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Thigh Lift in Irvine, CA

Expert Surgeons
4.9 Google Rating
Serving Orange County Since 2012

About Thigh Lift

A thigh lift removes loose, sagging skin and reshapes the inner or outer thighs for a firmer, more contoured appearance. This surgery is ideal for people who have lost significant weight or notice age-related skin laxity that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. By removing excess tissue and tightening remaining skin, a thigh lift can help clothing fit better and restore confidence in shorts, skirts, and swimwear.

Procedure Quick Facts

Duration of Procedure:
2-3 hours
Anesthesia:
General anesthesia
Recovery:
Resume light activities in 2-3 weeks
Results Duration:
Long-lasting with stable weight
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What is Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift, also called thighplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fatty tissue from the upper legs to create a smoother, tighter contour. Your surgeon makes discreet incisions, excises redundant skin, and re-suspends the remaining tissues so the thighs appear firmer and more proportionate. Incision placement is customized during your consultation and planned along natural body contours so scars can be hidden beneath underwear or swimwear. The operation is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Temporary drains may be placed when a vertical incision is required to help reduce fluid buildup and support proper healing. Thigh lifts are frequently combined with other body-contouring surgeries after major weight loss for a comprehensive transformation.

What Thigh Lift Can Do for You

If you're considering a thigh lift, South Coast Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through every step. Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your concerns and helps you achieve your aesthetic goals.
  • Remove Excess, Sagging Skin
    Eliminates hanging or crepey skin that often develops after weight loss or aging, leaving thighs looking firm and youthful.
  • Improve Thigh Contour and Proportion
    Reshapes inner, outer, or circumferential thigh areas to better match the proportions of your hips, buttocks, and lower legs.
  • Enhance Comfort and Mobility
    Reduces skin chafing and irritation caused by thigh rubbing, making everyday activities and exercise more comfortable.
  • Boost Clothing Confidence
    Allows you to wear shorts, skirts, and swimwear without feeling self-conscious about loose skin or irregular contours.
  • Complement Weight-Loss Results
    Completes your post-weight-loss journey by addressing residual skin laxity, providing a polished, finished look.
  • Long-Term, Stable Improvement
    With healthy lifestyle habits and stable weight, thigh lift results can last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment.

Thigh Lift Videos

Watch our videos to see real patients results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.

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Key Benefits of Thigh Lift

Removes redundant skin folds to create a smooth inner thigh silhouette for greater confidence in fitted clothing.
Tightens and lifts soft tissues, restoring a youthful contour that weight loss alone cannot achieve in the upper legs.
Reduces uncomfortable skin chafing and moisture-related irritation by eliminating excess skin between the thighs.
Improves overall body proportions, allowing your hips, buttocks, and thighs to appear balanced and aesthetically pleasing.
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Types of Thigh Lift

Medial (Inner) Thigh Lift

Targets loose skin on the inner thigh by placing an incision in the groin crease that may extend down the inner thigh. Ideal for patients with moderate skin laxity confined to the upper inner thigh. Produces a smoother inner contour while keeping scars well concealed.

Vertical Thigh Lift

Uses a vertical incision from the groin toward the knee to remove a larger skin envelope for significant weight-loss patients. Best suited for those with extensive skin laxity along the entire inner thigh. Provides dramatic tightening at the expense of a longer scar.

Lateral or Outer Thigh Lift

Addresses sagging tissues on the outer thigh and buttock region, often through an incision that extends from the groin around the hip. Ideal for patients seeking comprehensive contouring of the outer leg and improvement in the buttock‐thigh junction.

Mini Thigh Lift

Involves a shorter incision hidden in the groin to correct mild upper‐thigh laxity. Offers quicker recovery and minimal scarring for patients with limited skin excess primarily near the groin area.

Not sure which option is right for you?

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Meet your Thigh Lift surgeons

Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein are board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in body-contouring procedures, including complex thigh lifts. Their meticulous techniques, artistic eye, and compassionate approach ensure each patient receives results that look natural and feel balanced.

Why Choose South Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Thigh Lift?

Beauty Inside-Out

We care for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every treatment is provided with warmth and exceptional care to help you feel confident and supported

Clear Expectations from the Start

Share your goals in detail before you even arrive using Adoreal's personalized assessment. Your specialist will understand exactly what you're hoping to achieve before your consultation begins, making your visit more focused and personal

Dedicated Follow-Up Support

Your care doesn't end when you leave our office. Our team provides personalized check-ins to monitor your results, answer any questions, and make sure you're completely satisfied with your outcome.

Precision & Artistry

Your treatment is performed by highly trained specialists
who understand facial anatomy at the deepest level. We combine technical precision with an artistic eye to enhance your natural beauty while keeping you looking like you

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A Customized Approach to Body Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch

We recognize that every body is unique. Your thigh lift plan is crafted after a thorough discussion of your goals, evaluation of your skin quality, and consideration of your lifestyle and recovery timeline.

Before your consultation, you can complete a brief personalized assessment from home, helping us understand your specific goals, concerns, and timeline. During your visit, we'll use advanced 3D imaging to show you a realistic preview of your potential results, giving you confidence and clarity in your decision. 

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Private, Accredited Surgical Facility

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored to your unique goals from the moment you walk in.

Our surgeon will also assess individual factors such as skin elasticity, localized fat deposits, and muscle tone, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.

See Your Future Self

Am I a good candidate for Thigh Lift?

Ideal candidates are bothered by loose thigh skin, maintain a stable weight, and are healthy enough for surgery. A consultation helps determine if the benefits outweigh the risks for your unique situation.
Ideal candidates are bothered by loose thigh skin, maintain a stable weight, and are healthy enough for surgery. A consultation helps determine if the benefits outweigh the risks for your unique situation.
• In good overall physical and mental health
• Stable weight for at least six months
• Excess, sagging skin on the inner or outer thighs
• Non-smoker or willing to quit before and after surgery
• Realistic expectations about scars and achievable results
• Willingness to follow post-operative instructions
• Ability to take adequate time off for recovery

Help us understand your unique goals & concerns.

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.

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Your Thigh Lift Journey and Recovery

From your first consultation to your final results, you’re guided through every stage of your journey with personalized support, automated instructions, and 24/7 access to your care team. This is your journey, we just make it easier. 

Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment

Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you'd like to see and whether thigh lift is the right solution for your concerns.

  • Discuss your aesthetic goals and desired thigh contour
  • Examine skin laxity, fat distribution, and overall leg proportion
  • Explain incision options and expected scar placement
  • Review your medical history, medications, and lifestyle
  • Outline recovery expectations and answer all your questions

Together, you'll create a surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, with safety and realistic outcomes as the priority.

The Thigh Lift Procedure

You’ll arrive at our accredited surgical suite, where a board-certified anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the operation.

During the procedure:

  • Incisions are marked according to your pre-operative plan
  • Excess skin and underlying tissue are carefully excised
  • Remaining tissues are tightened and repositioned for a smooth contour
  • Drains may be placed to reduce fluid buildup when indicated

Incisions are meticulously closed in layers, dressings and compression garments are applied, and you’ll be monitored in recovery before heading home the same day.

Thigh Lift Recovery Timeline

Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.

  • Keep legs elevated when resting
  • Walk short distances to promote circulation
  • Manage swelling with compression and cold packs

Weeks 1-2

  • Drain removal typically occurs within 1-2 weeks
  • Return to desk work or light duties as comfort allows
  • Bruising and swelling steadily improve

Weeks 3-4

  • Resume light gym activities with surgeon approval
  • Continue wearing compression garments as directed

You'll receive personalized post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Your Thigh Lift Results

Thigh lift results are visible right away, though your thighs will continue to refine as swelling subsides and tissues settle.

Contours look noticeably tighter, but swelling may obscure final definition.

Swelling diminishes, scars begin maturing, and thigh shape becomes more defined.

Around six months to one year, scars fade and your thighs appear smooth, firm, and proportionate.

With proper care and a stable weight, thigh lift results can be long-lasting, helping you feel confident in your silhouette for years to come.

  • Days 3 - 5
  • Week 1 - 2
  • Week 2 - 3
  • Week 4 - 6

  • Month 2 - 3
  • Month 4 - 6
  • Long time
Start your Journey today

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Thigh Lift Results and Safety Considerations

Understanding how surgical technique, anatomy, and healing affect thigh lift results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.

Achieving Natural-Looking Results

Our surgeons emphasize precise tissue removal and layered closure to create smooth transitions between the thighs, hips, and buttocks. By tailoring incision patterns to your anatomy, they avoid over-tightening and maintain gentle, natural curves. Your skin elasticity, amount of excess tissue, and muscle tone all play a role in the final outcome. During consultation, we review photos and discuss your desired level of correction so that results align with your aesthetic vision and appear harmonious with the rest of your body.

Where Are the Incisions?

Incision placement depends on the amount and location of excess skin.

Groin-only incision hidden in the natural crease

Incisions are carefully planned to follow natural contours and are closed with precision to support proper healing and minimize long-term visibility.

Is Scarring a Concern?

Any surgical incision produces a scar, but careful placement, meticulous closure, and diligent scar care help scars fade over time. The trade-off is worthwhile for most patients seeking dramatic skin tightening.

Scar Healing Timeline

As your body heals, scars will change gradually over time:

Weeks 1-2
Scars may appear red and slightly raised

Months 1-3
Scars typically soften and begin to flatten

Around 6 months
Noticeable fading often occurs

1-2 years
Scars may continue to lighten and become less noticeable

Following post-operative instructions and recommended scar care plays an important role in how scars mature.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Medical examination room with a treatment table covered in white sheets and various medical equipment against the walls.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Thigh lift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks to be aware of.

Potential risks may include:

  • Bleeding or hematoma
  • Infection or delayed wound healing
  • Fluid collection (seroma)
  • Changes in skin sensation or numbness
  • Scarring or skin contour irregularities
  • Anesthesia-related complications

Your surgeon will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, surgical technique, and follow-up care.

Reducing Your Risk

Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe thigh lift experience include:

  • Thorough pre-operative evaluation and lab testing
  • Precise surgical planning tailored to your anatomy
  • Surgery performed in a fully accredited facility
  • Detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care

By choosing an experienced surgical team and following recovery guidelines closely, most patients heal well and are satisfied with their thigh lift results.

How Much does Thigh Lift Cost?

The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.

Financing options available through:
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Trusted by Our Community

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4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County

Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.

N. Snoozzz

Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !

Crystal Surmanian
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Frequently Asked Questions About Thigh Lift

Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift, explained by South Coast Plastic Surgery's experts

About the procedure

How long does a thigh lift take?
Most thigh lifts take between two and three hours, depending on the extent of skin removal and whether additional procedures are performed.
What type of anesthesia is used for thigh lift?
Thigh lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist to ensure your comfort and safety.
Where will my incisions be placed?
Incision placement is customized to your needs and may include a groin-only incision, a vertical inner-thigh incision, or an outer-thigh incision around the hip.
When can I return to work after a thigh lift?
Most patients feel comfortable returning to desk work within one to two weeks, provided their activities do not place strain on the surgical area.

Recovery & Results

How soon can I exercise after surgery?
Light walking is encouraged right away, but you should wait about three weeks for gentle gym activities and six weeks for unrestricted exercise, per your surgeon’s guidance.
How long do thigh lift results last?
Results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle; natural aging will continue but usually does not undo the improvement.
What are common risks of a thigh lift?
Potential risks include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation, wound healing issues, numbness, and scarring. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail at your consultation.
How do you minimize complications during thigh lift?
We perform thorough pre-operative evaluations, use meticulous surgical techniques, operate in an accredited facility, and provide detailed aftercare instructions to reduce risk.

Safety & Risks

Is thigh lift covered by insurance?
Thigh lift is considered a cosmetic procedure, so insurance does not typically cover the cost. We offer financing options to make treatment more affordable.
What factors influence the cost of a thigh lift?
Pricing is affected by the complexity of your surgery, incision type, anesthesia fees, facility costs, and whether additional procedures are combined.
Will I need to wear compression garments?
Yes, compression garments support healing, minimize swelling, and help your thighs adjust to their new contour. You’ll typically wear them for four weeks.
How can I maintain my thigh lift results?
Keeping a stable weight, following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and caring for your scars as directed will help preserve your results over time.

Cost & Insurance

Is thigh lift covered by insurance?
Thigh lift is considered a cosmetic procedure, so insurance does not typically cover the cost. We offer financing options to make treatment more affordable.
What factors influence the cost of a thigh lift?
Pricing is affected by the complexity of your surgery, incision type, anesthesia fees, facility costs, and whether additional procedures are combined.

Lifestyle & Long-Term Care

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