Saddlebags is not a pure medical term. It refers to the fatty area of the lateral thigh where the posterior thigh moves upward and joins the buttocks. In most women fat deposits as they accumulate spread outward producing a visible bulge at the hip/lateral thigh area. They are referred to as saddlebags as they are believed to be comparable to that which was used to carry certain objects during horseback riding therefore saddlebags.
Saddlebags are large lateral thigh bulges of fat. They occur most frequently in women. It is believed to be related to childbearing capabilities including bony pelvic dimensions. Also, during pregnancy, the mom should accumulate fat in certain areas to facilitate the need for additional nutrition with breast-feeding. These are the theories.
Saddlebags
I have dealt with saddlebags extensively and can safely say they cannot be exercised away. Nonsurgical methods like freezing in my opinion are not effective. The best way to remove lateral thigh fat or saddlebags is with liposuction. Therefore, in my opinion, there is no substitute for surgery.
With very extensive saddlebags that are not treatable by liposuction alone, I have done direct excision. This technique allows me to sculpt that lateral thigh optimally. Lateral thigh treatment is often done as part of overall body contouring procedures which may include the breast and the abdomen.
Lateral thighs can be addressed very successfully after weight loss and pregnancy and often as stated in conjunction with other body contouring procedures. It’s amazing how reducing the lateral thighs appropriately can add significantly to the overall figure of the female patient.
THOMAS TREVISANI, MD
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
