Dr. Forest S. Roth finds that thigh lift candidates most commonly include patients who have lost a significant amount of weight — including those who have undergone bariatric surgery — and patients with age-related or genetic inner thigh skin laxity that does not respond to exercise. Ideal candidates are at or near their goal weight and have been weight-stable for at least 6 months, in good overall health, and prepared for a recovery that includes temporary activity restrictions.

Most patients treated by Dr. Forest S. Roth, MD, FACS return to desk work within 2–3 weeks. Early walking is encouraged to reduce the risk of blood clots, but stair climbing and lower-body exertion are limited in the first few weeks. Strenuous exercise and activity that strains the inner thighs are restricted for 4–6 weeks. Compression garments are worn continuously during the initial healing period.

Dr. Roth places the inner thigh lift incision in the natural groin crease, where it is concealed at the intersection of the thigh and pelvis. For patients requiring more extensive skin removal, the incision may extend down the inner thigh — positioned to be less visible in a standing position. All scars are initially pink and raised, then soften and fade significantly over 12–18 months with appropriate scar care.

Yes — Dr. Forest S. Roth frequently combines thigh lift with liposuction, abdominoplasty, arm lift, or back lift as part of a coordinated body contouring plan, particularly for patients who have undergone significant weight loss. Combining procedures reduces the total number of recoveries and allows Dr. Roth to achieve proportional, balanced results across multiple areas in a single surgical session.

Yes — Dr. Roth requires compression garments following a thigh lift for 4–6 weeks post-operatively. Garments must be worn continuously during the first weeks, including during sleep. Consistent use minimizes swelling, supports the skin as it adheres to its new contour, and helps achieve the best possible final shape. Dr. Roth's team provides specific garment instructions and fit guidance at the pre-operative appointment.

The two procedures address different anatomical areas. An inner thigh lift (medial thighplasty) — the most common approach performed by Dr. Forest S. Roth — removes excess skin from the inner thigh through an incision placed in the natural groin crease. It is the standard procedure for patients with medial laxity following weight loss or aging. An outer thigh lift addresses skin laxity on the lateral (outer) thigh, typically requiring an incision that extends from the hip around to the outer thigh as part of a lower body lift. The right procedure depends on where skin laxity is concentrated; some patients benefit from both components combined.