Thighplasty (Thigh Lift)

what is a thigh lift ...

A Thigh Lift, also known as thighplasty or thigh lipectomy, is a surgical procedure that addresses excess skin and, in some cases, localised fat deposits in the thigh area. It is often considered by individuals experiencing skin laxity or redundant tissue along the inner or outer thighs, which may develop following significant weight loss, ageing, or changes in skin elasticity.

The procedure typically involves incisions placed along the groin and/or inner thigh, allowing excess skin and tissue to be removed and the remaining tissue to be reshaped. The surgical approach can be tailored to the individual and may vary depending on the extent of skin laxity and the areas being treated, such as the inner (medial) thigh, outer (lateral) thigh, or a more comprehensive circumferential approach.

concerns a thigh lift may address ...

A Thigh Lift may be considered to address a range of concerns related to excess skin and tissue in the thigh area. While outcomes vary between individuals, the procedure may assist with:

  • Skin irritation or discomfort: Excess skin can lead to friction, chafing, or hygiene concerns that may affect day-to-day comfort
  • Changes following significant weight loss: Skin that has stretched may not fully retract, resulting in ongoing laxity in the upper thighs
  • Post-pregnancy changes: Alterations in skin tone and volume may contribute to concerns about the appearance of the thighs
  • Age-related skin laxity: Reduced skin elasticity over time can lead to looseness in the inner or outer thighs
  • Skin folds affecting movement or hygiene: Excess tissue may impact physical activity or skin care in the area
  • Asymmetry: Variations in skin or fat distribution may result in uneven contours

am I a suitable candidate ...

A Thigh Lift is typically considered by individuals experiencing persistent skin laxity that has not improved with lifestyle measures. Suitability is determined through consultation with a qualified surgeon, taking into account your health, anatomy, and treatment goals.

You may be considered a suitable candidate if you:

  • Have maintained a stable body weight for a period of time
  • Are in good general health and able to undergo surgery and anaesthesia
  • Do not smoke, or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery as advised
  • Have excess skin or redundant tissue in the thigh area following weight loss, ageing, or other changes
  • Understand that the procedure is not intended for weight loss
  • Have clear goals and realistic expectations about potential outcomes

Each Thighplasty procedure is tailored to the individual’s anatomy and surgical goals. Our surgeons offer several techniques, selected based on the specific presentation of skin laxity, fat distribution, and overall thigh appearance.

  • Transverse (Groin) Inner Thighplasty: This technique involves an incision in the groin area and may be considered for addressing skin redundancy in the upper inner thigh region.
  • Vertical Inner Thighplasty: In cases of more extensive skin laxity, such as following significant weight loss, a vertical incision along the inner thigh may be used to facilitate skin removal and reshaping.
  • Thighplasty with Liposuction: Where appropriate, liposuction may be performed in conjunction with skin excision to assist in addressing localised fat deposits and providing a more comprehensive result.

Yes, you will require a GP referral. As of 1 July 2023, AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) requires all patients to obtain a referral from a GP (General Practitioner).

Recovery is an essential phase of your surgical journey and plays a critical role in the overall outcome. Recovery generally includes:

  • Hospital Stay: Most patients stay overnight for monitoring during the early recovery period. This allows healthcare staff to assist with pain and drainage management if required.
  • Support Garments: Compression garments are typically worn continuously for the first four weeks to help manage swelling and provide support to the surgical area. After this period, patients may be advised to continue wearing the garments during the day for an additional few weeks.
  • Activity Modifications: Light walking is generally recommended soon after surgery to support circulation and reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots. More strenuous activities, including running, heavy lifting, or gym-based exercise, are typically restricted for at least six weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
  • Wound Care: Patients receive detailed instructions for dressing care, hygiene, and early scar management. It is important to monitor for any signs of infection, delayed healing, or other post-operative concerns and to report these promptly.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: Ongoing reviews are scheduled to assess the healing process and provide ongoing care. Your surgeon will monitor progress and discuss any required adjustments to aftercare at these visits.

As with any surgical procedure, a Thighplasty involves potential risks. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks and complications during your consultation as part of the informed consent process. Visit our Risks and Complications page for more information. Risks and complications can include, but are not limited to:

General surgical risks

  • Bleeding or haematoma
  • Infection
  • Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Scarring (including keloid or hypertrophic scars)
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma)
  • Numbness or changes in skin sensation
  • Asymmetry or irregularities
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary complications (rare)

Additional considerations specific to thighplasty

  • Incisions are typically placed along the groin crease or inner thigh, and resulting scars will be visible to varying degrees depending on healing and skin type.
  • The amount of skin elasticity and fat distribution can influence the outcome and may limit the degree of reshaping possible.
  • Some individuals may require revision procedures if complications arise or if further adjustments are desired.
  • Compression garments and activity modifications are usually necessary during recovery and may affect day-to-day comfort.
  • Smoking, certain medications, and pre-existing health conditions can increase surgical risk and may impact healing.

Surgical fees can vary between patients depending on the surgical plan and associated hospital and anaesthetic costs. A personalised quote is provided after consultation.

As a general guide, starting surgical fees are from $15,000 (excluding hospital and anaesthetist fees, where applicable).

Costs can vary depending on factors such as:

  • How much excess skin needs to be removed (mild laxity vs significant post-weight loss redundancy)
  • The type of thigh lift required (for example, a groin-crease approach vs a longer inner-thigh incision for more extensive laxity)
  • Whether liposuction is included as part of the plan
  • Whether one thigh or both thighs are treated
  • Hospital or facility fees (and the hospital selected)
  • Anaesthetic requirements and who administers it
  • Whether garments, dressings, drains, pathology, and follow-up appointments are included
  • Whether a thigh lift is combined with other procedures (this can change theatre time, anaesthetic needs, and overall costs)

In many cases, thigh lift surgery is considered cosmetic and is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance.

In some cases, Medicare eligibility may be possible when surgery is performed to remove significant excess skin after major weight loss, and there is a functional medical issue (not purely cosmetic). If you’d like help understanding whether Medicare may apply in your situation, please get in touch with Me Clinic, and our team can guide you through the usual steps.

FAQs ...

Most patients can expect an initial recovery period of about two to three weeks, with a gradual return to light activities. Full recovery, including resumption of more vigorous activities, usually occurs after six to eight weeks.

Yes, a Thighplasty will result in scars. Our surgeons position incisions to be as discreet as possible and provide advice on scar care to support optimal healing over time.

While changes are visible within a few weeks, final results typically become more apparent after several months, once swelling subsides fully and tissues settle.

Maintaining a stable weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is key to long-lasting results.

While women tend to seek Thighplasty following weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing, men also seek Thighplasty surgery, especially after significant weight loss that leads to excess or redundant skin in the thigh area. The procedure is tailored to each individual’s anatomy, goals, and skin quality, regardless of gender.

why choose me clinic ...

With over 35 years of experience in plastic surgery, aesthetic cosmetic medicine, and skin rejuvenation, Me Clinic is built around a simple priority: patient-first care.

We take time to understand you as an individual and curate an approach that feels meaningful and appropriate for your needs. We listen, we care, and we support you through your journey — from consultation through to aftercare.

Our team of Specialist Plastic Surgeons can advise on suitable options to address your concerns. In an ever-evolving field, we focus on evidence-informed care and contemporary treatment options, with suitability always assessed on an individual basis.

Surgeons who perform Thighplasty procedures at Me Clinic …

Book your thigh lift consultation ...

If you are considering Thighplasty, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is your opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn about suitable options, and understand what your personalised plan may involve.

For all surgical procedures, you will need a valid GP Medical Referral to have a medical or cosmetic consultation with Me Clinic’s Specialist Plastic Surgeons. To begin your journey, call 1300 852 050 or enquire via our contact form.

We look forward to hearing from you soon and answering any further questions you may have.

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