Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) Surgery in Newport Beach, CA

Restore Confidence and Comfort with a Newport Beach Thigh Lift

Are you struggling with loose or sagging thigh skin after weight loss? Reclaim smoother, firmer legs with a personalized thigh lift, performed by board-certified surgeon Dr. Brandon Richland in Newport Beach’s state-of-the-art medical facilities.

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What Is a Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) Surgery?

A thigh lift (thighplasty) is a targeted cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and stubborn fat from the thighs to create a smoother, more contoured appearance. Dr. Richland customizes each surgery using advanced techniques, such as bilateral or spiral thigh lifts, based on your unique needs and goals. Most incisions are discreetly placed in the groin area for minimal visible scarring.

Benefits you can expect:

• Tighter, more toned thigh contours
• Improved comfort in clothing and movement
• Enhanced self-confidence

Most patients resume normal activities within two weeks, following Dr. Richland’s expert recovery guidance for optimal healing.

Why Choose Newport Beach for Your Thigh Lift?

Newport Beach is recognized for its world-class plastic surgery centers and highly trained specialists. With Dr. Richland, you receive:

• Board-certified expertise and a proven record of beautiful, natural results
• Personalized care in a peaceful setting, ideal for a comfortable recovery
• Access to advanced surgical technology in a discreet, supportive environment

Enjoy your recovery surrounded by Newport’s coastal beauty and mild climate, which many patients say helps them heal faster and feel at ease.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Thigh Lift Surgery?

You may benefit from a thigh lift if you:

• Have lost significant weight and struggle with loose, sagging thigh skin
• Have persistent fat deposits unresponsive to diet and exercise
• Are in overall good health, a non-smoker, and have realistic expectations

A private consultation with Dr. Richland ensures a fully customized plan, so you know what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.

Choosing the Right Thigh Lift Surgeon in Newport Beach

Selecting your surgeon is one of the most important steps in your journey. Dr. Richland is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and specializes in body contouring procedures, including thigh lifts. His experience and dedication to patient safety have helped many Orange County residents achieve life-changing results.

What patients say:
“After my weight loss, I felt self-conscious about my thighs. Dr. Richland’s expertise and caring approach made all the difference, I finally feel confident in my skin again.” — Sara, M., Newport Beach

Take the Next Step – Limited Consultations Available

Ready to see if a thigh lift is right for you? Dr. Richland offers both in-person and virtual consultations to fit your schedule.

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Schedule Your Consultation | or Call Us: 949.867.4496

Individual results may vary. Please contact us for a private consultation to discuss your goals and expectations.

Consultation Process

A successful thigh lift consultation involves clear communication between the patient and the plastic surgeon. Patients should be prepared to discuss their goals and medical history while the surgeon provides detailed information about the procedure and recovery.

What Questions Should I Ask My Plastic Surgeon About Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) Surgery?

Asking the right questions helps ensure you understand the procedure and set realistic expectations. Consider including these questions in your discussion:

• What are the potential risks and complications?
• What type of thigh lift is best for my body?
• How long will the recovery process take?
• What kind of results can I realistically expect?
• Can I see before-and-after photos of previous patients?

Discussing these questions helps you stay informed and comfortable with the procedure.

What Should I Expect During A Consultation for Thigh Lift Surgery?

During your consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your medical history, including any conditions, allergies, or previous surgeries. They will also ask about your goals to tailor the procedure to your needs.

A physical examination of your thighs helps the surgeon determine the best technique. Expect to discuss the types of thigh lifts, such as inner or outer thigh lifts, and what recovery will look like.

The surgeon may photograph your thighs for comparison in post-operative assessments. You’ll also receive pre-operative and post-operative care instructions, ensuring you’re well-prepared for every step.

Understanding the Thigh Lift Procedure

A thigh lift procedure aims to contour and improve the appearance of the thighs by removing excess fat and skin.

What Medical Terms Should I Know About Thigh Lift Surgery?

When considering a thigh lift, it’s important to understand some key medical terms. Thighplasty is another word for a thigh lift. Incisions refer to the surgical cuts made to remove excess skin and fat. Sutures are the stitches used to close these incisions.

Anesthesia is administered to ensure that the patient feels no pain during the surgery. Depending on the extent of the procedure, this can be either local or general anesthesia.

What Types of Thigh Lift Surgeries are There?

There are several types of thigh lift surgeries, each designed to target specific areas of the thigh. The inner thigh lift or medial thigh lift focuses on removing excess skin from the inner thighs. An outer thigh lift or lateral thigh lift targets the outer areas, lifting and tightening the skin.

A mini thigh lift involves smaller incisions and is ideal for patients with minimal excess skin. The spiral thigh lift combines aspects of both inner and outer thigh lifts, offering a more comprehensive approach.

What are the Surgical Steps of a Thighplasty Procedure?

The thigh lift procedure involves several steps. First, anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort during the surgery. Once the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon makes precise incisions along the targeted areas. These incisions can vary based on the type of thigh lift being performed.

After making the incisions, the surgeon removes excess fat and skin to achieve the desired contour.

Incorporating Liposuction Into a Thigh Lift

In some cases, liposuction is performed before the main thigh lift surgery begins. If a patient has significant excess fat in the thigh area, the surgeon may first use liposuction techniques to gently remove unwanted fat deposits. This step helps enhance the final contour and makes it easier to achieve smooth, natural-looking results.

Once the excess fat is removed using liposuction, the surgery proceeds as usual: the incisions are made, and any remaining skin is carefully excised to create a more toned appearance. By combining liposuction with a thigh lift, surgeons can further refine the shape of the thighs, addressing both excess fat and loose skin in a single procedure.

Finally, sutures are used to close the incisions, and the area is bandaged to minimize swelling.

Patients can expect to see the full results of their thigh lift within six months, with a smoother and more toned appearance becoming evident as the swelling reduces.

How Long Should Bandages Stay On After Thigh Lift Surgery?

Bandages play a crucial role in your initial recovery following a thigh lift. Generally, your dressings should remain in place for about 72 hours after surgery, unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon. After this period, you’ll be able to gently remove them when showering. Be sure to reapply clean bandages afterward to help reduce swelling and protect the incision sites. Always follow your surgeon’s instructions for wound care and reach out if you notice any unusual changes, such as increased redness or drainage.

Cost of Newport Beach Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) Surgery in California

The cost of thigh lift surgery varies widely and can be influenced by several factors including surgeon experience, and facility fees.

How Much Does a Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) Cost?

The cost of thigh lift surgery in Newport Beach, CA can range significantly. Prices generally fall between $5,000 and $23,000. This number often does not include essential components such as anesthesia and operating room fees, which can add to the total expense.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost is around $6,378, while other sources, such as RealSelf, report an average closer to $9,225 based on patient reviews.

It’s crucial for patients to discuss these details directly with their surgeon’s office to get an accurate estimate of the total cost.

Insurance Coverage

Thigh reduction surgery is often considered a cosmetic procedure, and as such, insurance coverage can be limited. It’s important to know what factors determine coverage and what out-of-pocket costs may be involved.

Is a Thighplasty Covered by Insurance?

Most health insurance plans do not cover thigh lift surgery because it is typically classified as cosmetic rather than medically necessary. This includes the costs associated with the surgery itself, anesthesia, and any necessary medical tests.

There are instances where insurance may cover a thigh lift if it is deemed medically necessary. For example, if a significant amount of weight loss has led to excessive skin that causes medical complications such as skin infections or mobility issues, coverage might be considered.

For those whose insurance does not cover the surgery, many plastic surgeons offer financing plans. CareCredit and other medical financing companies may provide options to make the procedure more affordable over time.

Non-Surgical Alternatives

There are several non-surgical alternatives for those who wish to improve the appearance of their thighs without undergoing surgery.

What Non-Surgical Alternatives are There to a Thigh Lift?

Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting): This fat-freezing procedure targets and eliminates stubborn fat cells without surgery. It’s an ideal option for reducing fat deposits on the inner and outer thighs.

Radiofrequency (RF) Treatments: These treatments use RF energy to heat the skin, promoting collagen production and tightening loose skin. This can improve skin elasticity and make the thighs appear firmer.

Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can reduce fat and tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production. This is particularly effective for areas with mild to moderate sagging.

Ultrasound Therapy: Ultrasound energy targets fat cells and stimulates collagen, providing a dual benefit of fat reduction and skin tightening.

Topical Creams and Lotions: Some products contain ingredients like retinoids, caffeine, and peptides, which can improve skin texture and firmness. Although results are usually less dramatic, they can be beneficial for maintaining skin health.

Can Diet and Exercise Restore Lost Skin Elasticity in the Thighs?

While maintaining a balanced diet and staying active offer many health benefits, like reducing overall body fat and improving muscle tone, they have their limitations when it comes to skin elasticity. Once skin on the thighs has lost its natural stretch and firmness, no amount of targeted exercise or healthy eating can fully restore its former resilience.

Strength training and cardio can certainly trim and tone the legs, but sagging skin and persistent pockets of fat generally won’t respond to workouts or nutrition alone. This is why many individuals, even after achieving impressive weight loss or fitness milestones, still find that loose or crepey thigh skin remains an issue.

If your main concern is tightening skin that won’t bounce back on its own, these non-surgical approaches may help modestly but are unlikely to deliver dramatic results.

Pros and Cons

Thigh lift surgery offers significant benefits, such as improved thigh contours and reduced excess skin, but it also comes with potential risks and drawbacks. Both aspects should be carefully considered.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Thighplasty Surgery?

Benefits:

A thigh lift can drastically enhance the appearance of the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. This results in firmer, smoother skin and better overall leg contour.

For individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, this surgery helps to address skin laxity, making them feel more comfortable and confident. Moreover, the results of the surgery are long-lasting when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Risks:

Thigh lift surgery is an invasive procedure that carries risks such as infection, scarring, and complications related to anesthesia. Patients might also experience prolonged swelling and bruising.

Side Effects, Risks, and Complications

Thigh lift surgery, like all surgical procedures, carries potential side effects, risks, and complications. These can range from common issues such as pain and swelling, to less frequent but more serious problems.

Are There Side Effects, Risks, or Complications of Thighplasty Surgery?

Common Side Effects:

Patients often experience swelling, bruising, and pain after surgery. These effects are usually temporary and can be managed with medication and proper care. Scarring is also common, as incisions are necessary for the procedure.

Risks:

Thigh lift surgery carries risks like anesthesia complications and asymmetry. Bleeding and deep vein thrombosis are also possible. Some individuals may experience seroma, where fluid accumulates under the skin.

Complications:

Infection and major wound separation can occur post-surgery. Fat necrosis, where fatty tissue under the skin dies, is another complication. Consistent monitoring and follow-up visits are essential to address any complications early.

Preparation for Surgery

Preparation for thigh lift surgery requires specific steps to ensure a smooth procedure and optimal recovery. These steps often involve making dietary changes, stopping certain medications, and avoiding other activities that might complicate the surgery.

How Should I Prepare for a Thigh Lift?

Prior to surgery, patients might be asked to undergo lab tests or evaluations to determine their readiness for the procedure.

Patients are usually advised to stop smoking several weeks before surgery. Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of complications.

Certain medications, like aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements, may need to be discontinued. These substances can increase bleeding and affect recovery. The surgeon will provide a precise list of medications to avoid.

Maintaining a stable weight is crucial before surgery. Significant weight fluctuations can impact skin elasticity and the final results of the thigh lift. If weight loss is desired, it is best to achieve this prior to the procedure.

Rest and hydration also play vital roles in preparation. Patients should ensure they are well-rested and properly hydrated leading up to the day of the surgery. Adequate rest and hydration help the body cope better with surgical stress and promote faster recovery.

Thighplasty Recovery Process

The recovery process following a thigh lift surgery involves careful adherence to post-operative instructions and a series of progressive steps to ensure proper healing. Here’s what you can expect in terms of recovery time, swelling, physical activity, and follow-up care.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Thigh Lift?

Thigh Lift recovery typically takes several weeks, with significant improvements usually seen around six months post-surgery.

Initial Days: During the first few days after surgery, patients may experience pain, swelling, and bruising. Pain medication can help manage discomfort.

First Week: Light walking is encouraged to aid circulation. Most patients begin this with the help of a friend or family member.

Second Week: Many can return to work, provided their job isn’t physically demanding.

First Month: Physical therapy may start if recommended. Engaging in mild exercise helps reduce stiffness.

Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with the surgeon are crucial to track healing progress and address any concerns. Small tubes might be placed near the incision sites to drain excess fluids.

Long-term, it’s essential to avoid strenuous physical activity for at least six weeks. Full recovery, which includes the final aesthetic results, can take up to six months, during which swelling and bruising will gradually subside.

When Can I Shower or Get Back to Regular Activities After a Thigh Lift?

After a thigh lift, patients are typically able to take a shower about 72 hours post-surgery. It is important to keep all dressings in place for the first three days, and bandages should be re-applied after showering as directed by your surgeon.

Baths, hot tubs, and swimming pools should be avoided for several weeks to prevent infection and allow incisions to heal properly. If you have surgical drains, these will need to be emptied and monitored regularly until your surgeon removes them during a follow-up appointment.

Resuming everyday activities, including exercise and more vigorous routines, should be done gradually. Most patients are instructed to avoid strenuous activity and exercise for at least four weeks. Lighter activities, such as short walks, are often encouraged early in the recovery to support circulation, but always follow specific instructions from your healthcare provider for the safest recovery.

Duration of Thigh Lift Results

The results of a thigh lift can be long-lasting, providing an improved appearance and feel of the thigh area. These results, however, depend on several factors, including lifestyle choices and the natural aging process.

How Long Does a Thighplasty Last?

A thigh lift typically offers durable results, provided that an individual maintains a stable weight. After the initial recovery period, which can take several months, the skin becomes firmer and smoother.

Factors such as significant weight fluctuation can affect the longevity of the results. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise help in maintaining the improved contours of the thighs.

While sagging skin may eventually return due to the loss of skin elasticity with aging, the procedure offers substantial improvements that shouldn’t easily regress if weight is managed. The commitment to proper care and maintenance greatly impacts how long the benefits of a thigh lift will be enjoyed.

Expected Results

A thigh lift patients can expect to see tighter, smoother skin and an overall improvement in confidence.

What Results Can I Expect After I Have Thigh Lift Surgery?

After undergoing thigh lift surgery, results typically include a more toned appearance in the thigh area. This is achieved by removing excess skin and fat, which helps in reducing the sagging skin often present after significant weight loss.

Patients may notice minor scarring, which tends to fade over time but doesn’t disappear completely. The improved skin quality and contour should remain stable, especially with a consistent weight and healthy lifestyle. Visible results can be immediate, but the final appearance may take several months to fully develop.

Thigh lift Scars from the surgery are usually strategically placed to be less visible. The smoother look and elimination of sagging skin often lead to increased confidence in wearing a wider range of clothing.

Combining Thigh Lift with Other Body Contouring Procedures

For patients seeking a more comprehensive transformation, a thigh lift can often be safely combined with additional body contouring procedures. Common complementary surgeries include arm lifts, tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), liposuction, and even full “mommy makeover” packages.

Choosing to address multiple areas during one surgical session can provide more balanced results while reducing overall recovery time when compared to staging procedures separately. Of course, your safety is always the priority. During your consultation, we will review your goals, overall health, and candidacy for combined surgery to ensure you achieve an optimal outcome with as smooth a recovery as possible.

Before & After Photos

Before and after photos can provide important insights into potential results and help patients set realistic expectations for their own outcomes.

Thighplasty Before & After Photos

Thighplasty before and after photos showcase the transformation achieved through this surgery. These images typically highlight improved skin tightness, reduced sagging, and better leg contours.

Patients who have lost significant weight often turn to thigh lifts to address remaining excess skin. Comparative photos help prospective patients see the extent of changes they might expect.

Real patient photos are often provided by board-certified surgeons and can be found on professional websites like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and RealSelf.

About the Author

Dr. Brandon Richland, MD is one of the best, most respected, top Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in Newport Beach, California specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.

Driven by his passion for medicine, Dr. Richland obtained his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the prestigious program at Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine in 2013. His exceptional skills were recognized when he received the McGraw Hill / Lange Medical Student Academic Achievement Award, and graduated top of his class with Honors. For his undergraduate degree, he attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated with Honors in 2009.

To further enhance his surgical expertise, Dr. Richland completed his Residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) from 2013 to 2019 earning the Academic Achievement Award twice during this period. A total of 14 years in dedicated schooling and medical residency.

Dr. Richland is actively involved with healthcare and medical societies, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Contact Dr. Richland’s Newport Beach Plastic Surgery office today by calling 949-867-6005, or visit RichlandMD.com to schedule your personalized plastic surgery consultation in Newport Beach.

Cover Image Credit: Melnyk58 / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.