What a Thigh Lift Can Achieve
Ageing, weight loss and changes in skin elasticity can lead to loose, sagging skin of the inner thighs. While exercise can improve muscle tone, it cannot correct skin laxity once structural support has diminished.
A thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, addresses these concerns by removing excess skin and, where appropriate, excess fat from the inner and outer thighs. The aim of surgery is to improve thigh contour, reduce friction and restore a smoother, more proportionate lower bod ysilhouette.
Your Surgical Journey
Your surgical journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. This allows time to discuss your goals and expectations and to develop a surgical plan tailored specifically to you.
A thigh lift is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgical approach depends on the degree of skin and soft tissue laxity present. In selected cases, the incision can be positioned within the groin crease. In others, the incision extends from the groin along the inner thigh toward the knee to allow adequate correction and optimise contour. Liposuction is often performed to further refine the result.
Recovery and Aftercare
A thigh lift typically involves a one-night hospital stay. During the early recovery period, activities that place tension on the healing incisions should be avoided.
A supportive compression garment is recommended for approximately six weeks to support healing and optimise contour remodelling. You will also be guided through a structured scar management programme to promote optimal long-term scar maturation.
Return to work depends on the physical demands of your role. Desk-based work is often possible within two weeks, while more physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Is a Thigh Lift Right for You?
You may be suitable for a thigh lift if your concerns include excess skin and underlying soft tissue laxity of the thighs that does not respond to diet or exercise alone.
A consultation with Dr Collins allows for a personalised assessment and discussion of the surgical approach most appropriate for you.
Thigh Lift in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
A thigh lift, also known as thighplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and, where appropriate, excess fat from the thighs. The aim is to improve contour, firmness and overall shape of the thighs.
The extent of surgery depends on the amount and location of excess skin and tissue. Incisions are carefully planned and may be positioned in the groin crease, along the inner thigh or a combination of both, depending on the degree of correction required. Liposuction may be performed as part of the procedure to further refine contour.
Types of thigh lift include a medial (inner) thigh lift, a vertical thigh lift, or an extended thigh lift. The most appropriate technique depends on your anatomy and the distribution of excess skin. This is discussed in detail during your consultation.
Preparing well is an important part of your surgical journey. During your consultation, Dr Collins will review your medical history, anatomy, goals and expectations to help plan your surgery safely and effectively.
The best results are achieved when your weight has been stable and within a healthy range for approximately three months prior to surgery. Patients must be nicotine-free for at least six weeks before surgery, including smoking, vaping and all nicotine replacement products, as nicotine significantly impairs wound healing.
Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights, depending on the extent of surgery and individual recovery needs.
Yes. Drains are commonly used to reduce the risk of fluid build-up (seroma) and are removed during the early recovery period.
Yes. A thigh lift may be combined with liposuction or other body contouring procedures, depending on your goals and overall treatment approach. This is discussed during your consultation.
Allowing yourself time to heal is an important part of your recovery following surgery. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected initially and gradually improve. A compression garment is typically recommended for several weeks to support healing and optimise contour.
Scarring depends on the type of thigh lift performed. Incisions are carefully planned to be as discreet as possible, and scars usually fade and soften over 12 to 18 months. Dr Collins’ scar management protocol supports optimal scar healing.
Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Many patients return to desk-based work within two weeks, while more physically demanding roles may require additional time off.
Driving is usually safe once you can comfortably control the vehicle and perform an emergency stop without discomfort. This is typically around one to two weeks after surgery.
Gentle walking is encouraged early in recovery. More strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for approximately six weeks to protect your surgical result. Dr Collins will provide a personalised return-to-exercise plan tailored to you.
Thigh lift surgery is a well-established procedure. As with all surgery, there are risks involved. These include pain, bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, adverse scarring, asymmetry, seroma, haematoma, changes in sensation, contour irregularities and the potential need for revision surgery. These risks are discussed in detail during your consultation.
Yes. Surgical outcomes vary between individuals and depend on a number of factors, including anatomy, tissue quality, healing response and adherence to post-operative care. Expected outcomes, risks and limitations are discussed in detail during your consultation as part of the informed consent process.
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