost in Washington, D.C.?

The cost of a Thigh Lift at Chopra Cosmetic Surgery in Washington, D.C., and Fairfax, VA, can vary depending on factors such as the type of procedure, the surgeon’s expertise, and your location. Discussing the costs upfront during your consultation with Dr. Chopra is important.

Why Choose Dr. Chopra?

Dr. Chopra is an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic procedures, including thigh lifts, at Chopra Cosmetic Surgery in Fairfax, VA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality care and helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals.

At Chopra Cosmetic Surgery, our mission is to provide our patients with exceptional and comprehensive care from Dr. V and our expertly trained and caring staff, who will also be beside you for your journey. Our team will attempt to ensure that every aspect of your care is executed compassionately, thoughtfully, and thoroughly. Our goal is to restore and rejuvenate you through a holistic approach. Dr. V addresses your concerns while ensuring an artfully balanced result that builds confidence and peace of mind.

Our team comprises plastic surgery specialists, nurses, and coordinators with extensive cosmetic medicine experience and expertise.

Dr. V is one of only a few surgeons who has completed a cosmetic and aesthetic fellowship. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) endorses his prestigious fellowship.

Thigh Lift FAQ’S

It typically takes several months to see the full results of a thigh lift. Swelling will gradually subside, and the contour of your thighs will improve as healing progresses. Most patients see noticeable changes within 6 months after surgery.

The scars from the surgery will fade over time, although they may not disappear completely. With proper care, you can expect long-lasting results, but age and weight fluctuations may impact the appearance of your thighs in the future.
While thighplasty is a generally safe procedure, some potential risks are associated with it. Your surgeon, Dr. Chopra, will discuss these risks with you during your consultation to help you make an informed decision. Some of these risks include:
- Bleeding and infection
- Scarring (though scars are usually minimal and fade over time)
- Skin discoloration
- Asymmetry (one thigh may appear slightly different from the other)
- Fluid accumulation
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Heart or lung complications (rare)
If you experience these or any other unfavorable and long-lasting reactions, please contact us at Chopra Cosmetic Surgery immediately.

Patient Reviews

I moved to Philadelphia and drive back every few months just to see Dr. Chopra, I wouldn’t go anywhere else! They take such good care of me and make me feel so comfortable. The new office is beautiful- it’s a professional, clean, and comfortable environment. Carla is an angel, she is so helpful, supportive and so good to me and everyone. Highly recommend!

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Ali L.
This location is amazing! Dr.Chopra and his team take the time to listen to my concerns, walk me through solutions and still manage to make me feel good about myself but more importantly: they don’t try and UP sale me! They offer real solutions, they do not just throw all procedures at me and they don’t play off my insecurities to get more $$ out of me. If you want to look better AND feel better about your procedure – come here! You should feel just as confident, if not more confident when you leave👍

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Gina R.
The entire staff here is amazing and make the experience here incredibly comfortable and easy. Dr. Chopra’s ability to communicate and understand the issues I was having, while also providing his own honest medical opinions and recommendations was an amazing experience and helped me in this process a lot. His care and expertise in the procedures he completed left me feeling ecstatic about the results and I couldn’t be happier. Would definitely recommend this place to anybody thinking about a plastic surgery procedure.

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