The thigh lift procedure, often referred to as thighplasty, tightens sagging skin to create firmer, more proportionate thighs. At The Harley Clinic, our expert surgeons deliver thigh lifts tailored to each individual patient, enhancing their body contours and improving their confidence.
What is a Thigh Lift Procedure?
The thigh lift procedure reshapes the thighs by removing excess skin and fat, addressing sagging caused by significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing. It’s ideal for patients, including post-bariatric surgery individuals, who experience loose thigh skin that won’t respond to diet or exercise.
Unlike liposuction, which targets only fat, thighplasty focuses on skin excision and contouring, often combined with VASER liposuction at The Harley Clinic for enhanced results. Candidates will be healthy non-smokers who have maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months, with realistic expectations for firmer, more proportionate thighs. Those who find they have poor skin elasticity as a result of ageing or weight fluctuations stand to benefit significantly.
The thigh lift procedure reduces stretch marks, enhances muscle definition, and improves comfort during activities like walking or running by minimising chafing. Patients frequently report increased confidence in clothing like shorts, skirts, and swimwear. It can be part of a mummy makeover for holistic rejuvenation, complementing procedures like tummy tucks.
Book a consultation to see how a thigh lift procedure can transform your thighs and confidence.
Thigh Lift Procedure: Quick Overview
- Surgery Time: 2 hours
- Anaesthetic: General
- Hospital Stay: Day
- Dressing and Garments: Dressings for 2 weeks, garments for 6 weeks
- Time Off Work: 1-2 weeks
- Exercise: 6-8 Weeks
- Mobile: 1 day
- Washing: Shower after 1 week
- Sleeping Position: On your back for up to 2 weeks
- Full Recovery: 6-8 weeks
Why Choose Harley Clinic for a Thigh Lift Procedure?
The Harley Clinic on Harley Street, London, is a premier destination for the thigh lift procedure, offering discreet, patient-centred care with exceptional results. Our surgeons are board-certified and extensively trained in thighplasty and body contouring, using advanced techniques to minimise scarring and ensure natural, proportionate outcomes.
We provide comprehensive support, from detailed consultations to a dedicated aftercare team that guides you through recovery. Our state-of-the-art facilities adhere to stringent safety protocols, ensuring your comfort and confidence. The Harley Clinic’s strong reputation attracts patients seeking an array of transformative procedures, including abdominal etching, arm lift, and umbilicoplasty.
Learn more about our clinic and why people trust us for thigh lift procedures that improve both the appearance of the thighs and the quality of our patients’ lives.
What Happens During Thigh Lift Surgery?
Patients can expect the thigh lift procedure to last between 2 and 3 hours, with the final results customised to your needs and ideals. Here’s how the procedure works:
- During a thorough consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your thigh concerns, medical history, and suitability for the procedure, setting clear expectations.
- Pre-operative steps include marking incision sites and discussing anaesthesia options. General anaesthesia is typically used for maximum comfort.
- Incisions are made in the groin crease for an inner thigh lift or around the hip for an outer thigh lift, depending on the extent of correction required.
- Excess skin and fat are removed, often with liposuction to enhance contouring, followed by suturing with dissolvable stitches.
After the operation, patients will receive a compression garment, dressings, and detailed recovery instructions. Patients typically return home on the same day.
Inner Thigh Lift (Medial)
With an inner thigh lift, your surgeon will make an incision in the groin area and remove excess skin and fat. The region from your knee to the groin is contoured, and the procedure is replicated on both thighs.
Outer Thigh Lift (Lateral)
This procedure is slightly different to the inner thigh lift and more complex. It usually involves recontouring the buttocks as well as the outer thighs. Scarring is more extensive with an outer thigh lift, and your skin will be less elastic. That means you need to maintain your weight after surgery to prolong your results.
Thigh Lift Procedure Recovery Results & Aftercare
Recovery from a thigh lift procedure involves bruising and swelling for the first few days. To manage this effectively, rest as much as possible, take pain relief medication, and apply a compression garment for 6 weeks to support healing. Sleep on your back for 2 weeks, refrain from showering for 1 week, and take 1-2 weeks off work. Certain prolonged sitting or postures can strain incisions, so avoid these if they start feeling uncomfortable. Heavy exercise and lifting should be avoided for 6-8 weeks, while driving can be resumed after 2-3 weeks, but only if pain-free. To prepare for the surgery:
- Stop smoking 6 weeks prior
- Maintain a stable weight
- Arrange essentials in your home for easy access post-surgery
Scar management includes silicone gels or sheets to minimise visibility, applied after the sutures dissolve. Initial results appear within 3-5 weeks, with final results by 6-8 weeks as swelling subsides. In the long term, try to maintain a healthy lifestyle with skincare and weight stability, as this will maintain the results of the procedure. Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare tips and reassuring follow-ups.
What Results Can I Expect from a Thigh Lift?
If you have gone through pretty big body transformations, you may find that your skin doesn’t quite bounce back the way it used to. It’s normal for skin to lose its suppleness and elasticity as you get older.
A thigh lift can leave you with firmer, smoother, and younger-looking skin in the thigh area. By tightening loose skin and creating a more shapely body that’s in proportion, it can enhance the contours of your thighs. All this offers the following benefits:
- Boost your confidence
- Reduce the appearance of stretch marks
- Increase the look of muscle definition
Potential Thigh Lift Procedure Risks and Complications
The thigh lift procedure is safe when performed by experienced surgeons, but potential risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Seroma or fluid accumulation
- Scarring
- Asymmetry
At the Harley Clinic, our precise surgical techniques, sterile environment, and comprehensive post-operative monitoring significantly reduce these risks, ensuring a safe and smooth recovery.
Thigh Lift Procedure FAQs
How long do the results of a thigh lift last?
The results of a thigh lift can be very long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While natural ageing may affect skin elasticity over time, most patients enjoy smoother, firmer thighs for years or decades after surgery. With regular exercise and a balanced diet, you can help preserve results.
How long does it take to recover from thighplasty?
Most patients return to light activities within 2 weeks, but full recovery may take up to 2 months. Swelling and bruising are common in the first few days. Wear your compression garment and follow post-operative care instructions to speed up the healing process.
What are the risks or downsides of a thigh lift?
As with any surgery, thighplasty carries some risks, including scarring, infection, asymmetry, and seroma. Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon greatly reduces these risks. Book your consultation today at The Harley Clinic, and we’ll reassure you about potential complications and how we mitigate them.
Before and After Thigh Lift Surgery
Thigh Lift Patient Reviews at The Harley Clinic
Further Reading:
- 7 Aftercare Tips for Thigh Lift Surgery
- Thigh Lift: Procedure and Results
- 4 Foods for a Healthy Recovery After Plastic Surgery
- How to Prepare For Your Cosmetic Treatment
- Why Do You Need to Wear Compression Garments After Plastic Surgery?
- 4 Foods for a Healthy Recovery After Plastic Surgery
- How to Sleep After Thigh Lift