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Thigh Lift in NYC

A thigh lift is a custom surgical procedure to resolve the aesthetic problem of saggy, fatty thighs that can make individuals feel self-conscious. The surgery removes excess fat, skin, and tissue, restoring a firm and sculpted appearance to the upper legs. If there is only excess fat in the thighs, liposuction may be sufficient with a shorter recovery and minimal scarring. 

Dr. Darrick Antell: Leading New York Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as being among the most experienced board-certified plastic surgeons practicing in New York and has frequently been listed as a “Top Plastic Surgeon” by Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine. Respected by his peers and patients, Dr. Antell is often called upon to treat celebrities, high-profile individuals, and other discerning patients who demand superior results.

Dr. Antell’s extraordinary accomplishments include being honored for his groundbreaking research on identical twins and the aging process, and he is the only plastic surgeon to have his work displayed in the Smithsonian Museum. He approaches NYC thigh lift surgery with the philosophy that “plastic surgery should whisper, not scream,” meaning that he takes care to ensure that his work produces a natural yet enhanced result. Known for his extraordinary skills in body contouring, Dr. Antell achieves exceptional surgical outcomes in the surgical reshaping of the upper thighs – firm, fit, and natural in appearance. 

Am I a candidate for a thigh lift in Manhattan?

A thigh lift in Manhattan can restore your thighs so that the area appears more smooth, firm, and sculpted. The best candidates for a thigh lift are individuals in good health who: 

  • Have significant skin and tissue looseness on the upper legs
  • Are unhappy with or self-conscious about the appearance of excess hanging skin, tissue, and fat
  • Are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surgery with proper nutrition and regular exercise

Dr. Antell will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for a thigh lift, as your health and safety are his primary concern.

Woman with toned and beautiful thighs.

What can I expect in my consultation?

In your initial consultation for a thigh lift in NYC, Dr. Antell will evaluate your general health and medical history, as well as examine the current condition of your body. After listening to your concerns, he will then work with you to develop the most appropriate body-contouring plan for achieving your desired outcome, while minimizing risks. Dr. Antell offers an array of body sculpting procedures and can inform you of the various body-contouring methods available. If there is only excess fat in the area of concern, liposuction may be sufficient with a shorter recovery and minimal scarring. For those who have large amounts of excess skin and tissue, a thigh lift is often the appropriate procedure.

During your initial consultation, be sure to mention any dramatic weight losses or gains you have experienced. You should also inform him if you smoke and if you're taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs. Don't hesitate to ask Dr. Antell any questions about the surgery, recovery, and expected outcome.

How should I prepare for my thigh lift? 

You will be provided with instructions to thoroughly prepare you for surgery including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins and specific medications. You may be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to your day of surgery. Depending on your medical history, you may be asked to provide pre-operative clearance from another doctor. As the procedure is performed under “twilight” sedation, you should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and ensure you have someone to assist you for the first few days.  

Where will my thigh lift be performed?

Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer for the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world-renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. His facility has a private back entrance to ensure total discretion and all members of his staff have been thoroughly trained to offer personalized care. The state-of-the-art outpatient surgery facility is fully accredited, designed for your comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. 

What are the risks? 

Although all surgery involves some level of risk and the potential for complications, a thigh lift in Manhattan is typically a safe procedure when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon who employs the latest surgical techniques and the most stringent patient health and safety protocols. The most common complications include bleeding, infection, fat necrosis, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia. In addition, numbness or changes in the sensation of the skin may occur. Dr. Antell will provide a thorough discussion of all risks during your initial consultation.

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How is a thigh lift performed?

A thigh lift helps to create smoother, tighter contours for the upper leg by removing excess skin and tissue. The length and placement of your incisions will be customized based on your current condition, with the pattern of the incisions reflecting the quantity of skin and tissue to be removed. Dr. Antell will strategically place the incisions to be as hidden from view as possible, such as in areas that are under clothing. To contour the inner thigh, a typical incision may begin in the groin, extend downward, and wrap around the back of the thigh. To contour the outer thigh, a typical incision may begin in the groin and extend around the hip and across the back. 

Through these incisions, Dr. Antell tightens the thigh structure for a smoother, toned, and contoured look. Multiple layers of meticulous sutures, as well as external sutures when necessary, will be used to close the incisions and support the new contours. Dr. Antell may place a temporary tube at the time of surgery to drain fluid and help prevent accumulation. In addition, a bandage may be placed over the incision areas to provide support and aid in healing. Depending on the complexity of your customized procedure, the surgery may take anywhere between two and five hours to complete. 

What will my recovery be like?

After undergoing the surgery, you will recover in Dr. Antell’s state-of-the-art recovery suite while being monitored by one of his nurses until you feel well enough to be discharged. A thigh lift is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day as your surgery. When performed under IV sedation, you should be prepared to have an escort to bring you home, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Upon leaving the facility, you will be provided thorough discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial post-operative period. Throughout the entire recovery process, Dr. Antell and his staff will be available to answer any questions you may have. Your first follow-up appointment will typically be scheduled for the day after surgery so that Dr. Antell can observe the healing process. 

You can sponge bathe immediately and are usually able to take a shower 48 hours after your procedure. If deemed necessary, you may be prescribed antibiotics to help prevent infection. If so, please be sure that you take the entire course as directed. While you will be able to return to most light, daily activities within a few days, Dr. Antell may recommend taking up to a week off from work. External sutures, if used, will be removed one to two weeks after your procedure. Depending on the extent of your procedure, you may be asked to refrain from vigorous exercise for four to six weeks. After the procedure, you will likely be bruised and swollen. While this will mostly dissipate within the first six to eight weeks after surgery, some residual swelling can remain for six months or more. 

The incisions made during a thigh lift are strategically placed to be as hidden from view as possible when wearing clothing or a swimsuit. Over time, the incisions will fade and become less noticeable. The skills of your surgeon are the most critical in achieving the desired outcome. It is important to prevent exposure of your scars to direct sunlight for the first six months by using appropriate sun block, as this can cause changes to the pigmentation. You can be confident that you will achieve a superior result from a thigh lift when under the care of a doctor with the experience of Dr. Antell. 

What will my expected result be?

A thigh lift is a highly effective technique for creating more smooth, firm, and sculpted upper legs. The results are long-lasting, provided you maintain your weight by eating sensibly and exercising regularly. Most patients love the results of a thigh lift — they feel more confident in a wide variety of clothes and more at ease with their bodies.

Woman sitting on bed with attractive thighs.

How do I get started?

Dr. Darrick E. Antell and his staff will be happy to provide a discreet and private consultation to evaluate your needs and discuss a thigh lift. Please call the office at (212) 988-4040 to schedule your consultation.

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