Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

A thigh lift removes excess skin and fat from the inner or outer thighs, most commonly after significant weight loss.

What is a thigh lift?

A thigh lift addresses redundant skin and persistent fat of the thighs that cannot be improved through diet and exercise alone. Several techniques exist, with scar patterns ranging from a short scar in the groin crease through to longer vertical scars for more significant skin redundancy. The trade-off between contour and scar length is central to planning and is discussed openly at consultation.

Who considers it?

• Loose, hanging inner-thigh skin after significant weight loss
• Outer-thigh skin laxity or contour irregularity
• Chafing or skin irritation between the thighs

Thigh lift surgery suits patients at a stable weight who have realistic expectations about scarring — the scars are permanent and, depending on technique, can be extensive.

Recovery

Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights. A compression garment is worn for several weeks. Walking is encouraged early; strenuous activity is restricted for approximately six weeks. Scars mature over 12–18 months.

Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.

Risks

Specific risks include delayed wound healing (the inner thigh is a high-tension, moist area where wound problems are relatively common), widened or migrated scars, fluid collection (seroma), swelling of the lower leg (lymphoedema), asymmetry, and recurrence of skin laxity. These are discussed in detail at your consultation.

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