Because we all want smaller thighs...
A couple of months ago I put this to the test. Facebook has this great question feature that let’s you post self-designed polls on your Wall. I wanted to know: If you could have one area of your body liposuctioned, what would it be? The majority of responders (20) were evenly split between tummy (no surprise there—who wants jelly belly?) and thighs!
I admit, even with a little extra around the waist, the thighs are it on my list. There’s nothing worse than the reminder that you’re packing a little extra on the thighs in an otherwise great pair of skinny jeans! After diet and exercise, what’s a girl to do?
Honestly, it becomes a question of how much or how little change you’re looking for, downtime you have, and cash you can spare. Here are 3 general categories that hit each level, from extreme to minor contouring of the thighs.
The Thigh Lift
A thigh lift can literally reshape the thighs. It improves thigh contours and can be performed in combination with liposuction and/or surgical lifts of other parts of the body. Thigh lifts are usually reserved for patients who have experienced massive weight loss and have significant extra skin and extra fatty tissue in the thigh area. But big results like this also demand the most in downtime and of your wallet. Downtime varies from 1 to 2 weeks and the average national cost is about $4500.
Liposuction
The more traditional approach to thigh slimming comes in the way of good old fashioned liposuction. Depending on where that extra weight stacks up on your legs, popular procedures include liposuction of the inner thighs, outer thighs, or both. Liposuction is best for those with a desire for a moderate amount of fat reduction. While treating the inner thighs can improve the silhouette of the thigh and reduce rubbing, liposuction of the outer thigh aims to contour a larger area, including the posterior thigh and the adjoining buttock. Downtime is generally a week or less and the average national cost to for both is approximately $3000.
Velashape
If you’re already on the slim side and simply have desire for detail work, this high-tech FDA-cleared device may be just what the doctor ordered. Velashape is a non-invasive treatment for cellulite, perhaps most famous for being mentioned by Kim Kardashian as a procedure she's tried out for exactly that reason (yes, even Kim has cellulite, Ladies!). This device uses bi-polar radiofrequency energy and infrared light in combination with vacuum and mechanical massage to give you a smooth and tightening effect with no down time and only the possibility of minor bruising and sensitivity. Sound too good to be true? While you may be happy with your results, they require commitment. Results are temporary and require retreatment every 3 to 4 months to maintain results. Average cost: $800 for 4 treatments.
