Thigh lift
Table of contents:
What is a thigh lift?
Ageing, significant weight loss or pregnancy can cause thighs to sag. Especially the inside of the thighs can start drooping. Firming creams and intensive sports sessions usually do not offer sufficient results.
A thigh lift can be a solution, however. In this procedure, the excess skin and subcutaneous tissue of the thighs is removed, usually on the inside and the front. The skin is then tightened so that the upper legs look smoother, tighter and more attractive again. The skin structure, cellulite and the appearance of stretch marks will not change, but cellulite and stretch marks may be less noticeable. The thigh lift is often combined with liposculpture.
Procedure - How does a thigh lift work?
You will be expected at the o2 clinic half an hour before your treatment. He will then draw your legs in accordance with the operation plan. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia.
There are two techniques. In the case of moderate crease formation in the thighs, it is sufficient to remove the skin below the groin crease. The scar is located under the bikini line.
In the case of larger deviations, it is necessary to remove skin and fatty tissue along the entire length of the thigh, up to about a hand's width above the knee. The scar runs vertically at the inner back of the thigh (like the line of a trouser seam). This is called the extended thigh lift. This technique is often necessary when significant weight loss has taken place. If necessary, the plastic surgeon will also combine both surgeries with liposuction or liposculpture. This means that excess fat is sucked away.
The surgery takes about 2 to 3 hours. An extensive thigh lift or a combined procedure takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.
Advantages
- After this procedure, the thighs look tighter, lifted and smoother.
- Abrasion of the skin and associated irritation is reduced or avoided.
- Any unevenness in the skin is reduced or disappears.
Disadvantages
Fortunately, the risk of complications is rare. You can help reduce some risks by carefully following the instructions you were given prior to your thigh lift.
Some possible complications may include:
- Haematoma (a build-up of blood under the skin that may require removal)
- Negative reaction to anaesthetics
- Subsequent bleeding
- Infection
- Change of sensation
- Lasting scars
- Damage to underlying structures
- Unsatisfactory aesthetic result
- Free large scars
- Asymmetry of the thighs
Recovery - What can you expect after a thigh lift?
After a thigh lift you will in most cases stay overnight in the clinic. If the plastic surgeon deems it sensible you will be able to go home the next day.
After-pain
The first few days after the thigh lift you will feel a pulling pain in the skin and muscles around the treated area. The operated area is sensitive, bruised and feels tight. In the first week after the thigh lift you will not be able to do much as considerable muscle pain will interfere with your daily routine.
Recovery
As after any surgical procedure, the body needs time to recover. The treated area will initially be blue, painful and swollen. The scars may also be red and swollen immediately after the thigh lift. This is a natural reaction of the body. Logically, recovery will be longer if the thigh lift is extensive.
The skin will feel hard for a few weeks because of the scarring. Sometimes the skin will be more or less sensitive, this is a normal reaction to the operation and will gradually disappear. Any swelling or bruising will go away slowly. For the first six weeks you will wear supportive pressure trousers day and night.
Scar cream
During your first check-up, you will be given a scar cream to take home with you. As soon as the wound has closed and the scabs have disappeared, you can start applying the scar cream. Applying it twice a day to the closed wound increases the chance of a beautiful healing process.
The result
The result of a thigh lift is often satisfactory if the patient has reasonable expectations. A thigh lift will never result in completely straight legs. However, there will always be a significant reduction in skin and a clearer leg contour.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of body surgery?
You can find estimated prices here, after your consultation you will be informed of the exact prices of your operation. Prices are average and may vary depending on: the exact treatment or surgery needed; the exact area you want to have treated; your body type; your expectations and wishes...
We have a specific procedure to get a quote from the doctor. To receive a personalized quote, please visit the following link to see your different options.
Is there a payment plan or financing option for a surgery?
No, payments have to be made following our payment policy. It is not possible to pay for a surgery via monthly/... payments.
What is the cost of a breast lift?
You will find all the prices of our treatments and operations here.
How long does the result of a breast lift last?
It may take several weeks or even months before you see the final result of your breast uplift. The final result will of course last for several years. If protheses have been used, keep in mind that they have an expiration date.
What are the risks of a breast lift?
Any disadvantages or possible complications can be found here.
Who is a suitable candidate for a breast lift?
A breast uplift can help if you suffer from drooping or sagging breasts after pregnancy, breast feeding, weight gain or loss, ageing etc.
What is the cost of a breast reduction?
You will find all the prices of our treatments and operations here.
How long does the result of a breast reduction last?
It can take several weeks or even months before you see the final result of your breast reduction. The final result naturally remains for several years.
What are the risks of breast reduction?
All disadvantages or possible complications can be found here.
Who is a suitable candidate for a breast reduction?
A breast reduction can help if you suffer from heavy, drooping breasts after pregnancy, breast feeding, weight gain, becoming older, etc. Especially if you suffer from neck, shoulder and back pains, this procedure can bring relief.
What is the difference between a nipple correction and a nipple-areola correction?
With a nipple correction, mainly the shape of the nipple is adjusted. The areola correction involves reducing the size of the areola.
What is the cost of a nipple correction?
You will find all the prices of our treatments and operations here.
How long does the result of a nipple correction last?
Normally the result is permanent, although scars may remain slightly visible.
What are the risks of a nipple correction?
Any disadvantages or possible complications can be found here.
Who is a suitable candidate for a nipple correction?
A nipple correction aims to restore the proportions between the breast, the nipple and the areola. When a nipple has a deviant shape and is, for example, (too) large or retracted, a nipple correction may be necessary or desirable. Also when the areola (the dark area around the nipple) is too large in proportion, this can be surgically corrected.
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