Filling the Gap: Aesthetic Preferences and Demographic Variations in Thigh-Gap Proportions Among the General Population

Abstract Background Driven by the influence of social media platforms, the “thigh gap” has emerged as a beauty ideal in modern culture. Despite its prevalence in popular culture, there is no scientific evidence to validate the thigh gap as a realistic or universally attainable beauty standard. Objectives The aim of the authors of this study is to evaluate the general public's perception of thigh-gap aesthetics, specifically examining preferences for varying thigh-gap widths and the influence of demographic factors on these preferences. Methods Four model images of varying thigh-gap widths and thigh gap-to-hip ratios (TGHRs) of 0.19, 0.09, 0.04, and 0.02 were created and presented to participants in an online survey using public crowdsourcing. Participants rated the attractiveness of these images and ranked them in order of preference. Demographic data, including gender, race, sexual orientation, and income, were collected to assess subgroup trends. Results A TGHR of 0.09 was rated as the most attractive by the general population, with preferences for moderate thigh gaps consistently emerging across most demographic groups. Significant variations in preferences were observed based on income, race, and sexual orientation, indicating the role of cultural and socioeconomic factors in shaping aesthetic ideals. Extreme thigh gaps and the absence of a thigh gap were rated as less attractive. Conclusions These findings suggest a general preference for moderate thigh gaps with a TGHR of 0.09 over extreme or absent thigh gaps. Our findings highlight the importance of understanding demographic differences in aesthetic preferences to tailor body contouring and reconstructive procedures that meet patient expectations while maintaining natural proportions. Level of Evidence: 5 (Therapeutic)