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Thigh Lift Surgery (thighplasty)

People looking to reduce excess skin and, in some cases fat, on their thighs will benefit from thigh lift surgery, also known as thighplasty. The procedure is designed to tighten the skin of the inner thighs and reshape the upper leg, resulting in a smoother appearance and improved balance to the contours of the lower body.

Reasons to Consider a Thigh Lift

Thigh lift surgery is excellent for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and have resultant folds of excess skin that cause chafing and discomfort from rubbing when walking. Excess skin may also arise as part of the natural ageing process or as a result of pregnancy. The procedure can help to reduce the incidence of fungal or bacterial infections occurring in the skin folds, and can minimise stretch marks that commonly appear on the thighs and buttock area as a result of weight fluctuations.

Considerations prior to Thigh Lift Surgery

As with all cosmetic procedures, thigh lift surgery is a personalised operation. Dr Turner will take the time to discuss your expectations and goals for thigh lift surgery and will develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual circumstances, aiming for an outcome that aligns with your needs. Before you decide to have the operation, we will ensure you fully understand the risks involved and any complications that may arise. Thigh lift surgery is best approached when you have reached your ideal weight and have managed to maintain it for an extended period.

Thigh Lift Procedure

Where the incision is made for the surgery depends on the individual case. Running vertically up the inner thigh, the incision is placed either at the fold where the thigh meets the groin, or it may extend along the groin crease. Scarring from the surgery will fade over several months. Liposuction techniques can also be used in conjunction with thigh lift surgery to reduce the amount of fat in the area, bringing greater benefits from the procedure. It is not a substitute for weight loss or exercise, and suitability varies depending on individual circumstances.

Potential Risks and Complications

Modern thigh lift surgery (thighplasty) is generally safe, but it does have the potential for risks and complications to occur. Specific risks and complications associated with thigh lift surgery may include visible scarring and distortion of the genitalia’s contour and appearance, especially in women. For more general and specific risks and complications of thigh lift surgery, please click here to download.

Thigh Lift Surgery Recovery

The operation involves a general anaesthetic and is usually a two-three night stay in hospital. A compression garment, such as a pair of tight cycling shorts, is recommended to be worn for six weeks post-surgery to assist the healing process. In most cases, patients are feeling well and are mobile enough to return to work and other normal activities in two to three weeks after the operation. Strenuous exercise and sports, swimming and heavy lifting will need to be avoided until advised by your surgeon. Our team will regularly meet with you post-operatively to ensure you are recovering as expected.

Book a consultation with Dr Turner’s team to talk about thigh lift surgery and the techniques that will help to reshape your thighs.

Read further information about thigh lift surgery on the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons' website here