Thigh Lift

Why opt for thigh lifting?

The main indication for thigh lifting is the relaxation and sagging of the skin observed on the inner surface of the thighs, as well as in the area of the buttocks. This relaxation can be the result of massive weight loss, the previous liposuction in the area with simultaneously reduced skin tightening, or finally due to age.

The operation in brief

Excess skin on the upper part of the thigh is removed with the help of a horizontal incision which of course we make sure to hide inside the inguinal fold. If the skin is loose along the horizontal axis in addition to the vertical one, a vertical incision may be required, leaving a T-shaped scar.

Incisions

As mentioned above, we make sure to hide surgical incisions in the skin fold of the groin. These may extend along their entire horizontal length on the inner surface of the thigh. If the skin is loose along the horizontal axis in addition to the vertical one, a vertical incision may be required, leaving a T-shaped scar.

Scars

The appearance of scars from thigh lifting surgery is extremely satisfactory, however, due to the location they are prone to expand over time. The color of the scars will initially be pink and after about six months it will fade to white.

Medication

In our clinic, a complete medical history is always taken before each surgery. As a precaution, over-the-counter medicines or herbal products should not be taken before and for 3 days after surgery. It is also considered necessary to avoid taking non-steroid, anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin (salospir), ibuprofen (Nurofen), diclofenac, and any other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drug.

Smoking

If you are a smoker you should try to stop smoking for at least 1 week before and 1 week after the surgery as this will dramatically reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and help achieve the best possible result.

Recovery

Duration of the procedure

Based on the type of procedure, the duration may vary from 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours and even though it is usually carried out under general anesthesia, it can also be carried out under local anesthesia and anesthetic gas.

Duration of hospitalization

The patient is usually required to stay in the hospital for one night.

Wound Care

You will wake up with steristrips on the wound (special adhesives that hold the skin in place), self-adhesive waterproof gauzes, and a special type of (cycling) corset which should remain on around the clock for the first two weeks, and then only during the day for another four weeks.

Post-op instructions

On day one you should ideally avoid any activity. You should not take care of small children or do household chores without help.

From day 2 to day 5 you can get up and move, but you may feel a slight discomfort.

From day 6 to day 14 and especially from the second week most of the swelling and bruising will subside and from then on you will start to feel much better. From the next ten days, you can start some mild exercising, such as walking, shopping, etc.

From the fourth week onwards you will be able to return to your normal everyday lives.

Postoperative follow-up

The incisions and the result will be checked and dressings will be changed on the second day after surgery and on the fifth day after surgery. However, if you need any clarification or there is something that worries you, doctors are always at your disposal. Your next appointments will be after one week and three months respectively, and during said appointments, postoperative photos will be taken. For these visits, there will of course be no extra charge for any follow-up related to your surgery.

Final outcome

Thigh lifting has immediate, visible results. However, the result is constantly improving, as the tissues soften and regain their optimal shape and form after three to six months.

Absence from work

Recovery time varies from one person to the next. In general, however, patients should be given at least two weeks to recover. Patients whose work involves a lot of movement may need more time. Most patients feel quite comfortable from the very first week having a feeling of mild discomfort rather than pain.

Refraining from exercising

Patients usually feel able to walk a distance comfortably after three days and swim gently after ten to fourteen days (if they have fully recovered). However, strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least three weeks. Sports that require physical contact should be avoided for at least six weeks.

Driving

Patients who have undergone thigh lifting should ideally avoid driving until they are completely free of any discomfort or restriction, in order to be able to make a sudden movement, such as braking, freely and without any pain. This parameter is proposed so that patients can secure coverage from their insurance company in case of an accident. Thus, it may take up to two weeks for them to fully recover. There are of course patients who feel able to drive after 4-5 days, but always at their own risk.

Possible complications of thigh lifting

Thigh lifting is a routine operation and is completely successful for the vast majority of our patients, which is a result of the large number of cases that doctors have in their belt. However, as with any surgery, it is very important to understand that there is a possibility of complications. Possible complications are listed below:

Minor asymmetry

The exact same technique is used on both thighs, however, the results may be slightly different for each thigh.

Scars

The quality of scars differs between patients (see here incisions).

Loosening of the lifting

The skin may loosen and the scar may show a slight drop during the first six months, but without altering the result of the operation.

Sensitivity of the area

It usually subsides in the first few weeks.

Bruises – Hematoma

In the majority of the cases, these are mild and are absorbed within two weeks.

If you experience any symptoms that may worry you, please do not hesitate to contact us.