Thigh Lift Thigh lift or thighplasty is surgery that removes excess skin and fat from your thighs. The goal of the procedure is to improve the appearance of your thighs by removing the “dimpled look” produced by cellulite. The incision does leave a scar at the hip, but it fades in time and can be hidden by a bathing suit. A thigh lift usually lasts several hours and can be an outpatient procedure or require a short hospital stay. You may be given local or general anesthesia.