Thigh Lift
What is a thigh lift?
A thigh lift is a surgical procedure performed to address excess skin and fat in the thigh area, often resulting from significant weight loss or the natural aging process. While primarily an aesthetic concern, it can also have a medical aspect if excess loose skin causes irritation due to friction. The procedure involves lifting the thighs, tightening the skin, and removing fat deposits.
Both women and men can be candidates for a thigh lift, with the most common patients being those who have previously undergone bariatric surgery. After the procedure, they can confidently appear at the beach with lifted, toned thighs and rejuvenated, tightened skin.
Who are ideal candidates for a thigh lift?
- Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss
- Those looking to improve the proportion and appearance of their thighs
- Patients seeking a long-term solution for loose thigh skin
How is a thigh lift performed?
Before scheduling a thigh lift surgery, a consultation is conducted during which the patient and surgeon discuss the best approach to achieve the desired effect. During this time, the surgeon marks the areas where incisions will be made and explains which portions of excess skin and fat will be removed during the procedure.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
For patients with minimal excess skin and fat, a short incision is made, hidden in the groin area, to ensure the scar is inconspicuous. This technique focuses on lifting only the inner (medial) thighs. For an outer (lateral) thigh lift, an incision is made from the groin to the inner part of the knee. The skin is then tightened, and the excess is removed.
This procedure can be combined with liposuction. The result is lifted thighs with smooth, taut skin.
The operation typically lasts about 2 hours. Depending on the extent of the surgery, the patient may stay in the hospital for one day.
To reduce swelling and bruising and to shorten the recovery period, the patient wears a compression garment shaped like Bermuda shorts for 4 weeks.
The results are immediately visible, but the final effect is achieved once the swelling fully subsides, usually within one to two months. With consistent weight maintenance, the results of a thigh lift are long-lasting.
What preparation is needed for a thigh lift surgery?
All preoperative preparations are conducted at our clinic and are included in the price. These include laboratory tests such as a complete blood count, basic biochemistry, coagulation factors, blood group, and Rh factor.
It also includes:
- Internal medicine and cardiology evaluation with ECG
- Chest X-ray with a radiologist’s report
- Clinical evaluation by an anesthesiologist
You will need to stop taking aspirin, vitamin C, or other supplements at least one week before the procedure.
It is important to refrain from consuming any food or drinks for at least 12 hours before the scheduled surgery. You must remove any nail polish or gel polish from your fingernails, as well as completely remove makeup, piercings, and jewelry. Avoid applying body lotion for 4–6 hours before the procedure. Before the surgery, ensure that the groin and thigh areas are depilated.
You should bring personal hygiene items, a photo ID (ID card or passport), complete medical documentation, and any medications that are part of your chronic therapy.
What is the recovery like after a thigh lift?
In the first few days after surgery, the patient should rest in bed and limit movement to short walks while avoiding climbing stairs. Prolonged sitting and sleeping on the stomach should also be avoided. Two to three days post-surgery, patients can start showering. If there is pain, it can be managed with pain medication recommended by the surgeon.
Stitches are typically removed between the 10th and 14th day after the procedure. Most patients return to work around this time. Afterward, they can engage in longer walks and light household activities.
Strenuous physical activities, gym workouts, and running should be avoided for 6–8 weeks following the surgery.
Are there risks associated with a thigh lift?
Rare complications of a thigh lift include keloid scar formation in individuals prone to them, as well as prolonged swelling and bruising.
Risks of bleeding, infection, bruising, and delayed wound healing are minimized when the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon in completely sterile conditions, following strict protocols, as is the standard at our clinic.
FAQ
Are the results of a thigh lift permanent?
Yes, the results are generally long-lasting, especially if patients maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.
What are the benefits of this procedure?
- Significant improvement in the shape and contours of the thighs
- Reduction in discomfort caused by friction
- Boost in self-confidence and satisfaction with one’s appearance
What are the risks of Thigh Lifting?
Thigh lift, like any surgical procedure, involves certain risks that are important to consider. Among the most common risks are infection, bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, and the possibility of visible scarring. There is also a risk of improper wound healing, which can lead to asymmetry or unsatisfactory aesthetic results.
What are the risks of a thigh lift?
Like any surgical procedure, a thigh lift carries certain risks that should be considered. The most common risks include infection, bleeding, and the potential for visible scarring. There is also a risk of improper wound healing, which could lead to asymmetry or unsatisfactory aesthetic results.
How is a thigh lift performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The incision can be placed in the groin area for minor corrections or extend along the inner thighs for more extensive interventions. The surgeon removes excess skin and tissue and may combine the procedure with liposuction if needed.
How long does a thigh lift surgery take?
The duration of the surgery depends on the extent of the procedure and typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours.
What is the recovery like after a thigh lift?
Patients are usually discharged the day after surgery. Swelling and bruising are common in the first few weeks, and light physical activity is possible after two weeks. Full recovery takes several months.
What kind of scars does a thigh lift leave?
Scars are minimally visible, as they are usually located in the groin or along the inner thighs. Over time, they fade and become less noticeable.
Can a thigh lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes, a thigh lift is often combined with liposuction or a buttock lift to achieve a comprehensive body contouring effect.
When can I return to daily activities after a thigh lift?
Most patients can resume light activities after two weeks, while more strenuous activities and exercise are typically permitted after 6–8 weeks.
