Loose skin after lipo. Is my only hope really a thigh lift? (Photo)

Question

I had lipo done about 9 months ago and while I’m very happy overall, I do have loose skin that I need to do something about. Is my only hope really a thigh lift? I knew going in lipo could make this worse so not blaming anyone. There are so many other treatments out there that claim to help tighten skin with laser or ultrasound and whatnot. I don’t want to waste my money. My doc did say it’s more skin laxity than cellulite bc pulling the skin up smooths it out.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It does appear you have some mild to moderate skin laxity.  Some options to consider instead of a thigh lift are BodyTite and Morpheus8.  BodyTite is a minimally invasive procedure that uses RF technology both above and just under the skin to tighten the tissues.  No general anesthesia is required.  Morpheus8 is sometimes added to optimize results.  It improves overall skin tone and texture.  I've included a video that I hope you find helpful.

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

Thigh lifts generally only improve laxity of the inner thighs. We usually just do thigh lifts on the outer thighs and severe weight reduction patients. Most skin tightening procedures don't make a significant improvement.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Anderson82,

Thank you for your question regarding loose skin after liposuction and whether a thigh lift is your only viable option. I appreciate the history and pictures you've shared. Upon analyzing your pictures, it's clear that the issue you're facing is loose thigh skin. Some of the fat was removed with thigh liposuction, leaving you with loose, indented thigh skin. You and your doctor are correct in assessing the condition of your outer thighs. The problem is skin laxity, not excess fat. Further liposuction would only exacerbate the skin laxity rather than improve it.

Given that the primary issue on your thighs is excess skin and not fat, the most effective way to address this is through a hip lift. This procedure involves making an incision over the hip region and lifting the outer thighs. Often, a hip lift is combined with an extended tummy tuck or a 360 circumferential lower body lift. A hip lift can dramatically and significantly improve the appearance of the outer thigh.

Therefore, my recommendation would definitely be for a thigh lift, or more accurately, a hip lift, rather than additional liposuction. I hope this answers your questions regarding loose outer thigh skin post-liposuction and confirms that a thigh or hip lift is a suitable option for your situation.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear aanderson82,
based on your photos, it looks like you would benefit from non surgical options to tighten your skin. If you are considering treatment, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Lutgardo Caparas, MD · Answer

Yes i would highly suggest to do a personal consultation so we can better assess your concern and give proper care

Loose skin after lipo. Is my only hope really a thigh lift? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Loose skin

Answer: Loose skin

Answer: Yes thigh lift

Answer: Yes thigh lift

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Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

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Loose skin after lipo. Is my only hope really a thigh lift? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Loose skin

Answer: Loose skin

Answer: Yes thigh lift

Answer: Yes thigh lift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.