Overview
Thigh Lift (Thighplasty) involves the removal of excess thigh skin and tissue, to create trim, beautiful results. The usual method involves an incision that wraps around the upper, inner thigh, from the groin to the fold under the buttocks. Allowing for a hidden scar, this method maximally removes excess tissue from the upper, inner and posterior thigh. Another approach that leaves a more obvious scar but allows for better removal of lower, inner thigh skin, uses an incision on the inner thigh that runs from the knee upward.
About Thigh Lift
The thigh lift procedure results usually last for 5-10 years. You could try and maintain your weight after the procedure for a longer-lasting result. In general, people with a good healthy weight-to-height ratio are considered good candidates for an upper leg lift. People suffering from obesity will probably have too much fat in their thighs to achieve their desired results from this procedure. Even if you are at a healthy weight for your height, there is a chance that your concerns are caused by excess adipose tissue deposits rather than sagging skin, excess skin, or loose muscles. Candidates for a thigh lift have:
- Relatively stable weight
- Excess soft tissue along the inner (medial) thigh region and/or the outer (lateral) thigh
- No medical conditions impair healing or increase the risk of surgery
- No smoking habits
- A positive outlook and realistic goal for what thigh lift surgery can accomplish
- Commitment to leading a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and fitness
What is a Thigh Lift?
A thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the contours and tone of your thighs. This surgery works by removing excess fat and sagging skin, resulting in smoother skin and better-proportioned contours of the thighs and lower body.
The most common reason for a thigh lift is to help reshape and smooth the thigh area after significant weight loss. Major weight loss can lead to poor skin tone and loss of elasticity in areas that store excess fat, like your thighs. This can cause cellulite or lumpy, dimpled skin, rashes or chafing, bleeding and discoloration, and sagging skin.
Some people also opt for the procedure to gain more shapeliness and to feel more comfortable wearing swimsuits, shorts, and jeans. It also relieves pain and irritation that occurs when your thighs continuously rub against each other.
A thigh lift is an invasive cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the thigh area. If you’re considering this procedure after weight loss, doctors recommend that you’re at a steady weight for at least 6 months and that you’ve already achieved your goal weight. This is because weight fluctuations can interfere with results post-thigh lift surgery.
It's important to know that a thigh lift is a major surgery that can pose a variety of risks, especially if you have underlying health issues or if you’re not at your goal weight. Considering the invasive nature of the surgery, it’s a good idea to research the procedure before undergoing one.
Thigh Lift Side Effects
Bleeding
Poor wound healing
Bruising
Tightness
Numbness
Seroma
Asymmetry
Scarring
Discoloration
Infection
Blood clot formation
Fat necrosis
Thigh Lift Recovery
Although the recovery time differs for each patient, they should rest for 2-3 weeks after the surgery, and return to regular activities in 6 weeks. There will be visible bruising and swelling during the first two weeks.
Thigh Lift Procedure
Types of Thighplasty
Thighplasty, also known as a thigh lift, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. There are several types of thighplasty, each designed to address specific areas and conditions:
Mini Thigh Lift: This procedure requires fewer incisions than other types of thigh lifts, only involving an incision in your groin area. It works well if you’re wanting to focus on the upper-inner part of your thigh only.
Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift: A medial thigh lift is the most common form of this cosmetic surgery. It addresses sagging skin in your inner thighs via an incision from your groin down toward your knee or toward the back of your thigh area.
Outer (Bilateral) Thigh Lift: An outer thigh lift addresses the outside portions of your thighs. The procedure involves an incision that starts in your groin area, then extends outward to your hip and lower back area.
Vertical Thigh Lift: If you’re looking to address a lot of excess skin in all areas of your thighs, you may consider a vertical thigh lift. It requires larger incisions that extend down to your knees. However, due to a higher risk for complications, your surgeon may not recommend this type of thigh lift.
Spiral Thigh Lift: This technique targets the front, back, inner and outer thigh all at once. The incision is made at the top of the thigh where the lower edge of a bikini bottom would be, which makes the scar less visible.
Posterior Lift: This procedure focuses on lifting the buttocks and outer thighs. The incision is made across the back, above the buttocks.
Thigh Lift with Liposuction: In some cases, the thigh area may have poor skin elasticity. Your surgeon may recommend liposuction in addition to thigh lift surgery to help remove excess fat cells and prevent sagging skin.
Each type of thighplasty has its own benefits and risks, and the choice of procedure will depend on the individual’s specific needs and the surgeon’s expertise.
How is a thigh lift performed?
A thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the thighs by reducing excess skin and fat, resulting in smoother skin and better contours for the thighs and lower body. Here’s what typically happens during a thigh lift:
Anesthesia: Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The options include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best option for you.
Incision: Your surgeon marks your thigh area to indicate the location of the incisions and injects a local anesthetic. Incision patterns vary based on the area or areas to be treated, degree of correction and patient and surgeon preference. One technique used for a thigh lift places incisions in the groin, extending downward and wrapping around the back of the thigh. Another technique removes excess skin from the groin down to the knee using an incision along the inseam. You may also qualify for a minimal incision inner thigh lift that involves an incision only in the groin area. Improving the contours of the outer thigh may require an incision extending from the groin around the hip and across the back.
Removal of excess skin and fat: Your surgeon makes an incision in the groin or buttocks area and removes any excess fat and skin along the inner or outer thigh. The incision location will depend on the type of thigh lift you and your surgeon decide on.
Reshaping and suturing: After the removal of excess skin and fat, the remaining skin is smoothed over the new contour of your thigh. Deep sutures within underlying tissues help to form and support the newly shaped contours. Sutures, skin adhesive tapes or clips may be used to close the skin incisions.
Recovery: After the surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and your thighs may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling.
Remember, every individual is unique and the exact procedure may vary based on your specific situation and your surgeon’s approach. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions to ensure the best possible outcome.
Thigh lift aftercare
After undergoing a thigh lift, or thighplasty, there are several steps you should take to ensure a successful recovery:
Post-Surgery Sensations: As the anesthesia wears off, you may feel dizzy, disoriented, and nauseous. These sensations should pass within a few hours.
Compression Garment: Your thighs may be in a compression garment or wrap immediately following surgery. Wear this exactly as directed.
Drain Management: Depending on the extent of your thigh lift, you may have tubes in your incision to drain away fluid. Your surgeon should provide you with detailed instructions for managing your drains.
Assistance: You must have a responsible adult or nurse take you home and remain with you continuously for at least 24 hours after surgery.
Diet: Drink only liquids for the first few hours after surgery. Advance slowly to small, light meals.
Activity: Start walking as soon as possible, as this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots. However, avoid strenuous activities that involve leg movements, such as jogging or heavy lifting for six to eight weeks.
Rest: A balance of rest and reduced activity will speed up your recovery.
Pain Management: You will have a mild to moderate amount of pain and discomfort. You can control this pain with oral medications.
Follow-up: Follow all the patient care instructions your surgeon provides, including information about wearing compression garments and the level of activity that is safe for you.
Recovery Time: The typical thigh lift recovery timeline involves 2-3 weeks for general recovery, with most patients returning to work within 1-2 weeks. It takes about 6 weeks for the body to fully recover and resume all activities, including exercise.
Thigh Lift in Iran
Equipped hospitals, clinics, and advanced specialized centers with experienced doctors and specialists are available in all medical treatment areas in Iran. Also, good hotels and entertainment centers have made Iran an appropriate choice for patients who are in need of a Thigh Lift.
Thigh Lift Cost in Iran
The cost of a thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, in Iran is significantly more affordable compared to many Western countries. The price range for thigh lift procedure in Iran varies, with costs ranging from 1900-3800 USD. This bundled price typically includes the surgeon’s fees, hospital stays, anesthesia, medications, compression garments, and postoperative care.
It’s important to note that the exact cost can depend on various factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the specific needs of the patient. The affordability of thigh lifts in Iran, combined with the high quality of services, makes it an attractive destination for international patients. Iran boasts modern hospitals and clinics equipped with the latest technologies, staffed with highly trained and caring nurses. Furthermore, Iranian plastic surgeons are known for their expertise and refined skills in thigh lift techniques.
However, it’s crucial to remember that while cost is an important factor, it should not be the only consideration when choosing a location for surgery. The surgeon’s expertise, the quality of care, and the potential for a successful outcome should also be key considerations. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for a comprehensive understanding of the costs and benefits associated with a thigh lift in Iran.
