Thigh Lift Washington DC
At Congressional Plastic Surgery, our boutique clinic offers advanced techniques for firmer, shapely legs and refined lower-body proportions.
Redefine Your Silhouette
Dr. Christopher C. Chang holds double board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. With training from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Johns Hopkins and over 80 peer-reviewed publications, he brings a wealth of experience to every procedure. Our practice offers thigh lifts to help address excess skin and fat that cannot be corrected through diet and exercise alone, delivering transformative and natural-looking results in a discreet, patient-centered environment.
What Is a Thigh Lift?
A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the inner, outer, or both areas of the thighs.
Factors like aging, genetics, and gravity can cause the skin to lose its natural elasticity. Additionally, the deeper fat deposits in the thighs are often bound by fibrous tissue that resists both diet and exercise, making non-surgical methods ineffective for tightening loose skin or eliminating stubborn fat pockets.
Incisions made during the procedure can be placed along the groin crease, may extend downward around the back of the thigh, or can be minimal within the groin area for select candidates.
The technique involves precise tissue removal and redraping of the skin, which tightens the skin, shapes the underlying tissues, and rejuvenates the thigh's appearance.
Subtypes of Thigh Lift
- Inner Thigh Lift: Targets medial thigh sagging with groin-length incision.
- Outer/Mid-Thigh Lift: Addresses outer and posterior thigh laxity via longer wraparound incision.
- Mini Thigh Lift: Limited excess skin corrected with a shorter incision in the groin.
Thigh Lift Benefits
- Improved Contour & Proportion: Smooths sagging skin, creating firmer, more balanced thighs.
- Long-Lasting Results: With stable weight, results can endure for many years.
- Reduced Skin Friction & Chafing: Eliminates excess tissue that can rub together, preventing irritation and discomfort.
- Better Clothing Fit: Creates a sleeker silhouette, so pants, leggings, and dresses drape more smoothly.
- Easier Exercise & Mobility: Frees your legs from excess skin, making activities like running or yoga more comfortable.
- Smoother Skin Texture: Tightening often refines the appearance of mild cellulite and improves surface tone.
Dr. Chang came highly recommended- and did not disappoint! He was friendly, patient, took time to explain things, very responsive, and I felt really comfortable with him and his entire office. My procedure was pain-free and I'm so happy with the results. I'll definitely be going back to Dr. Chang in the future!
- Ava E.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Thigh Lift?
You may be a candidate if you have:
- Excess laxity in the inner and/or outer thighs along with persistent skin redundancy due to weight fluctuations, aging, or genetic factors
- A stable body weight, ideally within 10% of your goal weight, maintained for at least six months, and a body mass index (BMI) under 30
- Good overall health, including well-managed chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension
- Non-smoker or willing to stop using tobacco at least six weeks before and after surgery
- Adequate skin quality
What Can I Expect From My Initial Thigh Lift Consultation?
During your consultation, Dr. Chang will review your medical history, evaluate skin quality and fat distribution, discuss realistic goals, and recommend the ideal technique (inner, outer/mini, or combined lift). You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan, risk discussion, and pre- and post-operative guidelines.
Cost
Thigh lift costs vary by technique and extent of surgery. Our practice provides transparent consultation pricing, including the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility charges, garments, and follow-up visits.
How Should I Prepare for a Thigh Lift?
- Medical Clearance: Obtain lab work and physician clearance if needed.
- Stop Smoking: Discontinue tobacco 4–6 weeks before surgery to enhance healing.
- Arrange Support: Plan for transportation, post-op care, and time off work (typically 1–2 weeks).
- Home Setup: Prepare a recovery area with pillows to elevate legs and fill prescriptions in advance.
What Does the Procedure Entail?
Performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation, a thigh lift typically takes 2–4 hours. Dr. Chang places incisions according to your anatomy and goals—inner-thighs, outer/mid-thigh wrap, or mini-lift. He removes excess tissue, repositions and secures underlying fascia, then closes incisions with layered sutures for minimal tension.
What Will Recovery Be Like After My Thigh Lift?
- Immediate Post-Op: Compression garments applied; mild to moderate discomfort managed with oral pain medication.
- First Week: Limited mobility; drains may be in place for 1–3 days.
- Weeks 2–4: Gradual return to light activities; swelling and bruising resolve.
- 6–8 Weeks: Most swelling subsides; resume low-impact exercise.
- 3–6 Months: Final contour emerges as tissues settle.
Why Choose Congressional Plastic Surgery for Your Thigh Lift in Washington, DC?
- Elevated Expertise: Dr. Chang’s fellowship-level training in craniofacial and reconstructive surgery ensures meticulous technique.
- Credentials: Harvard, Yale, Johns Hopkins pedigree; 80+ peer-reviewed publications.
- Boutique Care: Private clinic environment, personalized attention, and continuity across surgical and nursing teams.
- 24-Hour Support: Exclusive recovery program with around-the-clock access to Dr. Chang and nursing staff.
Related Procedures
- Liposuction: For patients with good skin elasticity but localized fat deposits.
- Lower-Body Lift: Comprehensive contouring after massive weight loss.
- Buttock Lift: Combined to enhance the overall lower-body silhouette.
FAQs
Will I experience changes in skin sensation after a thigh lift?
You may experience temporary numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity around the incision lines due to nerve stretching or transection. Most patients regain normal sensation within 3–12 months as nerves regenerate.
When can I drive and resume normal daily activities?
You may drive once you’re off narcotic pain medications and can comfortably operate the pedals—typically 1–2 weeks post-op. Light household tasks can resume at 1–2 weeks; avoid heavy lifting (>10 lbs) or vigorous activity for 4–6 weeks.
Are surgical drains required, and how are they managed?
Drains help prevent fluid (seroma) accumulation. You’ll typically have one or two drains in place for 3–5 days. We’ll teach you how to empty the bulbs, record output, and maintain a sterile field until removal at your follow-up visit.
When can I shower, and how do I care for my incisions?
You may shower 48 hours after surgery using gentle, non-irritating soap. Pat incisions dry—do not scrub or soak them (no baths or pools) until fully healed, usually after 2 weeks.
Will a thigh lift affect lymphatic drainage or increase the risk of lymphedema?
When performed with meticulous technique, a thigh lift preserves lymphatic channels. Mild postoperative swelling may temporarily impair drainage, but compression garments and early ambulation facilitate lymphatic return and reduce the risk of lymphedema.
What is the likelihood of needing a revision procedure?
Revision rates for thigh lifts are low (around 5–10 percent) and typically relate to asymmetry, minor contour irregularities, or scar adjustments. Revisions are usually minor and performed under local anesthesia.
How are complications such as infection or seroma managed if they occur?
At the first sign of infection (redness, warmth, fever), we initiate oral antibiotics and may perform in-office drainage. Seromas are aspirated in the office using a sterile technique. Close follow-up ensures prompt resolution and preserves your results.
Ready to Achieve Sleek, Sculpted Thighs?
Our AAAASF-accredited facility maintains the highest safety and quality standards, and Dr. Chang holds hospital privileges at Johns Hopkins Sibley Memorial and INOVA Health Systems. As a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and a RealSelf Hall of Fame honoree with consistently 5-star patient ratings, our practice combines industry leadership, rigorous outcomes tracking, and compassionate support at every step.
Let’s achieve your aesthetic goals together. Schedule your personalized thigh lift consultation at Congressional Plastic Surgery today.
Sources Cited
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2024). Thigh Lift. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/thigh-lift
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2024). The Thigh Lift: Applications, Recovery, and Results. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/the-thigh-lift-applications-recovery-and-results
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2024). Thigh Lift: Recovery. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/thigh-lift/recovery
Mayo Clinic. (2025). Thigh lift. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/thigh-lift/about/pac-20384507
Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Thigh Lift (Thighplasty). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25012-thigh-lift-thighplasty
Healthline. (2020). Thigh Lift: Types, Cost, Potential Side Effects & Recovery. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/thigh-lift
Phone: (888) 413-3923 Hours: M-F 9:00am to 5:00pm
Recent Reviews
"I have never felt so confident. Dr. Chang completely changed how I saw myself in the mirror. I was terribly self conscious of my nose from my youth and finally decided to go through with the surgery. Not only was it inexpensive compared to the other three doctors I contacted, the before and after pictures of patients were also much better looking than the others! The whole process of surgery and recovery was quick and pretty much painless. I would definitely recommend him to anyone wanting cosmetic surgery. It really made me a happier person." - Catherine M.
"My son was in a terrible accident with most of the bones in his face and skull broken... I don't know what I would have done without Dr Chang!! My son is fully recovered and back to his old self again. I love Dr Chang, he will be in my prayers for the rest of my life. Thank you!" - Elizabeth A.
"I cannot say enough about my surgery with Dr. Chang! I had full facial Rejuvenation including a facelift brow lift and upper eyelids done 4 months ago. I also had a chemical peel to my lower eyelids and mouth. They was barely any pain and I was back to work the next week! I am so thrilled and my friends are so impressed. I cannot say enough about my experience! He is both caring and an amazing surgeon! Thank you so much!" - Cathy W.
The entire experience and outcome was everything I hoped for and I cannot thank Dr. Chang enough! He is a true pro and I recommend 100% without reservation!" - Ashley R.
"I went to Dr. Chang to correct the damage done to my breasts from pregnancy and breastfeeding. He went above and beyond to make me comfortable and to explain exactly what the procedures (lift + implants) would entail. He was extremely responsive and truly understood the look that I was trying to achieve - full, natural for my frame, and with minimal scarring. I'm only two days out from surgery and I'm already loving my results. I am so glad that I chose Dr. Chang to restore my chest to its pre-baby appearance. I actually think they are going to be better than they ever were before I had kids!" - Emily L.
