Thigh lift: specialists & information

A thigh lift is particularly necessary after massive weight loss. Excess soft skin in the thigh area is not only an aesthetic flaw for many patients. They can also lead to physical impairments. The cost of a thigh lift is between EUR 3,500 and EUR 6,000.

Here you will find further information as well as selected specialists and centers for thigh lifts.

Recommended specialists

Article overview

Thigh lift - Further information

What can be the reasons for a thigh lift?

In most cases, the skin and connective tissue in the thigh area slackens after massive weight loss. This is primarily manifested by extensive excess soft skin on the inside of the legs and thighs. Sometimes the cause of sagging is also congenital.

From an aesthetic point of view, this sagging of the skin is a blemish. It can also result in serious physical impairments. These include sore areas on the inside of the thighs caused by the thigh skin rubbing against each other. The chafing increases when wearing skirts, as the thighs can then rub directly against each other.

The sore areas can be so pronounced that patients are no longer able to carry out normal physical activities such as fast walking.

What happens during and before a thigh lift?

During a thigh lift, the surgeon removes excess skin and subcutaneous fatty tissue in the thigh area, particularly on the inner thighs. This gives the entire thigh a firmer appearance.

During a preoperative consultation, the specialist will provide a comprehensive consultation. Immediately before the operation, the surgeon draws the tissue to be removed from the legs directly onto the skin. He will also determine the incision.

The thigh lift is usually performed under general anesthesia and in the presence of an anesthesiologist. The procedure is usually performed under inpatient conditions.

Oberschenkelstraffung
A thigh lift is used to remove excess skin from the thigh © © Aksana | AdobeStock

What methods are used for a thigh lift?

The surgeon usually uses one of the following methods for a thigh lift:

  • Skin incision along the groin extending backwards into the gluteal fold.
  • T-shaped incision, in which a further incision is made from the incision in the groin and gluteal fold towards the knee on the inner thigh.
  • Incision in the area of the inner thigh up to the groin, without the extension into the gluteal fold.

The incision chosen by the surgeon depends on the existing excess soft tissue and the quality of the skin.

In many cases, the procedure can also be combined with liposuction either at the same time or in a later procedure.

Follow-up treatment after a leg lift in the thigh area

After a leg lift, the patient should wear compression pants for at least six weeks. These should include the thighs.

If non-absorbable suture material was used, it will be removed after about 14 days. Refrain from physical activity and sport for at least six weeks. Avoid direct sunlight on the scars for the first six months. The rays could discolor the scars and make them appear more conspicuous.

The cost of such a procedure depends primarily on the amount of work involved and the treatment method.

Risks and complications of a thigh lift

No operation is without risk. Even with the greatest care, complications can occur during or after a procedure . Severe bleeding can occur if the superficial venous system is injured or if varicose veins are present.

Complications that can occur as a result of the operation are

  • Postoperative bleeding,
  • bruising and
  • numbness in the area of the skin next to the incision edges.

Wound healing disorders are particularly common with thigh lifts. The wounds then require considerably more time to heal and wider scars may form. These may require corrective surgery.

The formation of blood clots (thrombi) is rare. If a thrombus forms, this can lead to the blockage of a blood vessel. This can be life-threatening in the event of a pulmonary embolism, for example. Smoking and taking the contraceptive pill are factors that promote the formation of thrombi.

Whatsapp Facebook Instagram YouTube E-Mail Print