Buttock/Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

What is a Thigh/Buttock Lift?

A thighplasty, commonly known as a thigh or buttock lift, is a surgical procedure which lifts and tightens loose skin, improving the contour of the thigh and buttock area.

Who is a good candidate for a Thigh/Buttock Lift?

Candidates must be in good health, have no active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions, and must have realistic expectations of the outcome of the surgery. This procedure is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for proper diet and exercise. A thigh/buttock lift is ideal if you are self-conscious about your lower body appearance and:

  • You have lost some skin elasticity in your thigh, hip, or buttock areas.
  • Your skin area sags or has an "orange peel," or dimpled appearance.
  • The appearance of your thigh improves dramatically when you lift the lax skin.

NOTE: You may not be a candidate for surgery if you smoke, have recently quit smoking, or if you are exposed to second-hand smoke. Primary and secondary smoking decreases blood flow to the body's tissues. This can result in prolonged wound healing, skin loss, infection, increased scarring, and a number of other complications depending on the kind of procedure performed. Click here for more information related to smoking.

How is the procedure performed?

Your surgeon will work with you during your initial consultation to determine which procedures will be most effective in achieving your desired result. There are many possible variations in the procedure to meet clothing or personal desires. To lift the inner thighs, short incisions are made extending from the back of the thigh/groin crease around to the buttock crease. If desired, side or back thigh lifts may be performed as separate procedures.

Lifting the entire thigh and buttock (also known as circumferential lower body lift) requires much longer incisions. These incisions are made starting in the buttock crease, then extending around the groin, up and over the side of the abdomen, over the flank and then across the back.

List of Physicians Who Perform the Thigh/Buttock Lift

For details about education, experience, and specialty in this clinical area, please visit these physician profile pages:

Planning for Your Surgery

First, schedule a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you'd like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and what long-term benefits you will experience. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation:

  • Provide a complete medical history. Include information about any previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and all medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
  • Expect your surgeon to examine to conduct a complete physical examination.
  • Be prepared to discuss possible risks and complications of the procedure.

Preparing for Your Surgery

You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. A pre-operative information packet will be provided that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. Your surgeon will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. You may also want to make arrangements for someone to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital.

Where Your Surgery Will be Performed

Your procedure will take place in the University of Michigan Hospitals' state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. The majority of these procedures are completed on an out-patient basis.

Types of Anesthesia

In most cases, general anesthetic is used so that you will sleep and remain comfortable throughout the procedure.

After Your Surgery

Click here for information about how to care for yourself after the surgery and what to expect during your recovery. It is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have.