Thigh Lift

By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Zeynep Sevim, on Apr 24, 2024

Thigh lift procedure is not recommended for those with an unstable weight as fluctuations can interfere with the success of the surgery results. 

Thighplasty patients need to be in good general health without any severe medical conditions. For example, patients who have diabetes, lung disease or heart disease may not be good candidates for thigh lift surgery. Individuals wanting this surgery also need to have a clear understanding of the procedure and what it can achieve.

How many trips do I need to take abroad to complete the procedure? 

You will need 1 trip abroad to complete the whole procedure and follow up with your local doctor. 

The patient may spend 1 or 2 nights in the hospital.

How long is the surgery? 

The surgery will take 1 to 2 hours.

How many days should I travel/stay abroad to do the treatment?

You will need a minimum of 1 to 2 weeks off work. 

Patients must avoid smoking for at least 2 weeks before the thighplasty surgery. They should inform their surgeons of previous surgeries, any medical conditions, and medications. Avoiding blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplementations is also very important at this stage, as they can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during the thigh lift surgery. It's a good idea for patients to have a physical examination from their GP before traveling abroad for the surgery.

The anesthesia choices for thigh lift surgery can be general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. At first, the incision areas are shaved and cleaned with betadine. After the anesthesia kicks in, the surgeon begins making the necessary incisions that he or she determined before the procedure.At this stage, several techniques can be used. One technique places an incision in the groin, extending downward and wrapping around the back of the thigh. Another technique uses an incision along the inseam and removes excess skin from the groin down to the knee.

There are two main types of thigh lift surgery: 

● Inner thigh lift surgery – the incision is made in the groin crease 

● Outer thigh lift surgery – the incision is made horizontally, just under the hip bone 

There are also alternative types of thigh lift procedures called medial, anterior, and lateral thigh lift.

After the surgeon creates the incisions, any excess skin and fat tissue from the thigh area are started to remove. Once the desired result is achieved, the incisions are closed up with dissolving stitches and the area is wrapped in bandages in order to avoid any potential infection in the thigh area. The thigh lift recovery period can begin.

The average thigh lift recovery period lasts around 5 weeks. When the patients wake up from their thigh lift surgery, their incisions will be bandaged and will most likely have drains to prevent blood and fluid from accumulating. 

Patients need to avoid any movement during the first week of the thigh lift recovery period. Sitting during the recovery period will also not be allowed because it can put pressure on incisions and compromise healing. Compression garments need to be worn during the first 2 weeks after rhinoplasty surgery. Patients can usually return to work in around 3-4 weeks, but physical activity and sitting need to be kept at a minimum, as they can lead to complications.

Thigh lift surgery risks and complications can include: 

● Infection 

● Excessive bleeding 

● Scarring 

● Wound separation 

● Revision surgery 

● Asymmetry

● Deep vein thrombosis

● Fat necrosis

Thigh lift surgery side effects can include: 

● Pain 

● Discomfort 

● Swelling 

● Numbness 

● Bleeding

● Infection

● Fluid accumulation (seroma)

Thigh lift reviews set the average success rate at 93%.

The swelling will gradually reduce during the first 2 weeks after surgery. Results will start to become visible from the second week onward but it’s important to note that patients should maintain their weight after the procedure. Just because the fatty tissue has been removed, it doesn’t mean that it can’t grow back. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help patients maintain their newfound look following their thigh lift surgery.

When Can I Resume Sports or Exercise After the Thigh Lift Procedure?

Patients can return to exercise or sports in around 6 weeks after the procedure. 

Are the Thigh Lift Scars Visible?

No, the scars are well hidden, especially if a skilled surgeon performs the surgery. The scars are located in the skin's natural folds and creases.

Can the Procedure Be Combined with Other Types of Surgery?

Yes, body contouring and tummy tuck are popular choices among patients to combine with thigh lift procedures. A thread thigh lift in which absorbable threads are used to lift the inner thighs can also be used in some particular cases.