Thigh Lift

What is thigh lift surgery?
Thigh lift surgery is a surgical procedure in which excess fat and sagging skin on the inner thigh area are removed and the tissues are tightened and strengthened.

What is the purpose of thigh lift surgery?
The purpose of thigh lift surgery is to remove excess sagging skin on the inner thigh area, especially when standing upright or when the legs are opened to the sides, and to achieve a smoother and more aesthetic appearance.

Is thigh lift surgery a difficult operation, and how long does it take?
Thigh lift surgery is not a difficult or painful operation. It is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 2.5 hours.

How is thigh lift surgery performed?
Starting from the groin area and extending along the inner thigh, vertical or horizontal elliptical incisions are made and the sagging skin and subcutaneous fat tissue are removed. The remaining tissues are then brought together in a single line using hidden subcutaneous sutures. Depending on the surgeon’s preference and the patient’s needs, the incision may be extended toward the lower buttock area or toward the inner knee in order to reduce skin folds. In this way, excess bulging is prevented.

What are the possible risks and complications of thigh lift surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, bruising-swelling, asymmetry, uneven appearance and scarring after thigh lift surgery. These risks will be minimized as much as possible with the appropriate approach of your surgeon and by the patient strictly following the recommendations.

Are there any side effects of thigh lift surgery?
Thigh lift surgery does not have any specific side effects, and the surgical risk is not higher than that of other aesthetic surgeries.

Will there be scars after thigh lift surgery?
In the thigh lift method, a line-shaped surgical scar forms on the inner thigh, extending from the groin along the inner thigh and sometimes toward the inner knee. The visibility of these scars decreases over time, although in some patients they may remain noticeable.

How long do the effects of thigh lift surgery last, and will I need another operation in the future?
In most cases, the effects of thigh lift surgery last for many years.

What should be done before thigh lift surgery?
Before thigh lift surgery, our doctor evaluates the patient and a plan is made regarding the procedure to be performed. The surgery date is decided. As with all other surgeries, smoking should be stopped 2 weeks before surgery. Blood-thinning medications, herbal teas, vitamins and weight-loss medications should not be used starting 1 week before surgery. Only medications that the patient needs to use because of existing diseases should be taken with the doctor’s knowledge. You will be informed about how many hours you need to fast on the day of surgery.

Why is it important to stop smoking before thigh lift surgery?
Since smoking significantly affects wound healing, it is strongly recommended that you do not smoke for 15 days before and 15 days after surgery. The patient should be aware that smoking is one of the main causes of poor healing.

How should we sleep after thigh lift surgery?
After thigh lift surgery, in order to prevent swelling from increasing and to allow it to decrease over time, you should sleep in a slightly inclined position with 2-3 pillows under your head, and small pillows under your lower back and knees so that the thigh area remains relaxed without tension. After 4 weeks, the patient may sleep in any position.

How is dressing performed after thigh lift surgery?
As long as the tapes applied during surgery are not removed, no additional dressing is required. There may be minimal leakage in the dressing area. The tapes are removed after 20 days. After that, no dressing is required. Your doctor may recommend creams for the wound line.

When can I return to work after thigh lift surgery?
After thigh lift surgery, your tissues will have healed sufficiently within 10 days. However, in most cases, completing 14 days is sufficient before going out in public and returning to work.

When can I start exercising after thigh lift surgery?
For the first 3 days after thigh lift surgery, you are generally advised to rest, walk around the house and perform simple daily activities. After 3 days, you may take short and careful walks outside. However, lifting weights and strenuous exercise are not recommended during the first weeks. Generally, all types of sports activities are allowed after 2 months.

Will I need to wear a compression garment after thigh lift surgery?
After thigh lift surgery, a compression garment and bandages will be applied over the dressing to provide pressure to the area.

Will the stitches be removed after thigh lift surgery?
Hidden absorbable sutures are used in thigh lift surgery, so there is no need for stitch removal.

Is thigh lift surgery very painful?
Some pain is expected after thigh lift surgery. However, most patients state that their pain decreases significantly within a few days and that the pain is minimal when they regularly use the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers.

When can I take a shower after thigh lift surgery?
During the first days after surgery, the wound areas should not be wet. Generally, showering is allowed after 7 days. Extremely hot or extremely cold water is not recommended during the early period.

When can I swim in the pool or sea after thigh lift surgery?
It is recommended to wait 2 months before swimming in the pool or sea.

When can I travel after thigh lift surgery?
After thigh lift surgery, short-distance road travel can be made after 5 days. For a 1-2 hour flight, it is appropriate to wait until 7 days have passed.

How long should sexual intercourse be avoided after thigh lift surgery?
During sexual intercourse, blood pressure increases and muscle tension occurs. Since this may cause unwanted bleeding and pain, it is recommended to wait 3 weeks before sexual intercourse.

When can I start sunbathing or use a solarium after thigh lift surgery?
After thigh lift surgery, sunbathing and solarium use are not appropriate for the first 3-4 months because the surgical areas may be affected and the scars may become darker.

How much does thigh lift surgery cost?
In order to provide clear information about the cost of thigh lift surgery, the patient’s complaints and aesthetic expectations need to be evaluated objectively, and the procedures required need to be determined. Pricing information will be provided after the examination.

If you have any questions regarding surgeries or would like to be evaluated by Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Fatih Söylemez, you can request an appointment via WhatsApp or Contact Form now.