According to Triple Board Certified Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Raffi Hovsepian, the “thigh gap” surgery is on the rise and a new leading trend amongst women.
What is a thigh gap?
A thigh gap in women is a space between the inner thighs when standing upright.
Why do women aspire to have a thigh gap?
Some women aspire to have a thigh gap because they believe it will increase their attractiveness, femininity or fragility. Some go as far as to say it symbolizes "the ideal body shape".
What are the origins of the thigh gap phenomenon?
The thigh gap has always been around. However, as a plastic surgeon, I have seen this phenomenon on the rise in the past two years. In 2012 the idea of the ‘thigh gap’ received major attention during the yearly Victoria Secret Fashion Show. Since then, a social media revolution has occurred where women are posting their thigh gap pictures on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. In addition, we have seen magazine publication and even book publications about the “ideal thigh gap.”
How does one achieve the thigh gap?
Few women have this shape naturally. Some young women have resorted to extreme dieting to attain such an appearance. As a physician I am always concerned that young women may develop a eating disorder by trying to obtain this body shape. Most women undergo plastic surgery in order to try to obtain the result. I routinely perform this procedure two to three times a week on both young and older patients. I use my advanced techniques in liposuction to attain a natural result though a meniscal incision (access point). The recovery and discomfort is quick and minimal. Most our patient are back in the gym within 24-72 hours.