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Thigh lift

WHAT IS A THIGH LIFT PROCEDURE?

Thigh Lift is a specialist aesthetic (cosmetic) surgery procedure performed to permanently remove excessive fat and skin to improve the contour and firmness of the upper thigh area and lower buttock area. 

WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM A THIGH LIFT?

• Men and women who have excessive loose skin and fat on their thighs that will not respond to normal diet and exercise.
• Women who loose skin elasticity following significant weight gain, weight loss or pregnancy.

HOW IS A THIGH LIFT PROCEDURE PERFORMED?

Although techniques for Thigh Lift surgery vary slightly between surgeons, a standard procedure usually involves the surgeon making an oval-shaped incision at the top of the thigh and removing a section of skin and any surplus fat, followed by the remaining skin edge being sutured together.

Thigh Lift surgery requires a conventional incision technique which will leave a sizable and visible scar which will run around the entire circumference of the upper thigh.

Following surgery the incision wound is covered with an absorbent dressing and the new surgery is supported with a firm elastic compression garment, which helps control swelling and bruising and supports the new thigh wound as it is healing. It is common for two or more surgical drains to be left in place for a day or two following surgery to drain away any early post-operative discharge. 

This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic (you will be asleep) and takes around 2 hours to perform, dependant on the size and complexity of each case.

Patients usually stay in hospital for two nights post-operatively to recover.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY LIKE?

A Thigh Lift is classified as major surgery and the operated area is usually tender, bruised, tight and painful for several weeks following surgery. Analgesic tablets (painkillers) are always provided for any discomfort and patients are encouraged to stay as gently mobile as possible during their early recovery stage to help improve their circulation and avoid post-operative complications such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) from developing. This in turn will also help diminish residual swelling and bruising and aid a more speedy recovery.

Any post-operative drains are removed before discharge and stitches are usually removed around 10 - 14 days after surgery. In the early days following discharge, patients are strongly advised to avoid any excessive level of impact activity that would put undue strain on the newly operated areas, although gently walking progressive distances is actively encouraged.

In order to help the newly shaped thigh incisions heal closely together, patients are usually advised to wear their elastic support garment day and night for one week and then for a minimum of a further six weeks during the daytime.

Patients will be advised to take a specific amount of recovery time away from work, dependent on the type of work they perform, but it is usual to take around two weeks off to rest and recover at home.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THIGH LIFT SURGERY?

Risks such as bleeding, infection, delayed healing, DVT, alteration in sensitivity and scarring will all be discussed openly at consultation, as well as our scrupulous efforts to manage and minimise these risks to their lowest possible potential.

Due to the additional healing and infection risks experienced with patients who smoke, smokers may be precluded from having surgery until they cease or substantially reduce their daily cigarette intake.

Although Thigh Lift surgery is regularly performed without any complications, it is very important that all candidates are fully aware of both the benefits and risks of undertaking this type of major aesthetic surgery, especially related to the likely scarring that will be evident after the surgery is healed.

All surgery, no mater how expertly or carefully it is performed, carries risks and the importance of a full evaluation and consultation to discuss your understanding and expectations in relation to these risks cannot be over emphasised.

HOW DO I FIND OUT IF I AM A SUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR THIGH LIFT SURGERY?

At Spire Methley Park Hospital our surgeons will carry out a full evaluation of your individual needs and circumstances and provide you with a comprehensive verbal and written explanation of any recommended treatment or surgery.

Our Expert Consultant Plastic Surgeons understand the importance of the decision you are making when contemplating complex Thigh Lift surgery. Throughout your consultation you will be encouraged to ask as many questions as you wish and to take your time in making a decision to proceed with any treatment.