Please help. Skinny flabby legs (Photo)

Question

Hello, I'm having a very very difficult time. I'm only 30 and no longer can wear shorts. My self esteem is at an all time low. I'm 5'3 120 so not over weight my thighs are actually on the slimmer side. But they are very flabby looking. I've tried working out, also inquired about some non surgical tx but the doctors say there wouldn't be much change. I just want to love my legs and feel sexy again. Are there any options for me that will actually work? Please and thank you so so much.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Morpheus 8 is a non-invasive skin and soft tissue tightening treatment that is consistently amazing in our patients. We use the Morpheus to exact fractional induced RF into the skin or tissue in order to tighten collagen and stimulate contraction of the tissue. For acne scars, it is quite useful to build collagen in patients who have atrophic scars but is not very productive for ice-pick scars which require TCA Cross. For tissue tightening, Morpheus is ideal for the face and neck and we often combine it with CO2 laser or Ultherapy to further enhance results. Chemical peels and skin resurfacing should be done at least 5 to 7 days after, but can be performed earlier, depending on treatment severity. Avoid exfoliating skin treatments before Morpheus and expect a period of 2-4 weeks for skin contraction to set in.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Thighs are unfortunately the most difficult area of the body to treat. While there are many reasons for this, one of the primary reasons is that the dermis, or strength layer of skin, is relatively thin. Most of the skin tightening procedures and devices target the dermis to promote collagen formation and tightening. Devices such as BodyTite and J-Plasma will help, but I would most definitely temper expectations. I would also couple any moderately invasive procedure with external radiofrequency and possible microneedling, such as Morpheus.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello helpmepleaselol, and thank you for your question regarding how to improve the appearance of your thighs.

Given your slim build and the flabbiness you're experiencing, the best course of action is likely exercise rather than surgery. Resistance training, including exercises like squats, quad crunches, and endurance biking, can help you build muscle tone and improve the overall appearance of your legs. These exercises can provide significant results by firming up your thighs naturally.

If you're still considering surgical options, it's important to understand that a thigh lift, which involves an incision from the groin to the knee, would be the most effective surgical option for removing excess skin and fat. However, please note that this procedure will leave a visible scar, and the recovery process can be extensive.

Liposuction, even with advanced techniques like VASER or Renuvion/J-plasma, may not give you the results you're hoping for because your skin may not contract sufficiently, leaving you with wrinkled or dimpled skin.

Ultimately, I believe that focusing on targeted exercises will give you the best chance at achieving the leg appearance you desire. If you do decide to pursue surgical options, make sure to consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and the potential outcomes.

Good luck, and I hope this helps you find the confidence and love for your legs that you're seeking.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There are a couple of options that may help tighten the thigh skin.  One is J Plasma that is done in conjunction with liposuction to help tighten the tissues.  Another is BodyTite.  This minimally invasive procedure does not require general anesthesia.  It uses RF technology to tighten skin.  I've included a video on this that I hope you find helpful.

Please help. Skinny flabby legs (Photo)

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Please help. Skinny flabby legs (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

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