Thigh Lift surgery, also known as Thighplasty, can help improve the appearance of your thighs. The procedure is beneficial for those who have experienced significant weight loss, leading to excess, sagging skin around the thigh area. It’s also popular if you have found that ageing or genetics have contributed to a loss of skin elasticity and firmness in your thighs.
A Thigh Lift aims to address excess skin, fat & tissue particularly in the inner thigh and help tighten the skin on the outer thigh. A Thigh Lift works by tightening the skin and underlying tissues of the thigh and re-suspending them from their original attachments (after excising or reefing the stretched elements). It can be combined with Liposuction to remove stubborn fat pockets if further contouring is needed despite adequate weight loss. In this way, a rejuvenated appearance of the thigh is achieved.
A Thigh Lift is NOT a method purely to remove excess thigh fat (diet and exercise are the best methods for this) but more to address the sagging skin left behind after weight loss. Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan preforms Thigh Lift surgery for his patients to help them get achieve their desired appearance.
2 hours
General
2 hours
6 weeks
Results will visible at 3 months but skin quality will continue to improve in appearance and feel for up to 12 months.
Thigh Lift Before & After Photos
Benefits of Thigh Lift Surgery
Thigh Lift surgery offers several aesthetic and psychological benefits, including:
- Improved Contour and Shape: The primary benefit is the more youthful, contoured appearance of the thighs. The procedure removes excess skin and fat, resulting in smoother skin and better-proportioned contours of the thighs and lower body.
- Enhanced Comfort: Excess skin can cause discomfort and chafing, especially during physical activities. A Thigh Lift can alleviate these issues, increasing comfort and mobility.
- Increased Confidence: You can experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence after the surgery, as you feel more comfortable in your skin and clothing.
- Better Fit for Clothing: Clothes often fit better after a Thigh Lift, as the procedure eliminates the extra skin that can make fitting into certain styles difficult.
- Long-Lasting Results: When accompanied by a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, the results of a Thigh Lift can be long-lasting, giving you years of enhanced body confidence.
Can Thigh Lift Surgery Help You?
Ideal candidates for Thigh Lift surgery are those who:
- Have Stable Weight: Individuals should be at a stable weight, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the results of the surgery.
- Good Overall Health: Candidates should be in good general health, free from medical conditions that could impair healing or increase surgery risks.
- Non-smokers: Smoking can hinder the healing process, so non-smokers or those who can cease smoking for an extended period both before and after the surgery are preferred.
- Realistic Expectations: You’ll need to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. A Thigh Lift can enhance your appearance and self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily match your ideal body image or cause other people to treat you differently.
- Commitment to a Healthy Lifestyle: A commitment to a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and fitness, is crucial for maintaining the results of the surgery in the long term.
Different Types of Thigh Lift Surgery
Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift:
This is the most popular type of Thigh Lift surgery. It targets the inner thigh. The surgeon makes an incision in the groin area, extending downward and wrapping around the back of the thigh. This type is ideal for those with moderate amounts of skin and fat in the inner thigh.
Outer (Lateral) Thigh Lift:
This procedure focuses on the outer thigh and is often combined with a Buttock Lift. The incision is made at the top of the leg, where the lower edge of a bikini bottom would be. This lift is suitable for those who have excess skin after significant weight loss.
Bilateral Thigh Lift
This type targets the front and outside of the leg. The incision is made at the top of the leg, near the groin, running in a V shape. This lift is beneficial for those who have lost skin elasticity due to ageing or moderate weight loss.
Mini Thigh Lift
A Mini Thigh Lift is a less invasive procedure that targets the upper part of the inner thigh. It involves smaller incisions and is ideal for patients who have less excess skin and fat.
How Is Thigh Lift Surgery Performed?
Thigh Lift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia and can take 2 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. The general steps of the surgery are as follows:
- Anaesthesia: You are given general anaesthesia to ensure comfort during the surgical procedure.
- Making the Incision: Depending on the type of Thigh Lift, Anthony will make the appropriate incision. For an inner thigh lift, the incision is usually made in the groin area, extending downward and possibly wrapping around the back of the thigh. For other types of thigh lifts, the incision patterns may vary.
- Removing Excess Skin and Fat: Anthony removes excess skin and may use Liposuction to remove excess fat to help reshape and contour the thigh area.
- Closing the Incisions: Once the reshaping is complete, Anthony closes the incisions with sutures. This step may involve deep support sutures within underlying tissues to help form the newly shaped contours.
- Observation and Recovery: After the surgery, you are taken to a recovery area where you are closely monitored. Drainage tubes may be placed to remove excess fluid, and the legs may be wrapped in compression garments to minimise swelling.
The specific surgical techniques used during Thigh Lift surgery can vary based on your individual needs and Anthony’s preferred methods.
The choice of Thigh Lift type depends on your specific needs, the amount of excess skin and fat, and the desired outcome. Anthony can provide advice on the most appropriate type of Thigh Lift during a consultation.
It’s important to discuss all aspects of the surgery, including the type of incisions and the expected outcome with Anthony at your consultations.
Thigh Lift Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery period and aftercare are important for the success of Thigh Lift surgery. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Recovery: Immediately after surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Pain and discomfort can be managed with prescribed medications. You are also encouraged to walk as soon as you are able, usually within a day of surgery, to promote blood circulation.
- Postoperative Care: Anthony provides specific instructions for wound care, which may include how to care for drains, signs of infection to watch for, and when to return for follow-up appointments.
How Long is Recovery After Thigh Lift Surgery?
The procedure requires an overnight stay in hospital. When combined with other procedures a two-night stay may be required. For the two weeks following the operation, you will be restricted in your ability walk long distances (though it is essential that you mobilise as much as you can to reduce any risk of DVT formation).
You will need to wear a support garment that will run from your waist to your ankles (think a very elasticated pair of leggings) for six weeks following the operation. Depending on the extent of your procedure you should be able to return to work between two and three weeks after your surgery, by which time your wounds should have healed. You should be able to drive after a similar period of time. By six weeks you should be able to return to all normal activities.
How Much Is Thigh Lift Surgery in the UK?
The total cost of Thigh Lift surgery in the UK depends on the extent of the procedure being performed and can range from £5,500 to £17,500.
These prices are influenced by numerous factors including the surgeon’s training & experience, the complexity of the operation, the type of anaesthesia, the facility used and the post-op and follow-up care you receive. After your consultation, you will be given an estimate of the costs for a procedure tailored to your needs. It’s also important to ensure that all these necessary items are listed on the quote you receive.
As every patient is different, you will receive a customised quote valid for 3 months after your thorough consultation.
For a rough estimate please contact Anthony’s team by phone or email.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
How does Thigh Lift surgery work?
Thigh lift surgery, also known as Thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the thighs by removing excess skin, fat, and tissue to create a smoother, more toned contour. It is typically performed on patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, experienced skin laxity due to ageing, or have undergone bariatric surgery.
It is essential to consult with a certified plastic surgeon to determine if Thigh Lift surgery is the right option based on individual goals and medical considerations.
What are the Thigh Lift scars like?
There are two main types of Thigh Lift, which have different patterns of scars:
- A limited incision Medial Thigh Lift: this will address small to moderate amounts of excess skin in the inner upper thigh region only, leaving a well-hidden scar in the groin crease.
- A Full Thigh Lift: this addresses both the vertical and circumferential skin excess on the inner thigh and the front of the thigh. The scar will run from the groin to the knee in the same line as a trouser seam, with an additional scar in the crease of the groin (like a medial thigh lift).
Does using a Shewee help recovery after Thigh Lift?
The groin is one of the most difficult areas on the body to keep clean! After a Thigh Lift, sitting down can be uncomfortable (though lying down or standing is not a problem). This makes going for a wee (if you are a lady) whilst trying to not to get your wounds wet difficult initially.
A shewee is a great way to solve the problem (sheewee.com), but it does take a bit of practice beforehand to master using it (therefore it is worth purchasing one before the operation and becoming accustomed to using it with ease so that post-operatively you are confident in its use).
How well do Thigh Lifts work?
You will see an instant change in the shape of your thighs following the procedure, however, as the scars mature the shape will change a little, and there will inevitably be a degree of stretching of the tissues with the effects of gravity. The final results will be apparent between nine to 12 months after surgery and are long-lasting.
What’s the difference between a Thigh Lift and Thigh Liposuction?
Thigh lift surgery (thighplasty) and Thigh Liposuction are both cosmetic procedures aimed at improving the appearance of the thighs, but they address different concerns and achieve different outcomes:
Thigh Lift surgery is primarily focused on addressing excess skin and tissue, while Thigh Liposuction targets localised fat deposits. Depending on an individual’s specific concerns and goals, a plastic surgeon may recommend one procedure over the other or a combination of both to achieve the desired results.
It is essential to consult with a certified plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on individual needs and considerations.
If you’re interested in undergoing either procedure call 0117 325 5034 to arrange a consultation.
What are the Risks and Complications of Thigh Lift Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, Thigh Lift surgery carries risks and potential complications. Patients should be aware of these to make an informed decision:
- Scarring: Incisions from Thigh Lift surgery will result in scars, although they are placed in less visible areas. The appearance of scars can vary and may be more noticeable in some patients.
- Asymmetry: There’s a possibility of slight asymmetry between the two thighs, although surgeons aim to minimise this.
- Infection and Bleeding: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of infection and bleeding. Following postoperative care instructions can help reduce these risks.
- Poor Wound Healing: Some patients may experience poor wound healing, which can lead to more visible scars or the need for additional surgery.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Complications: Although rare, there’s a risk of blood clots forming in the legs, which can travel to the lungs and be life-threatening.
- Numbness or Changes in Skin Sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation may occur in the areas where surgery was performed.
It’s important to discuss these risks thoroughly with Anthony and to understand that while Thigh Lift surgery can enhance appearance and self-confidence, it’s not without potential complications.
Medical References about Thigh Lift Surgery
- Medial Thigh Contouring in Massive Weight Loss
- Risk Factors for Complications after J Medial Thighplasty following Massive Weight Loss
- Medial Thighplasty: Horizontal and Vertical Procedures after Massive Weight Loss
- Thighplasty: improving aesthetics through revival of the medial, horizontal procedure: A safe and scar-saving option
- Medial Thigh Contouring After Massive Weight Loss: The Liposuction-Assisted Medial Thigh Lift (LAMeT)
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
Fed Up with Excess Skin After Weight Loss with my Gastric Band. Bristol, GB
I attended a routine gastric band appointment and brought up I’d like a tummy tuck to remove excess skin. The nurse asked me to hang on, left the room for a few minutes and returned with a consultant. Mr Anthony MacQuillan from that moment on made me feel so relaxed and comfortable, he’s such a caring, happy man. I attended a consultation and booked my surgery without hesitation. On the day of the surgery he came round with his big smile and talked me through everything. When I came round he was there to tell me everything had gone well and he would see me the following morning. Next day he checked everything over and told me to take an extra day rest in the hospital. The follow up appointments and care from himself and his staff were 1st class. The results from the surgery are amazing I’m really pleased with it, the scar is already fading. I have so much more confidence now I’m really happy I met Mr MacQuillan. I’ve recommended him to a few others one of which has also had surgery that she’s really happy with. I’m now saving for a thigh lift and there is only one surgeon I will be contacting. Thank you so much Anthony MacQuillan.
I will be forever grateful to Anthony and his team for giving me back a normal body. He is by far the most loveliest, kind, caring and professional surgeon I’ve ever known or had perform surgery on me. I’ve had 30 surgery’s to date due to cancer since 2014 and he is the best.
Right from the moment I made contact with his secretary, Mandy to the day of surgery with the theatre staff and nursing team who took care of me. Everyone was absolutely amazing. I was so well taken care of. Nothing was a problem. In fact I was looked after so well I felt I was in a 5* hotel not a hospital.
I had a abdominoplasty and a mons lift. I had a gastric sleeve in December 2018 and lost 7 stone in weight. When I went to see Anthony I explained how complex my medical history was. Anthony listened to everything I said, he was honest about what could be achieved, about what complications we could run into. I decided I liked him immediately and cancelled my other consultations with other surgeons. I booked to have surgery with him. When I came around and saw the results I was so overwhelmed with joy that I cried with relief and happiness. 2 weeks on now after the surgery and I cannot thank Anthony and his team enough. I will be forever grateful to him for giving me back the confidence I never thought I would ever have. I think Anthony is my hero. The nicest man I know. Xxx
Choosing Anthony for Your Thighplasty (Thigh Lift) Needs
Anthony’s dedication to excellence ensures that your Thighplasty journey is supported by expertise, compassion, and personalized care. We understand that choosing to undergo Thigh Lift surgery is a significant decision, and our team is dedicated to providing you with detailed information, support, and guidance throughout the process. From the initial consultation to your recovery and beyond, we are here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals for your thighs in a safe and caring environment.
To explore how Thigh Lift surgery can help you achieve the thigh contour you desire, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Anthony today.
Further Reading about Body Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
Learn more about other surgeries Anthony preforms, including;
