For years, the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) has reigned supreme as the go-to surgery for fuller, curvier contours. But lately, a new procedure is stealing the spotlight—and it’s turning heads for all the right reasons. The Miami Thong Lift is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about body contouring options among patients who want more definition, less volume, and a sculpted silhouette that stuns from every angle. If you’re hearing the buzz and wondering what it’s all about, here’s your guide to the trendier, tighter alternative to the BBL.
What Is the Miami Thong Lift?
The Miami Thong Lift is a surgical body contouring procedure designed to lift, tighten, and reshape the buttocks and outer thigh area. Rather than focusing on adding volume like a BBL, the goal here is to sculpt the lower body for a more defined, elevated, and hourglass-like shape. It’s especially popular among patients who want to highlight their natural curves and improve skin laxity without undergoing fat grafting.
The procedure specifically addresses sagging in the lower buttock area, often caused by weight loss, aging, or a general loss of tone. By removing excess skin and suspending the underlying tissue, the Miami Thong Lift enhances the transition between the lower back, glutes, and outer thighs—creating a smoother, lifted contour.
Miami Thong Lift vs. BBL: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, the Miami Thong Lift and the BBL might seem similar—but they’re designed for very different goals. Here’s a breakdown:
- BBL enhances volume using fat transfer, typically from the abdomen or flanks.
- Miami Thong Lift removes and repositions tissue to lift and shape the buttocks and hips.
- BBL is best for patients seeking a rounder, fuller backside.
- The thong lift is ideal for patients looking to tighten and sculpt, especially after weight loss or aging-related sagging.
- Recovery for both includes some downtime, but the Miami Thong Lift typically has a shorter healing period and doesn’t require fat harvesting.
Another important distinction: the Miami Thong Lift focuses on the skin and soft tissue, not on fat redistribution. It may be especially appropriate for patients with thinner frames who don’t have enough donor fat for a traditional BBL.
If you’re more concerned with shape and lift than fullness, the thong lift may be the better match.
Why It’s Called the “Thong” Lift
The name might raise eyebrows, but it’s actually quite literal. The Miami Thong Lift is designed to place all incisions within the gluteal cleft—the natural crease between the buttocks. This approach allows surgeons to lift and tighten the lower buttocks and outer thighs while keeping scars fully concealed, even in minimal clothing or swimwear.
Unlike a traditional full buttock lift, which may require a longer, more visible “butterfly” incision across the top of the buttocks, the Miami Thong Lift offers a discreet alternative. The incision placement not only hides any evidence of surgery but also allows for precise tissue lifting to enhance the contour and definition of the lower body.
For patients who want a sculpted, lifted appearance without visible scars, the Miami Thong Lift delivers both refinement and discretion.
Who Is a Candidate for the Miami Thong Lift?
This lift is ideal for patients who:
- Have mild to moderate loose or sagging skin on the buttocks or outer thighs
- Have experienced significant weight loss
- Are not good candidates for fat transfer or don’t desire added volume
- Want a more sculpted, defined silhouette
- Are in good health and have realistic expectations
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, ideal candidates also include those who have lost elasticity in the skin due to aging or sun damage, and those who wish to restore a youthful appearance to the gluteal area.1
If you’re unsure whether this procedure is right for you, a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon can help determine the best fit for your body goals.
What to Expect from the Procedure and Recovery
The Miami Thong Lift is typically performed under general anesthesia. During surgery, the surgeon removes excess skin and repositions underlying tissue to lift and firm the area. Some patients may also choose to combine the thong lift with liposuction to further refine their contours.
Recovery involves rest, limited movement, and compression garments to support healing. Most patients can return to light activities within 2–3 weeks, with full recovery taking about 6 weeks. Your surgeon will provide personalized post-op care instructions to help you heal smoothly and achieve your best results.
Patients typically experience some swelling, bruising, and tightness during the first few weeks. Full results gradually emerge over several months as tissues settle and scars fade.
Results: What Does a Miami Thong Lift Look Like?
Results from the Miami Thong Lift are designed to be sleek and sculpted—not overly dramatic. You can expect to see:
- A lifted, firmer appearance of the buttocks
- Smoother contours along the hips and outer thighs
- Enhanced definition of the waist-to-hip ratio
Many patients report that their clothing fits better, and they feel more confident wearing swimsuits, lingerie, or fitted pants. The results are considered long-lasting, especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle and stable weight.
Because this procedure focuses on repositioning tissue rather than adding volume, the results are natural-looking and long-lasting—perfect for patients who want shape without exaggeration.
Miami-Made, Vegas-Perfect
While the name may give a nod to South Florida, this standout procedure is gaining traction well beyond Miami—and it’s available right here in Las Vegas. At Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery, patients benefit from expert surgical care and personalized plans that put safety, precision, and aesthetic outcomes first.
Ready for a Sculpted Silhouette?
If the idea of a more lifted, contoured look sounds like what you’ve been searching for, the Miami Thong Lift might be your next step. Schedule your consultation with Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery to explore your options and see how this procedure can be tailored to you.
Sources
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. An alternative to the Brazilian butt lift: What is the Miami thong lift? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/an-alternative-to-the-brazilian-butt-lift-what-is-the-miami-thong-lift#. Accessed April 22, 2025.