Types of Thigh Lift Surgery

Thigh Lift Surgery in Istanbul with Dr. Ahmet Kaplan: Your Journey to Firmer, Sculpted Legs

Hello Dear Readers,

I’m Dr. Ahmet Kaplan, a Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon based here in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey. In my practice, I have the privilege of meeting patients from all walks of life, listening to their dreams and expectations about how they envision themselves. Sometimes these dreams are about addressing a specific area of concern they see in the mirror, sometimes they’re about finally making a change they’ve long postponed, and sometimes they are about completing a significant personal achievement, such as the incredible transformation that follows substantial weight loss.

Today, I want to talk to you about a topic that is particularly relevant for many who feel self-conscious about sagging or loose skin on their legs, who find it difficult to wear certain clothes, or who simply desire a more aesthetic and toned appearance for their lower body: Thigh Lift Surgery, medically known as Thigh Reduction or Thighplasty.

This operation does more than just create a physical change; it significantly enhances my patients’ quality of life, offering them the chance to feel truly comfortable and confident in their skin again. Let’s delve into this topic in detail, in a warm and approachable manner, while still providing you with all the technical information you need to understand the process.

Our Legs: An Important Part of Aesthetic Harmony

When we think about body aesthetics, the face, chest, or abdomen might come to mind first. However, our legs are an integral part of our body contour and overall appearance, especially during warmer months or when wearing more revealing clothing. Firm, well-shaped, and proportionate legs are key to a more youthful, dynamic, and fit look.

So, why do our legs sometimes lose their former firmness over time or after certain significant life events? There are a few primary reasons for this:

1. Massive Weight Loss: Perhaps the most common cause of thigh sagging. When a large amount of weight is lost rapidly, the fat tissue stored beneath the skin diminishes quickly. However, the skin cannot always adapt to this rapid change at the same pace and loses its elasticity, resulting in sagging. This is particularly noticeable on the inner and outer thighs. When you’ve taken such a significant and positive step in your life by losing weight, you shouldn’t let the excess skin detract from your incredible achievement and motivation.
2. The Aging Process: Over time, our skin’s production of collagen and elastin decreases. These proteins are responsible for the skin’s firmness and elasticity. As we age, and with the effect of gravity, the skin loosens and sagging occurs. The legs are certainly affected by this process.
3. Genetic Factors: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to having skin that is less elastic or tends to loosen more easily. If there is a family history of similar tendencies, sagging in the legs might appear earlier or be more pronounced.
4. Sun Damage and Smoking: Excessive sun exposure and smoking are environmental factors that accelerate the loss of skin elasticity. These can contribute to sagging skin throughout the body, including the legs.
5. Pregnancy: Weight gained during pregnancy and hormonal changes can also lead to laxity in the legs, especially the inner thighs.

For individuals experiencing sagging, laxity, or disproportion in their legs due to one or more of these factors, thigh lift surgery performed by an experienced surgeon like myself here in Istanbul offers an effective solution.

What Exactly is Thigh Lift Surgery?

Thigh lift surgery (Thigh Reduction) is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess and sagging skin and fat tissue from the inner, outer, front, or back aspects of the thighs, followed by tightening the remaining tissue. The primary goal of this surgery is to give the legs a smoother, firmer, and aesthetically more pleasing contour. Frequently, if needed, stubborn fat deposits in these areas can also be removed simultaneously using liposuction to achieve better overall shaping.

This surgery can often be performed as a standalone procedure, or it can be combined with other body contouring operations such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), arm lift (brachioplasty), or breast surgery. It is a very common component of the “post-bariatric surgery” process for patients who have undergone massive weight loss.

Types of Thigh Lift Surgery: Tailored Solutions for You

Every individual’s anatomy, skin quality, and degree of sagging are unique. Therefore, thigh lift surgery is not limited to a single technique. Different surgical approaches are available depending on the specific area and extent of the sagging. At my clinic in Istanbul, after a thorough consultation and examination with you, we determine the most suitable technique to address your specific needs. Here are the principal types of thigh lift surgery:

A. Medial Thigh Lift (Inner Thigh Lift)

This is the most commonly performed technique among thigh lift procedures. As the name suggests, it focuses on correcting sagging and laxity on the inner aspect of the thighs. The inner thighs are one of the areas where sagging is most pronounced, particularly after weight loss or due to aging. Sagging in this area not only creates an aesthetic concern but can also lead to chafing, irritation, redness, and even fungal infections due to the thighs rubbing against each other while walking. A medial thigh lift helps to resolve these functional problems as well.

• Who is it Suitable For? Ideal for individuals with significant sagging on the inner thigh, who experience difficulty walking or skin problems because of this sagging.
• Surgical Technique and Scar: The primary aim of a medial thigh lift is to tighten this area by removing excess skin and fat if necessary. The incision pattern varies depending on the degree and extent of the sagging:
  • Limited Medial Thigh Lift (Mini Thigh Lift): If the sagging is minimal and primarily located near the groin area, the incision is made only along the crease of the groin, carefully hidden within the bikini or underwear line. This is a shorter incision and provides a more limited tightening effect. The recovery period is typically shorter.
  • Standard Medial Thigh Lift: If the sagging extends from the groin area down towards the inner knee, the incision in the groin alone may not be sufficient. In this case, in addition to the horizontal incision along the groin crease, a vertical incision down the inner aspect of the thigh, from the groin towards the knee, may be necessary. This results in an “L” or “T” shaped scar. A vertical scar is often unavoidable when a significant amount of skin needs to be removed, and this technique provides the most effective tightening. Although the scar may be prominent initially, it fades over time and is often hidden when standing or sitting with the legs together.
• Advantages: Eliminates bothersome sagging and chafing on the inner thigh, resulting in firmer, more youthful-looking legs, and helps clothing fit better.
• Disadvantages: Depending on the degree of sagging, a vertical scar may remain. The patient’s acceptance of this scar is an important consideration for expectations.

B. Lateral Thigh Lift (Outer Thigh Lift)

A lateral thigh lift is performed to correct sagging on the outer aspects of the thighs, extending towards the hip and buttock areas. Sagging in this region is typically seen after massive weight loss or due to aging, often accompanied by drooping of the buttocks. A lateral thigh lift helps to lift and reshape not only the thighs but also the sides of the buttocks.

• Who is it Suitable For? Suitable for individuals with significant sagging and laxity on the outer thighs and hip area, particularly those also experiencing some buttock drooping.
• Surgical Technique and Scar: In a lateral thigh lift, the incision is generally made along the waistline or bikini line. This incision can extend from the side of the hip and may be connected to an abdominoplasty incision, or it can remain primarily on the side. The scar is longer than that of an inner thigh lift but can also be easily concealed by clothing. Through this incision, excess skin is removed, and the underlying tissues are tightened. This surgery is frequently performed in conjunction with abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and buttock lift procedures and may be part of a more extensive body contouring operation called a “Circumferential Body Lift” or “Belt Lipectomy.”
• Advantages: Improves the hip-thigh transition, tightens the outer hip and thigh area, enhances the body silhouette, and helps clothing fit better around the hips and thighs. It also provides a subtle lifting effect to the side of the buttocks.
• Disadvantages: The scar is longer and is located along the waist/bikini line.

C. Anterior Thigh Lift (Front Thigh Lift)

This technique is less common but may be necessary, particularly in patients with noticeable sagging on the front of the thighs, especially just above the knee. This condition can sometimes be addressed in conjunction with an inner thigh lift or knee aesthetics.

• Who is it Suitable For? Suitable for individuals with significant excess skin and sagging on the front of the thighs, above the knee, often seen in older individuals or those with severely reduced skin elasticity.
• Surgical Technique and Scar: The incision may extend from the groin crease downwards onto the front of the thigh, or it may be a horizontal incision just above the kneecap. The incision plan varies depending on the extent of the sagging and can often be combined with inner or outer thigh lift incisions.
• Advantages: Reduces laxity on the front of the thighs, resulting in a smoother and firmer appearance.
• Disadvantages: The scar may be more difficult to hide with clothing compared to inner or outer thigh scars.

D. Minimal (Partial) Thigh Lift

This is a more limited procedure applied for mild degrees of sagging or small areas of laxity. It is often preferred for minor sagging on the upper inner thigh near the groin.

• Who is it Suitable For? Individuals with minimal sagging in their legs, only slight laxity in a specific area (usually the upper inner thigh), and who desire a shorter recovery time.
• Surgical Technique and Scar: The incision is a short one made only along the groin crease. Less tissue is removed, and the surgery duration is shorter.
• Advantages: Less noticeable scar, shorter surgery and recovery time, lower risk.
• Disadvantages: Only effective for mild sagging; not sufficient to correct significant laxity.

E. Combined Thigh Lift and Comprehensive Body Contouring

As I mentioned earlier, thigh lift surgery is often performed in combination with other body contouring procedures. Particularly in patients after massive weight loss, operations such as abdominoplasty, arm lift (brachioplasty), breast lift/augmentation or reduction, back lift, and buttock lift can be combined with a thigh lift in the same session or separate stages. This approach is called “Circumferential Body Contouring” or “Body Lift” and aims to improve the overall body contour in a comprehensive manner. The decision on which combination is suitable for you is made after a detailed evaluation, considering your general health, recovery capacity, and the safety of the surgical duration.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Thigh Lift Surgery?

Thigh lift surgery, when performed with proper patient selection by an experienced surgeon like myself here in Istanbul, can yield very satisfying results. However, this surgery is not suitable for everyone. Here are some important criteria that indicate you might be an ideal candidate for thigh lift surgery:

1. Skin Sagging After Significant Weight Loss: Individuals who have lost a substantial amount of weight and have maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months to 1 year are the most common candidates. Removing the excess and sagging skin that results from weight loss is the primary goal of the surgery. Maintaining a stable weight is crucial for the longevity and success of the surgical results. Continuing to gain or lose significant weight can cause the skin in the operated area to stretch or sag again, compromising the outcome.
2. Good General Health: As with any surgical procedure, thigh lift surgery carries some medical risks. Patients with chronic conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure) must have these conditions well-controlled. There should be no contraindications to receiving anesthesia.
3. Being Close to Your Ideal Weight: The surgery is not a weight-loss method; it is a body contouring procedure. Candidates for surgery are expected to be close to their ideal weight or at least have completed a significant weight loss journey. Being significantly overweight before surgery can both reduce the effectiveness of the procedure and increase the risk of complications.
4. Not Smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant factors that negatively impact wound healing. To ensure proper healing of incision lines and reduce the risk of complications after thigh lift surgery, it is essential to stop smoking completely at least several weeks before the surgery and absolutely refrain from smoking throughout the post-operative recovery period.
5. Having Realistic Expectations: Thigh lift surgery will result in tighter and more shaped legs, but it is not a guarantee of perfection. Scars will be present, and the appearance of these scars varies from person to person. It is crucial for candidates to be prepared to accept these scars and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. You should openly discuss all your expectations and concerns during the consultation process.
6. Being Able to Commit to the Recovery Process: Thigh lift surgery requires a specific recovery period. During this time, strict adherence to the surgeon’s instructions (wearing compression garments, activity restrictions, wound care, etc.) is of paramount importance. Candidates who can dedicate time to this process and demonstrate the necessary commitment achieve better results.
7. Being Psychologically Prepared: Aesthetic surgeries are not only physical but also psychological journeys. Individuals who have decided to undergo the surgery out of their own desire, who yearn for this change for themselves, and who are well-informed about the process are more likely to navigate the post-operative period smoothly and be satisfied with the results.

If you meet most of these criteria and genuinely wish to get rid of sagging on your legs, thigh lift surgery performed in Istanbul, Turkey by an experienced plastic surgeon could be a suitable option for you.

The Surgical Journey: A Step-by-Step Process

Once you decide to proceed with thigh lift surgery, the entire process is carefully planned and progresses in stages. Here are the steps you can expect when having your surgery with me in Istanbul:

1. Initial Consultation and Examination:

Everything begins with a detailed consultation here at my clinic in Istanbul. During this initial meeting:

• We will discuss the areas of your legs that bother you, your expectations, and the look you envision after surgery.
• I will gather information about your medical history, previous surgeries, current medications, allergies, and overall health status. Your weight loss history, in particular, will be thoroughly evaluated.
• I will assess the structure of your legs, the elasticity of your skin, and the degree and extent of the sagging.
• Based on this assessment, I will determine the most suitable thigh lift technique for you (medial, lateral, combined, etc.). I will provide detailed information about the incision sites and potential scars.
• I will openly discuss the potential risks and complications of the surgery with you.
• I will explain the post-operative recovery process, expected results, and things you need to be mindful of.
• I will patiently answer all your questions.

This consultation is vital for both you to gain a clear understanding of the surgery and for me to create the most accurate and personalized plan for you, right here in Istanbul.

2. Pre-Operative Preparations:

After deciding on the surgery and setting the date, you will need to make some preparations to ensure your safety and the success of the operation. These preparations are crucial, especially for patients traveling to Istanbul for their surgery:

• Medical Evaluation: Necessary blood tests and other examinations (ECG, chest X-ray, etc.) will be requested to confirm your general health status. If necessary, opinions from relevant specialists (e.g., internal medicine, cardiology) will be obtained.
• Medications: Inform me about any medications you are currently taking. Blood-thinning medications (aspirin, warfarin, etc.), certain vitamins, and herbal supplements must be discontinued a specific period before surgery.
• Smoking and Alcohol: It is extremely important to completely stop smoking at least 2-4 weeks before the surgery. Alcohol consumption should also be limited before the operation.
• Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in light exercise before surgery prepares your body and contributes positively to the recovery process. Avoid extreme diets.
• Preparation for Surgery Day: On the day of your surgery, wear comfortable clothing, do not wear makeup or nail polish, and remove any jewelry. Stop eating and drinking from the time specified by your doctor on the evening before and morning of the surgery.

3. Surgery Day:

On the scheduled day, you will arrive at the hospital in Istanbul where your surgery will be performed. After the admission procedures, you will be settled in your room, and final preparations will be made. I, Dr. Ahmet Kaplan, will see you one last time before the surgery to mark the incision lines and answer any final questions you may have. The anesthesiologist will also meet with you to discuss the type of anesthesia. Thigh lift surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the surgery can range from 2 to 4 hours or longer, depending on the technique used and whether other procedures are combined.

During the surgery, excess skin and fat tissue are removed through the predetermined incisions, the remaining tissues are tightened, and the incisions are closed with aesthetic sutures. Drains, which are thin tubes, may be placed in the surgical area to prevent the accumulation of blood or fluid. At the end of the surgery, a special compression garment is applied to help reduce swelling and support the tissues.

4. Post-Operative Recovery Process:

The first few days after surgery are the most critical period of the recovery process. What to expect during this time and how to manage it:

• Immediately After: You will be kept under observation in the recovery room for the first few hours after surgery. Necessary pain medication will be administered. Feeling tired, nauseous, or groggy is normal.
• First 24-48 Hours: You may need to stay in the hospital in Istanbul for one or two nights. It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain, which can be controlled with painkillers. Swelling and bruising will be noticeable. Nurses will assist you with walking and changing positions. Early mobilization is important to promote blood circulation and prevent blood clots, but it should not be excessive. If you have drains, they will be monitored.
• First Week: You will begin your recovery process at home or your accommodation in Istanbul. During this time, rest as much as possible and elevate your legs (with pillows) to help reduce swelling. It is crucial to wear the special compression garment continuously for the duration specified by your doctor (usually 4-6 weeks). This garment helps control swelling, aids the skin in adapting to its new shape, and supports healing. Avoid heavy lifting, bending, and excessive stretching of the legs. You must care for your incision sites according to my instructions. If you have drains, they are typically removed within a few days.
• Weeks 2-4: Swelling and bruising will gradually begin to subside. You can move more easily but should still avoid strenuous activities. You can gradually increase your walking distance. Your stitches are usually dissolvable, or some may need to be removed during a follow-up appointment at my clinic in Istanbul. Follow-up appointments will continue during this period.
• Weeks 4-6: Most patients can return to their normal daily activities and work (that does not involve heavy physical activity) during this period. Continuing to wear the compression garment is usually still important. You can start more brisk walking and light exercises.
• After 6 Weeks: You can gradually resume heavier sports and activities like running with my approval. Most of the swelling should have subsided. Scars may still be red and noticeable but will fade over time. Scar management (silicone sheets, massage, etc.) may be recommended during this period.
• 3-6 Months and Beyond: The healing process continues. Swelling completely resolves, and the final shape of your legs becomes apparent. Scars become less noticeable, fading and flattening. Numbness or altered sensation in the skin usually improves over time. Complete healing and settling of the results can take up to a year.

Important Considerations During Recovery:

• Rest: Prioritize sufficient rest to allow your body to heal.
• Nutrition: A high-protein, balanced, and healthy diet speeds up wound healing. Adequate fluid intake is essential.
• Compression Garment: Strictly wear the garment for the duration specified by your doctor. This is one of the most important supports for healing.
• Wound Care: Keep incision sites clean and dry. Use creams or ointments recommended by your doctor. If you notice any signs of infection (redness, warmth, increasing pain, discharge), contact me immediately.
• Movement: Engage in light walking as recommended by your doctor to support blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. However, avoid overstretching or straining your legs.
• Smoking and Alcohol: Avoiding smoking and alcohol throughout the recovery period is critically important for wound healing.
• Patience: The recovery process takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow your body to heal properly.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, thigh lift surgery carries some potential risks and complications. When performed by an experienced surgeon in appropriate conditions, these risks are minimized, but they should still be understood:

• Bleeding and Hematoma (Blood Collection): Collection of blood under the wound after surgery. Small hematomas usually resolve on their own; larger ones may need to be drained surgically.
• Seroma (Fluid Collection): Collection of non-bloody fluid under the wound. Drains help reduce this risk. It can be aspirated (drained) if necessary.
• Infection: There is a risk of infection in any surgical incision. Antibiotics are used to reduce this risk. Proper wound care is crucial in preventing infection.
• Wound Healing Problems: Poor wound healing or wound separation can occur, especially in smokers, diabetic patients, or in areas where incisions are under excessive tension.
• Anesthesia Risks: General risks associated with general anesthesia (rarely can be serious).
• Sensory Changes: Temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or burning sensations may occur in the operated area. These usually improve over time.
• Asymmetry: A minimal degree of asymmetry between the legs is possible. Slight asymmetries are also naturally present in the body’s structure.
• Poor Scarring: Risk of noticeable or raised scars (hypertrophic or keloid). Individual skin type and genetic predisposition can play a role. Scar management helps reduce this risk.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism: Risk of blood clots forming in the leg veins. Early mobilization, use of compression stockings, or special pumps are important measures to reduce this risk. These risks are quite rare but potentially life-threatening.

I will discuss these risks with you in detail during your consultation, explaining how they apply to your specific situation and the measures we take to minimize them here in Istanbul. Remember, proper information and open communication with your surgeon are the most important parts of this process.

How Long Do Thigh Lift Surgery Results Last?

The results achieved with thigh lift surgery are generally long-lasting. The excess skin that is removed will not grow back. However, the permanence of the results depends on the individual’s lifestyle. Significant weight fluctuations after surgery can cause the skin to stretch and sag again. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a stable, healthy weight are the best ways to preserve the results of your surgery for many years. The aging process will continue, but the tightness achieved through the surgery will significantly elevate your baseline appearance.

Thigh Lift Surgery vs. Liposuction

A frequently asked question is whether liposuction can substitute for a thigh lift. Liposuction (fat removal) is an effective method for removing localized fat deposits. However, liposuction does not significantly improve skin laxity. If the skin has lost its elasticity and is sagging, performing only liposuction can actually make the sagging more noticeable. Therefore, thigh lift surgery is often performed in conjunction with liposuction to remove both excess skin and, if needed, excess fat. Liposuction helps contour the area, while the lifting procedure tightens the skin and corrects sagging. The decision on which procedure(s) are suitable for you will be made after your examination.

Your Thigh Lift Surgery Experience with Dr. Ahmet Kaplan in Istanbul

At my clinic in Istanbul, the thigh lift surgery process is built upon a personalized approach for you. From the initial consultation to pre-operative preparations, surgery day, and throughout your entire recovery journey, my team and I are here to support you.

My utmost priority is for you to feel safe, well-informed, and comfortable every step of the way. You are encouraged to ask all your questions, share your concerns, and understand every phase of the surgery. I perform surgeries in fully equipped, accredited hospitals here in Istanbul, adhering to the highest safety standards. During your post-operative follow-up appointments at my clinic, I closely monitor your healing progress and provide tailored advice.

My goal is not just to improve the physical appearance of your legs but also for this change to make a positive contribution to your overall quality of life and self-confidence. Having firmer, more shaped, and proportionate legs instead of sagging ones can free you up in your clothing choices, make you feel more comfortable when exercising, and most importantly, make you happy with the image you see in the mirror.

Taking the First Step: Schedule Your Consultation in Istanbul

If you are bothered by sagging or laxity in your legs and are wondering what can be done, it might be time to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. Remember, thigh lift surgery is a significant decision, and embarking on this journey with informed steps is always the best approach.

Through a detailed examination and personalized consultation at my clinic in Istanbul, we can determine the most suitable course of action for you together. I will evaluate the current condition of your legs, listen to your expectations, and create a treatment plan specifically tailored to you. This consultation is an excellent opportunity to understand if thigh lift surgery is right for you, learn about the different techniques, and get answers to all your questions, right here in Istanbul.

Remember, one of the most beautiful investments you can make is in rebuilding your self-confidence.

I wish you healthy, happy, and confident days.

With Love and Respect,

Dr. Ahmet Kaplan