Am I A Good Candidate For a Thigh Lift?
Many people consider a thigh lift after significant weight loss, aging, or genetics leaves them with loose, sagging skin in this area. If you’re wondering whether this procedure is right for you, it’s important to understand what makes someone a good candidate.
Board-certified and fellowship-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Joshua Greenwald has more than 20 years of experience serving patients in New York. With thousands of body contouring surgeries performed, including thigh lifts, tummy tucks, and liposuction, Dr. Greenwald has a long history of excellence in this area.
His expertise and dedication to patient education help ensure that each person receives the best possible care. Let’s explore what makes you a good candidate.
What Makes a Good Candidate for a Thigh Lift?
While many people may want smoother, firmer thighs, not everyone is an ideal candidate for a thigh lift. Some factors that help determine whether this procedure is safe and effective for you include:
- You Have Excess Skin on Your Thighs: Ideal candidates for this surgery have sagging skin on their thighs that doesn’t improve with exercise. Many patients who have a thigh lift complain of “elephant skin,” referring to draping folds of skin. This is especially common after major weight loss when the skin has been stretched beyond its ability to retract.
- You’re at a Stable Weight: A thigh lift isn’t for weight loss. It’s best suited for people who have already reached a healthy weight but struggle with excess sagging skin. If you plan to lose a significant amount of weight, Dr. Greenwald may recommend waiting to have a thigh lift afterward.
- You’re in Good General Health: You need to have good general health before surgery. Certain chronic diseases, like diabetes, could affect your healing.
- You Don’t Smoke: Smoking isn’t safe for anyone undergoing surgery, as it significantly increases complication rates. If you smoke, you must be willing to quit for a period before and after the surgery to reduce risks and ensure the best possible outcome.
The Thigh Lift Procedure
Dr. Greenwald performs thigh lifts at our state-of-the-art surgical center. Our experienced anesthesiologist provides general anesthesia and closely monitors you throughout.
Dr. Greenwald creates incisions along the inner or outer thighs, depending on how much excess skin needs to be removed. He tightens the remaining skin, positioning and securing it in a smooth, youthful contour. Many patients also have liposuction to remove lingering fat for additional contouring.
Recovery time varies, but most patients resume light activities (nothing too strenuous) within a couple of weeks. It’s normal to have some swelling and skin discoloration around the incisions, but this fades over time, and full results are typically seen within a few months.
Patients often experience more sculpted thighs, reduced problems like chafing, improved clothing fit, and boosted confidence after a thigh lift.
Thigh Lift Surgery in Harrison and NYC
Thinking about a thigh lift? Dr. Joshua Greenwald and our expert team are here to help. With offices in NYC and Harrison, Dr. Greenwald provides personalized consultations to determine if this procedure is right for you. Call 914-421-0113 to arrange your consultation today.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.