You’ve worked hard on your health. Maybe you’ve lost a lot of weight, or maybe time has simply changed how your skin sits. Either way, loose skin on the thighs is one of the most common things people tell us they can’t fix at the gym. That’s because exercise builds muscle and burns fat, but it doesn’t tighten skin that has already stretched.
A thigh lift, also called thighplasty, is the surgical option for that loose skin. At Beyond Restore in Newport Beach, thigh lifts are performed by Dr. Andrew Jarminski, MD. This guide covers what the procedure does, the different versions, what the day of surgery and recovery look like, and how to tell whether it’s the right next step for you.
What a Thigh Lift Does
A thigh lift removes excess skin, and often some fat, from the thighs for a smoother, firmer contour. It’s built for skin that has lost its snap, not for fat alone. When there’s also stubborn fat to address, Dr. Jarminski may recommend adding liposuction, including VASER, in the same procedure.
The goal is a leg shape that matches the work you’ve already put in. Many people notice that shorts and swimwear fit differently afterward. Results vary from person to person, and Dr. Jarminski will talk through what’s realistic for your body at your consultation.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a good fit for a thigh lift if you:
- Have loose or sagging skin on the inner or outer thighs
- Have reached a stable weight, including after major weight loss or weight loss with a GLP-1 medication
- Don’t smoke, or are willing to stop before and after surgery
- Are in good general health and have realistic expectations
Dr. Jarminski confirms candidacy in person. If you’re still on your weight-loss journey, our medical weight loss program can be a good place to start before you think about surgery.
Which Thigh Lift Fits You?
There isn’t one single thigh lift. The right version depends on where your loose skin is and how much of it there is.
Mini Thigh Lift
Suited to mild looseness at the upper inner thigh. It uses a short incision in the groin crease.
Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift
For loose skin along the inner thigh. The incision sits in the groin crease and sometimes runs down the inner thigh.
Outer Thigh Lift
For looseness on the outer thigh and hip. The incision runs from the groin around the hip.
Spiral Thigh Lift
For looseness around the whole thigh. The incision wraps around the upper thigh.
In general, scars sit in less visible spots, usually the groin crease or along the inner thigh. You’ll get scar care instructions after surgery. Dr. Jarminski will recommend the version that fits your goals after examining you.
Surgery Day: Awake or Asleep
One thing people appreciate about thighplasty at Beyond Restore is the choice of anesthesia. You can have the procedure awake, with Pro-Nox and tumescent local anesthesia, or under general anesthesia. Dr. Jarminski will walk you through both options so you can choose what feels right.
A thigh lift takes about four hours, and you go home the same day. There are no drains to manage afterward.
Recovery: What to Expect
Recovery is a process, and having a plan makes it easier. Here’s the general timeline:
- Compression garment: You’ll wear one after surgery to support the area.
- Light activity: You’ll get a light-activity plan and follow-up visits with our team.
- Back to work: About two weeks, depending on how physical your job is.
- Exercise: About six weeks.
Your own recovery may differ, and Dr. Jarminski will tailor your instructions.
Results Over Time
Swelling eases and your contour settles over the following months, so be patient with the process. Long term, results can change with weight changes and aging, which is one more reason a stable weight matters going in.
Understanding the Risks
Like any surgery, a thigh lift has risks. These include bleeding, infection, swelling, a visible scar, changes in sensation, asymmetry, fluid collection, wound separation, and the possibility of a revision. Dr. Jarminski reviews these in detail at your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Pairing a Thigh Lift With Other Procedures
Thighplasty can be combined with other procedures when it makes sense for your plan, including liposuction or VASER, Renuvion, a tummy tuck, or an arm lift. After major weight loss, many people want to address more than one area. If arms are on your list too, our arm lift guide covers that procedure in depth.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
If your looseness is mild, or you’re not ready for surgery, there are other options. HD Lipo removes fat, Renuvion tightens tissue, and Morpheus8 Body may suit milder laxity. These options don’t remove loose skin, so they don’t give the same results as a thigh lift. Your consultation is a good place to compare them honestly.
You can also browse our gallery to see more of our surgical work.
Thigh Lift FAQs
How do I know which type of thigh lift I need?
It depends on where your loose skin sits and how much there is. Mild looseness at the upper inner thigh often points to a mini lift, while looseness around the whole thigh may call for a spiral lift. Dr. Jarminski will examine you and recommend a version at your consultation.
Should I finish losing weight before a thigh lift?
Yes, a stable weight is part of being a good candidate, including if you’ve been losing weight with a GLP-1 medication. Results can change with future weight changes, so it makes sense to reach your goal first.
Do I need to stop smoking?
To be a candidate, you’ll need to be a non-smoker or willing to stop before and after surgery. Dr. Jarminski will go over the timing with you.
Where is the surgery performed?
Dr. Jarminski performs procedures in our onsite surgical suite or at an accredited surgical center. You’ll know where your procedure will take place before your surgery date.
Paying for Your Thigh Lift
Pricing is personalized and discussed at your consultation, because it depends on which version you need and whether you combine procedures. Beyond Restore does not bill insurance. We offer financing through PatientFi, CareCredit, and Cherry.
Book Your Free Consultation
Consultations are free. Walk-ins are welcome, but scheduling ahead is recommended so you have time with Dr. Jarminski. Book a consultation or call 949-503-9621.
This article is for educational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a qualified physician about whether a thigh lift is right for you.
Beyond Restore Wellness & Aesthetics
1501 Westcliff Dr #303, Newport Beach, CA 92660
949-503-9621
Monday–Thursday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Friday 9:00 AM–4:00 PM