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About the procedure Thighplasty

Our Philosophy on Thighplasty (Thigh Lift)

Our approach to thighplasty surgery is centred on providing tailored surgical solutions that meet each patient’s unique anatomical and functional needs. The surgeons who operate at AR Plastic Surgery have many years of experience performing this procedure and take great pride in working towards results that align with the aesthetic expectations discussed during consultations. By utilising their skill, they aim to ensure that each outcome reflects the patient’s goals and expectations.

We are committed to ensuring patients fully understand the procedure, the changes that will be made, and the realistic outcomes they can expect. Our philosophy emphasises informed consent and patient education, allowing patients to make informed decisions based on clear and accurate information.

Our patient-centred approach prioritises safety and precision in surgical techniques, with each plan meticulously designed to suit the patient’s body structure and personal goals. Patient satisfaction is a cornerstone of our practice, and we achieve this through open communication across all stages—pre-operative, operative, and post-operative—aiming to ensure every patient feels respected, supported, and informed in their care throughout their surgical journey.

Understanding Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) Surgery

Thigh lift surgery, or thighplasty, is a procedure that reshapes the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. It may be particularly suitable for patients who have undergone significant weight loss and are left with excess skin that can cause discomfort or limit physical activity. It can also be a suitable option for those experiencing diminished skin elasticity due to ageing or other factors.

The primary goal of a thighplasty is to reshape the thighs, alleviating discomfort associated with excess tissue while changing the overall contour of the legs. Candidates should understand that this surgery addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns, focusing on removing excess skin and fat that may lead to hygiene issues or physical discomfort. During consultations, surgeons provide detailed explanations of how the procedure can alter the structure of the thighs and what realistic outcomes patients can expect.

Thighplasty surgery involves customised techniques tailored to the patient’s specific needs, taking into account their skin quality, the amount of excess tissue, and their overall physical health. These assessments are critical in planning the surgery to encourage outcomes that align with the patient’s personal aesthetic and medical goals.

Suitable Candidates for Thighplasty Surgery

Thigh lift (thighplasty) surgery may be suitable for patients who have undergone significant weight loss and are left with excess skin around the thighs, which can affect mobility and cause discomfort. This excess skin can also lead to irritation or infections due to friction. Patients with poor skin elasticity, whether due to genetics or ageing, may also be suitable candidates if they experience similar discomfort or functional limitations.

During the initial consultation, surgeons carefully evaluate the patient’s concerns and overall health to determine whether thighplasty surgery is the most appropriate solution. Suitable candidates should be in good overall health, have stable weight, and hold realistic expectations about the potential outcomes. Stability in weight is essential, as significant fluctuations after surgery can impact the results.

The consultation process also includes a discussion about the patient’s lifestyle, previous surgeries, and expectations from the procedure. This thorough evaluation helps identify any potential risks and helps ensure the patient is well-prepared for the recovery process and the changes they can expect after the surgery.

Different Methods of Thighplasty Surgery

Medial Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

A medial thighplasty focuses on the inner thigh and may be suitable for patients with excess skin in this area. The incision is typically made along the groin fold, extending downward and wrapping around the back of the thigh if necessary. The exact pattern of the incision depends on the amount of skin that needs to be removed and the specific areas requiring correction.

Lateral Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

A lateral thighplasty targets the outer and front areas of the thigh. This procedure often involves more extensive tissue removal and is sometimes combined with a buttock lift for a more comprehensive lower body contouring. The incision generally runs from the groin around the hip, making this method often suitable for patients with excess skin on the thighs, hips, and buttocks.

Spiral Thigh Lift (Thighplasty)

The spiral thighplasty involves incisions around the thigh, allowing for the reshaping of the front, back, inner, and outer thigh simultaneously. This technique may be suitable for patients requiring extensive tissue removal around the entire thigh circumference, addressing excess skin in multiple areas following significant weight loss.

What to Expect During the Day of the Procedure

On the day of thighplasty surgery, patients arrive at the clinic and are guided through the final pre-operative steps. This includes a thorough review of the surgical plan and confirmation of consent. Anaesthesia is administered to minimise discomfort during the procedure, with the type of anaesthesia determined based on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s specific needs.

The surgical team carefully follows the pre-determined plan, making precise adjustments to remove excess skin and fat while reshaping the thigh area in line with the goals discussed during the consultation. The length of the procedure varies depending on the extent of the lift and the techniques used. Each step is executed with precision to ensure the structural modifications meet the patient’s aesthetic or medical goals.

After surgery, patients are monitored in the recovery area as the effects of anaesthesia wear off. The initial recovery phase focuses on managing discomfort and ensuring the patient is well-informed about immediate post-operative care. This includes guidelines for managing pain, caring for incisions, and recognising signs of potential complications. Detailed aftercare instructions are provided to help the patient transition into recovery at home.

AR PLASTIC SURGERY Meet your surgeons

Aftercare and Recovery

Recovery from thighplasty surgery requires careful management to promote proper healing and prevent complications. Patients are given detailed post-operative instructions, which include activity restrictions, wound care guidelines, and strategies for managing pain. Compression garments are often recommended to reduce swelling and support the newly contoured shape of the thighs.

Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and direct pressure on the treated areas for several weeks. Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring the healing process and making any necessary adjustments to the recovery plan. These visits allow the surgeon to assess progress and ensure the patient is healing as expected.

Strict adherence to aftercare instructions is crucial for reducing the risk of complications and ensuring proper healing. Patients are advised to follow all guidelines closely, which include keeping the surgical area clean and dry, monitoring for any signs of infection, and avoiding unnecessary strain on the thighs. Proper wound care is essential to prevent infections or delayed healing, and patients should avoid soaking the incision sites in water until fully healed.

Procedure gallery View our patient results

Abdominoplasty Results

Breast Reduction Results

Breast Lift Results

Breast augmentation Results

Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors, including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise. Some images may have the patient’s tattoos, jewellery or other identifiable items blurred to protect patient identities.

Potential Risks

Thigh lift (thighplasty) surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks that must be discussed thoroughly with patients during the pre-operative consultations. These risks include:

  • Infection at the surgical site
  • Bleeding or haematoma formation
  • Seroma (fluid accumulation)
  • Changes in skin sensation
  • Scarring, which may be extensive depending on the procedure
  • Complications related to anaesthesia

Risk management is a key part of the thighplasty process and involves meticulous surgical techniques, comprehensive pre-operative assessments, and rigorous post-operative care. To minimise risks, patients are thoroughly educated on how to recognise early signs of complications and the importance of following post-operative care instructions closely. Our proactive approach emphasises education, transparency, and continuous support, ensuring both patient safety and satisfaction with the outcomes of their thighplasty surgery.

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