Dr. de Clermont-TonnerrePlastic Surgeon

Paris 16th & Pontoise (95)

Thigh Lift

Cruroplasty — Paris 16th & Pontoise

A thigh lift (cruroplasty) corrects skin laxity of the inner thighs, often following significant weight loss or natural ageing. The procedure removes excess skin to achieve firm and shapely thighs. Performed in Paris 16th and Pontoise by Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre, it can often be complemented with associated liposuction.

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Step by step

How the procedure works

01

Consultation

Assessment of the amount of excess skin, skin quality and associated fat deposits. Discussion of technique and scar placement.

02

Pre-operative assessment

Blood tests, anaesthesiologist consultation. Smoking cessation 1 month before. Mandatory 15-day reflection period.

03

Procedure

Under general anaesthesia, duration 2 to 3 hours. Resection of excess skin from the inner thighs, with scar in the inguinal fold.

04

Hospitalisation

1 night in hospital. Dressings and compression stockings. Walking permitted from the following day.

05

Follow-up

Suture removal at day 14. Consultations at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Compression garment for 4 to 6 weeks.

At a glance

Duration
2 to 3 hours
Anaesthesia
General
Hospitalisation
1 night
Time off work
10 to 15 days
Return to sport
6 to 8 weeks
Final result
At 6 months

Benefits

  • Firm and shapely thighs
  • Scar in the inguinal fold (concealed)
  • Can be combined with liposuction
  • Long-lasting results
  • Improved comfort (reduced chafing)
  • Better clothing fit

Risks

  • Visible scar (especially if extended along the thigh)
  • Possible downward migration of the scar
  • Haematoma or seroma
  • Lymphoedema (rare)
  • Thromboembolic risk
  • Secondary laxity if weight is gained

Insurance & Reimbursement

Cosmetic cruroplasty is not reimbursed by the French health system. Partial coverage is possible after bariatric surgery if the skin laxity causes documented functional complications. Please enquire during your consultation.

Expected Results

A thigh lift delivers firm and shapely thighs with lasting results. Improvement in daily comfort (reduced chafing, irritation) is immediate. The final result is visible at 6 months.

Résultats

Avant / Après

Thigh Lift

Photos de patients du Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre, partagées avec leur accord. Les résultats varient selon les individus et leur morphologie.

Thigh lift before and after — Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a thigh lift (cruroplasty)?+
A cruroplasty (or thigh lift) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the inner thighs. It is often performed after significant weight loss or simply to correct skin laxity related to ageing or heredity.
What are the scars after a thigh lift?+
The scar is placed in the inguinal fold (junction between the thigh and the groin), sometimes extended vertically along the inner thigh in cases of significant laxity. Well concealed within the natural fold, it fades progressively over 12 to 18 months.
Is a thigh lift covered by health insurance?+
It may be partially covered after bariatric surgery (bypass, sleeve gastrectomy) if the skin laxity causes functional complications (maceration, recurrent skin infections). In other cases, it remains entirely the patient's responsibility.
Can a thigh lift be combined with liposuction?+
Yes, liposuction can be combined with a thigh lift when there is excess fat in addition to skin laxity. The combination achieves a more precise and harmonious result. The surgeon assesses during the consultation whether this association is appropriate.
What is the recovery time?+
Time off work is 10 to 15 days for an office job. Walking is possible from the first days but is uncomfortable for the first few weeks. Return to sport is permitted after 6 to 8 weeks. The final result is visible at 6 months.
Can a thigh lift be combined with a body lift?+
Yes, a thigh lift is frequently integrated into a body reshaping programme after massive weight loss, in combination with a body lift (circumferential trunk lift) and sometimes an arm lift. These procedures can be performed in one or several stages depending on the patient's general condition and the volumes to correct. A personalised surgical plan is established during the consultation.
Is coverage possible after massive weight loss?+
After bariatric surgery (bypass, sleeve gastrectomy) resulting in loss of more than 50% of excess weight, partial coverage of cruroplasty is possible if the skin laxity causes documented functional complications (maceration, recurrent skin infections). A prior agreement application must be submitted with your GP.
Are the results of a thigh lift long-lasting?+
Results are long-lasting provided a stable weight is maintained. Significant weight gain or loss after the procedure may alter the result. Natural skin ageing will continue, but the thighs will remain noticeably firmer and more shapely than before the operation. The final result is appreciated at 6 months.
When can sport be resumed after a thigh lift?+
Light walking is encouraged from the first days to prevent thromboembolic risk. Gentle sporting activities (excluding swimming) can be resumed after 4 to 6 weeks. Sports placing strong demands on the inner thighs (running, horse riding, combat sports) are resumed progressively from 2 months. Your surgeon will specify appropriate timelines for your particular activities during follow-up.
What is the difference between horizontal and vertical cruroplasty?+
Horizontal cruroplasty leaves a scar limited to the inguinal fold; it treats mild to moderate laxity of the upper thigh. Vertical cruroplasty adds a scar along the inner thigh, essential when laxity extends down to the knee. The choice of technique depends on the extent and location of the laxity, assessed during the consultation.

Patient Testimonials

After losing 30 kg, the skin on my thighs was very loose. The thigh lift with Dr. de Clermont-Tonnerre completely transformed that area. The scar in the inguinal fold is perfectly concealed.

Hélène

I no longer dared to wear short skirts. This procedure was a real turning point. The surgeon was very attentive during the consultation and the result is excellent. I highly recommend.

Dominique

At 58, the sagging thighs were a major source of self-consciousness. The operation went well, recovery was manageable. I am thrilled today and only regret not having done it sooner.

Françoise