There are several trouble areas on the body that can be particularly difficult for women. One notorious area is the outer thigh—excess fat here can form the dreaded “saddlebag.” Fortunately there is a cosmetic surgery procedure called an outer thigh lift which can reduce or eliminate these pouches of fat and skin.

Outer Thigh Lift Procedure

A thigh lift procedure involves the removal of fat pockets and skin from the thigh, usually on the outside or lateral thigh area. This plastic surgery procedure may be combined with liposuction of the leg, but generally requires one or two incisions in each thigh to complete. When a thigh lift procedure involves skin removal, the surgery is done under general anesthesia. In order to minimize the thigh lift scar, the incision is made along the bottom curve of the buttock when possible. In some cases the incision is actually made in the side of the abdomen so that the thigh lift scar follows a natural crease in the belly. In any event, the thigh lift scar can usually be covered by clothing, even a bikini bottom.

Risks of Outer Thigh Lifts

An outer thigh lift is a relatively safe procedure with few associated complications. As with any surgery, infection and fluid accumulation are possible, as is damage to the nerves and the blood vessels. Infection and fluid can be treated, but nerve or vein damage may be permanent (though usually mild if they occur). A thigh lift procedure may result in too much or too little skin retraction. If the skin retracts too much or if the thigh lift scar moves because of subsequent weight gain, the area may need to be revised surgically (operated on again).

Recovery From Outer Thigh Lift

Thigh lifts, especially an outer thigh lift, do not require a long recovery period. Anyone having a thigh lift procedure should expect to be off work and to have limited activity for days to weeks after the procedure. Most people can return to their usual activities within a short period of time. For a few weeks, you will be required to wear compression garments over each thigh, a tight stocking that keeps the area from swelling too much.

Outer Thigh Lift Cost

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the average surgeon’s fee for a thigh lift is $4,589. The cost of the anesthesiologist and the facilities fees may increase the overall thigh lift cost by several hundred dollars. This thigh lift cost will not be covered by medical insurance in most cases.

Consulting with a Plastic Surgeon Professional

You should speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon that has experience with outer thigh lift surgery. This surgical professional will be able to guide you through the thigh lift process from evaluation to payment plans, if necessary.