Thigh Lift in Metairie,
& New Orleans, LA

Aesthetic Surgical Associates, located in Metairie, offers thigh lift procedures to remove excess skin and fat from the thigh area. Our triple-board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Stephen Metzinger, performs excellent operations, helping patients achieve a smoother appearance. We utilize the latest techniques and work closely with each individual to develop customized treatment plans and provide dramatic yet natural-looking results. Patient comfort and safety are always our top priorities.

Table of Contents

What is a
Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift, also called a thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that can improve the look of the thighs by removing excess tissue. Many patients develop loose skin that cannot be corrected by diet and exercise. This is usually caused by natural aging, pregnancy, or significant weight loss. Extra tissue can create sagging skin folds and dimples in the thighs. A thigh lift aims to improve the appearance and bring the thighs into proportion with the rest of the body. This can help alleviate or completely remove sagging. Many patients also combine liposuction with their thigh lifts to give the skin and thighs a smoother look.

View Our Thigh Lift Before & After

Types of Thigh Lift Surgeries

Full Thigh Lift

A full thigh lift removes excess skin and fat from the entire thigh, including the front, inner, outer, and back. It is the most comprehensive procedure that provides dramatic reshaping. The incision is made in the groin area and then extended down to the knee. This surgery is designed to address severe sagging.

Mini Thigh Lift

A mini thigh lift focuses on the upper inner thighs. It removes excess skin and fat deposits in that small localized area. The mini thigh lift is less invasive than a complete procedure. It is the best option for patients with mild sagging.

Inner Thigh Lift (Medial Thigh Lift)

A medical thigh lift targets loose skin on the inner thighs. This is a more extensive approach to tightening tissues and contouring that area. The incisions can be made in several places and have varying lengths and shapes, depending on the patient’s needs.

Outer Thigh Lift (Bilateral Thigh Lift)

An outer thigh lift, or a bilateral thigh lift, removes loose skin and fat from the outer thighs, improving cellulite dimples and reshaping the contours. It helps lift the tissues for a smoother, firmer appearance.

Spiral Thigh Lift

The spiral thigh lift is an extensive procedure for dramatic enhancements. The incision runs from the groin area, curves underneath the buttocks, and then runs to the outer thighs. It allows the surgeon to target excess skin around the entire thigh.

Consultation & Preparation
for Thigh Lift

A thigh lift procedure begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Metzinger. During this appointment, the surgeon evaluates the patient’s concerns with their thighs, looks into their medical history, and determines if they are a good candidate for surgery. Dr. Metzinger also discusses the details of the thigh lift process, including the placement of incisions, what areas will be targeted, and the anticipated results and recovery period. He also advises the patient on how to prepare for surgery. This may involve reaching a stable weight, following a proper diet, and discontinuing certain medications or supplements beforehand.

Thigh Lift Procedure

General Anesthesia

The thigh lift procedure is performed under general anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable and pain-free. We use the best medications to minimize dizziness and other side effects that may happen after the patient wakes up from anesthesia.

Incisions

Dr. Metzinger makes incisions at the top of the thigh and in the groin area to access the regions that require contouring. The length and pattern of the openings depend on how much skin needs to be removed. The incisions are placed strategically to be hidden by underwear or a swimsuit after healing.

Liposuction (Optional)

Liposuction is often performed during a thigh lift to remove pockets of fat that cause irregular contours and bulges. Dr. Metzinger inserts a small cannula tube through tiny incisions and moves it back and forth to loosen and suction out the fat. This procedure helps to slim and smooth the shape of the thighs.

Removal of Excess Skin

After liposuction, excess skin is cut away, and the remaining tissue is pulled taut. Trimming away the overhanging skin gives the thighs a toned appearance. The surgeon may also reposition the tissues to lift the buttocks.

Closing the Incisions

Once the desired contours have been achieved, Dr. Metzinger closes the incisions with sutures, surgical tape, and skin adhesives. Over time, the incision lines fade significantly.

Recovery After Thigh Lift Surgery

Once your surgery has been completed and the patient returns home, it is essential to follow our aftercare instructions. The patient may have drains installed to release excess fluid from the body and avoid excessive swelling. It is crucial to keep track of the amount of collected fluid so that Dr. Metzinger knows when it is appropriate to remove the drains. For the first 48 hours after surgery, patients should not shower. They must always keep the incision sites clean and sterile to avoid infection. In 7-10 days, patients are usually ready to return to work. After 4-6 weeks, they can resume physical activity with Dr. Metzinger’s clearance. Thighplasty surgeries leave visible scarring, but our surgeon uses the best techniques to hide it as much as possible in the body’s natural creases. Patients can reduce scarring by following aftercare instructions and ensuring the incision sites are not infected.

More than 10,000 thigh lifts are performed annually in the United States, helping patients restore their contours and remove excess fat and skin. Typical candidates for this surgery include:

Patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and have excess tissue in their inner or outer thighs that does not resolve over time with diet and exercise

People with skin laxity and fat deposits that cause discomfort or difficulty with clothing, exercise, or other activities

Individuals who have a genetic predisposition towards storing fat in the thighs and buttocks

Post-pregnancy patients who struggle with loose tissue  in the outer or inner thighs.

People who have had massive weight loss after bariatric surgery and have residual sagging

Older individuals who have developed thigh skin laxity  due to aging

Benefits of Thigh Lift

When considering this cosmetic procedure, it is crucial to understand its potential advantages. Here is a list of the main ones:

Improved contours. A thigh lift removes excess tissue and tightens the remaining skin, resulting in more toned thighs.  It can improve overall body proportions.

Cellulite removal. A thigh lift eliminates cellulite and dimpled skin in the inner and outer thighs, making them look smoother.

Reduction in skin irritation and chafing. Excess tissue can cause irritation, chafing, and other unpleasant sensations. A thigh lift removes this unwanted skin and fat to prevent discomfort.

Increased confidence. Reshaping and contouring the thighs can make patients feel more confident in their appearance. Clothing and swimsuits may also fit better.

Long-lasting results. If maintained through healthy lifestyle choices, the outcomes of a thigh lift can remain for many years. They last longer compared to non-surgical treatments.

Cost of Thigh Lift
in Metairie & New Orleans

The cost of thigh lift surgery in Metairie and New Orleans ranges from $5,000 to $20,000. This price accounts for the doctor’s fee, anesthesia fees, operating room charges, and other associated expenses. The cost can vary depending on the extent of correction and the surgeon performing the procedure. Dr. Metzinger provides accurate price quotes during the initial consultation.

What Makes Our  Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Aesthetic Surgical Associates is renowned for its commitment  to excellence and patient-centered care. Under the direction  of Dr. Stephen Metzinger, a triple-board-certified plastic surgeon,  our dedicated team provides top-quality services throughout the entire thigh lift journey. Performing surgeries at a state-of-the-art facility accredited for safety and comfort, Dr. Metzinger puts the patient’s well-being first, treating each individual like family.  Our compassionate team achieves transformative thigh lift results with precision techniques and an artistic vision, helping people feel comfortable and confident in their bodies.

Thigh Lift in Metairie, & New Orleans, LA

What is a Thigh Lift?