Thigh lift

Thigh LiftA thigh lift or thighplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the thighs by removing excess skin, and in some cases fat. The results are thighs that are better-proportioned and have smoother skin.

After losing significant weight some individuals have great difficulty with the excess, loose skin that can gather on the inner and outer thighs. For other individuals age and genetic factors can contribute to premature ageing of the thighs and negatively impact on self-confidence.

The ideal patient for a thigh lift is one who has loose skin in the upper inner thighs, has a stable weight, who is in good health and has realistic goals and expectations.

Thigh lift surgery depends on the area that requires correction. For medial thigh skin laxity an incision is made at the junction between the inner thigh and pubic region and a pre-determined amount of excess skin and underlying fat is removed. For lateral thigh skin laxity an incision is made at the lateral aspect of the thigh and a pre-determined amount of excess skin and underlying fat is removed. Thigh lift surgery is performed under general anaesthetic.

After surgery, dressings are applied as well as a compression garment to be worn during recovery. Some swelling, bruising and discomfort is normal and to be expected, and settles over several weeks. The swelling is usually gone by 6-12 weeks.

During your consultation with Mr Karri, he will advise you on what type of thigh lift would be best for you. If required, thigh lift can be combined with liposuction, tummy tuck or breast lift, depending on your individual goals.

Prior to your surgery, Mr Karri and his team will give you detailed aftercare instructions. This will include how to care for the surgical site and incisions, pain relief that may be used to handle discomfort and when you may resume normal activity.

Risks of thigh lift

Complications following thigh lift depend on numerous factors such as general health, smoking history and medications. Mr Karri will explain how risks apply to you and will send you detailed pre-operative instructions to minimise these risks.

Scar / poor scarring – in some patients the scar may remain red and raised for a number of weeks
Scar dropping – the scar can move down or pull on the genital area
Over-correction / under-correction
Asymmetry
Bruising and swelling
Bleeding and haematoma formation
Collection of fluid (seroma) – can collect under the skin and will resolve over a few weeks
Infection – antibiotics will be given at the time of surgery to reduce the risk of infection
Delayed wound healing - higher risk in smokers
Wound breakdown – the wound in the groin can open up and take longer to heal
Lymph leakage and leg swelling
Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
Risks of general anaesthesia

Medically reviewed by

Mr Vasu Karri

BSc(Hons), MBBS, MRCS, MSc, FRCS(Plast)
Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Last updated 30th September 2026