For those looking to achieve smoother, more toned thighs, a thigh lift—also known as thighplasty—can be a life-changing procedure. Whether caused by significant weight loss, aging, or genetics, loose skin and stubborn fat in the thigh area can be difficult to address with diet and exercise alone. A thigh lift helps reshape and contour the thighs by removing excess skin and fat, resulting in a firmer, more youthful appearance.
While all thigh lifts aim to improve thigh contours, different techniques are used based on the extent of correction needed and the specific areas being treated. Understanding the types of thigh lifts available can help determine the best option for your body and goals.

What is a Thigh Lift?
In a nutshell, a thighplasty, or “thigh lift,” is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the shape and tone of the thighs by removing excess fat and sagging skin. It is most commonly performed on patients who have experienced significant weight loss, leading to loose, hanging skin. While the overall goal of a thigh lift is the same—to enhance the appearance of the thighs—the technique used depends on the specific concerns being addressed, which is why multiple types of thighplasty exist.
Types of Thigh Lift Surgery
There are several types of thigh lifts, each designed to address specific concerns related to excess skin and fat in different areas of the thighs. The right procedure for you will depend on factors such as the amount of skin laxity, the location of excess tissue, and your overall aesthetic goals. Below, we break down the different types of thigh lift surgeries to help you understand which one may be the best fit for your needs.
1. Inner Thigh Lift (Medial)
An inner thigh lift, or medial thigh lift, is designed to address sagging skin and excess fat along the inner thigh. The procedure involves making an incision along the natural crease where the thigh meets the groin. The surgeon then removes excess skin, tightens the underlying tissues, and may use liposuction to eliminate stubborn fat deposits. This results in a more contoured and sculpted appearance, improving both the aesthetics and comfort of the thighs.
This procedure is ideal for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with excess skin along the inner thighs. It is also beneficial for those experiencing skin laxity due to aging. Candidates should be at a stable weight and in good overall health. Those seeking a smoother, more toned thigh contour without significant scarring are the best fit for a medial thigh lift.
2. Outer Thigh Lift (Bilateral)
An outer thigh lift, also known as a bilateral thigh lift, is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the outer thighs, hips, and buttocks. The procedure involves an incision that runs along the upper thigh near the hip or waistline, allowing the surgeon to lift and tighten sagging skin. Liposuction may also be used to remove stubborn fat pockets and further contour the thighs, resulting in a smoother and more defined appearance.
This procedure is best suited for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and are left with sagging skin along the outer thighs and hips. It is also ideal for patients looking to enhance the overall contour of their lower body. Candidates should be at a stable weight and understand that while the procedure provides dramatic improvements, scarring is inevitable but can be concealed with clothing.
3. Vertical Thigh Lift
A vertical thigh lift is designed for individuals who have excess skin and fat along the entire length of the thigh, from the groin down to the knee. The procedure involves making a crescent-shaped incision along the inner thigh, extending from the groin to the knee. The surgeon then removes excess skin and tightens the underlying tissues to create a smoother and firmer contour. Liposuction may also be performed to further refine the shape of the thighs. While this procedure offers significant reshaping benefits, it does result in a visible scar along the inner thigh.
This procedure is best suited for patients who have undergone major weight loss and have loose, sagging skin along their thighs. It is also ideal for individuals who need extensive correction that a medial or mini thigh lift cannot provide. Candidates should be comfortable with the trade-off of a more prominent scar in exchange for dramatic improvements in thigh contour and skin tightness.
4. Posterior Thigh Lift
A posterior thigh lift is designed to target sagging skin and excess fat on the back of the thighs. The procedure involves making incisions along the lower buttocks crease or across the back of the thighs, depending on the extent of correction needed. The surgeon removes excess skin and tightens the remaining tissue to create a smoother, firmer appearance. In some cases, liposuction may be used to contour the area further. This technique can also help reduce the appearance of cellulite, leading to an overall more youthful and toned look.
This procedure is best suited for individuals who have significant sagging or loose skin on the back of their thighs due to aging, weight loss, or genetics. It is ideal for those who want to improve the contour of their lower body and achieve a firmer, lifted appearance. Candidates should be in good overall health and understand that while the procedure offers excellent results, scarring may be visible depending on incision placement.
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5. Spiral Thigh Lift
A spiral thigh lift is a comprehensive procedure that addresses excess skin and fat around the entire thigh, including the inner, outer, front, and back areas. This technique involves making two incisions: one that extends from the groin to the inside of the knee and another around the waist and hip area. The surgeon tightens and removes excess tissue, reshaping the thighs for a smoother and more balanced contour. This procedure also enhances the shape of the buttocks, providing a more proportionate lower body appearance.
This procedure is best suited for individuals who require extensive correction, typically those who have undergone major weight loss and have significant skin laxity throughout the thighs. Patients should be comfortable with the trade-off of longer incisions and a more extended recovery period in exchange for dramatic, long-lasting results. If you seek a total thigh transformation with enhanced overall leg contours, the spiral thigh lift may be the best option for you.
6. Mini Thigh Lift
A mini thigh lift is a less invasive procedure designed to improve the contour of the upper inner thigh. The procedure involves making a small incision in the groin area, allowing the surgeon to remove excess skin and tighten the remaining tissue. Liposuction may be used to remove small pockets of fat, creating a smoother, more toned appearance. Since the incisions are minimal, scarring is less noticeable, and the recovery time is shorter compared to other thigh lift procedures.
This procedure is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity in the upper thigh area who do not require extensive correction. It is best suited for those who have maintained a stable weight but are struggling with minor sagging due to aging or slight weight fluctuations. If you are looking for a subtle enhancement with minimal downtime, a mini thigh lift may be the best option for you.
How To Choose The Type of Thigh Lift For You
Choosing the right type of thigh lift depends on your unique body structure, the extent of skin laxity, and your desired results. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring procedures is the best way to determine which approach will provide the best outcome for you. An experienced surgeon will evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and recommend a customized treatment plan to help you achieve a more sculpted and proportionate thigh appearance.
Dr. Samuel Beran, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience in body contouring, has helped countless patients achieve their desired thigh aesthetics. Whether you’re considering a minor skin tightening or a more extensive lift, Dr. Beran’s expertise ensures a safe and effective procedure tailored to your needs. Call us today at (845) 863-1772 to schedule a consultation and discover which thigh lift option is right for you.