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Bespoke Plastic Surgery
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Genetics, weight loss, sun exposure, and just simply getting older can change the texture, appearance, and overall elasticity of the thighs. Creams, lasers, and other non-surgical devices offer subtle improvements. However, in some people, loose skin on the thighs can be so significant that surgery becomes the best option for change. A thigh lift in Charlotte, NC, can tighten, tone, and reshape the thighs, providing you with a wealth of new wardrobe options, a boost in self-esteem, and immediate improvement in areas unaffected by diet and exercise.

What is a thigh lift?

A thigh lift is the most effective way to reshape a thigh when liposuction alone would be inadequate. Skin quality is ultimately what determines whether or not a thigh lift is appropriate for you. A common scenario that may necessitate consideration for a thigh lift is significant weight loss. Weight loss, especially when a disproportionate amount of fat is lost below the waist, leads to the deflation of the skin that was once full of fat and ends up appearing loose and redundant as a result.

Thigh lifting is often done in conjunction with liposuction to provide better contouring and to maximize the amount of skin able to be removed

  • Vertical Thigh Lift: The most common lifting procedure for the inner thighs and knee region, an incision that runs along the groin crease and along the inside of the thigh allows for the most effective way to shape thighs with moderate to severe skin excess. 
  • Medial Thigh Lift: Less versatile than the vertical lift, the medial lift is designed to remove mild skin excess isolated to the uppermost region of the thigh. The incision is isolated to the groin crease and hidden within the bikini line.
  • Outer Thigh Lift: The upper portion of the outer thighs near the hips can begin to droop and may appear loose and crepey as a result of aging or excessive weight loss. Skin excess in this location is typically less severe than in the inner thighs. Rejuvenating the outer thighs is primarily done with a lower body lift. The incision is placed 360° along the waistline.

Who makes a good candidate for the procedure?

  • In good health with proper control over any medical problems
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) < 35
  • Non-smoker
  • Individuals frustrated with loose, hanging skin on the thighs
  • Those interested in optimizing thigh shape
Thigh Lift in Charlotte NC

Why choose Dr. Pratt in Charlotte, NC, for a thigh lift?

Patients seeking elective cosmetic surgery are able to see multiple surgeons in consultation before selecting the surgeon they are most comfortable with. Dr. Pratt encourages each patient to visit other practices to be sure they find the right fit. Dr. Pratt has raised the bar in this department. His ability to connect with each patient on a level that is professional and informative, yet so relaxed, is a style that is distinctly his own and leaves a lasting impression. 

The rare combination of an approachable demeanor, an uncompromising commitment to safety, and a tireless drive to deliver unparalleled results instills confidence in the patient that is empowering.

Photo of Charlotte Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Pratt

After graduating from the University of Florida College of Medicine, Dr. Pratt went on to complete six years of general surgery residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. He then honed his skills at the University of North Carolina at Chapel here, where he completed a fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Pratt returned to Charlotte in 2005 and has been one of Charlotte’s most sought-after aesthetic plastic surgeons. 

He is on staff at four of the region's premier hospitals, where he continues to take emergency room and facial trauma calls despite a busy private practice. His beautifully appointed office in south Charlotte and on-site state-of-the-art surgery center are nestled in the heart of Ballantyne. Dr. Pratt and Bespoke Plastic Surgery are dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the breast, body, and face.

Dr. Broc Pratt

FAQs about thigh lift surgery with Dr. Pratt

I’d prefer not to have the incision along the inside of my inner thigh. Why do I need this?

The vertical incision along the inner thigh is the only way to ensure safe and maximal skin removal when moderate to severe sagging is present. Complications such as excessive scarring, scar migration and irreversible vaginal distortion may occur when an attempt to remove too much skin with a medial thigh lift.

My thighs have loose skin, but they still have a significant amount of fat. Will the extra fat be addressed during the thigh lift?

Yes, liposuction is performed when needed in conjunction with a thigh lift in Charlotte NC. In larger thighs, Dr. Pratt may elect to perform the liposuction as a separate procedure if he feels your final shape and scar quality would favor this approach.

Do I need general anesthesia for a thigh lift?

Mild to moderate thigh lifts can be done under moderate sedation in select individuals. More involved thigh lifts are performed under anesthesia.

What’s the scar going to look like? That part worries me

Dr. Pratt completely understand your concerns and will do everything in possible to optimize scar location and quality. This involves many variables such as technique, types of stitches used, and not removing too much skin. If there was a way to provide maximal shape with minimal incisions, we would obviously prefer such a technique. The truth is that any lesser operation done when a thigh lift is actually needed will most certainly fall short of expectations and potentially lead to undesired complications.

Will I have drains with my thigh lift with Dr. Pratt?

Typically, no, but this is something that is ultimately decided in the operating room. The risk for fluid build-up after thigh lift surgery is definitely a possibility, however, these small collections tend to pop up 2-3 weeks after surgery, when the drains have already been removed. Fluid build-up is an inevitable part of body contouring to some degree but rest assured it is usually a minor annoyance that is readily addressed in the office in a matter of minutes.

What is recovery like after a thigh lift with Dr. Pratt?

Recovery varies based on the extent of fat and skin removed. Patients should expect to keep activity other than walking for the first 2 weeks and elevation of the legs above the level of the heart when lying down is recommended to help reduce swelling. Dr. Pratt frequently recommends post-operative lymphatic massage to help facilitate your recovery. Dr. Pratt has worked for nearly 10 years with what he considers is Charlotte’s best lymphatic massage specialist in Charlotte, who will perform the service in the comfort of your own home. In his experience, patients who elect to partake in this optional service have significant reductions in post-operative discomfort and pain.

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