West Coast Plastic Surgery

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Thigh Lift/Reduction

Thigh Lift/Reduction

an illustration of a woman's legs after a thigh lift

A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a surgical procedure that may be considered to address excess skin and localised soft tissue in the thighs. It is typically performed in individuals who experience changes in skin elasticity or persistent tissue redundancy, particularly following significant weight loss.

 

A thigh lift contours your thighs by removing excess fat and skin. This procedure involves the excision of excess skin and, in some cases, subcutaneous fat. In selected cases, liposuction may be used as a supplementary technique, particularly where skin elasticity is sufficient to allow natural retraction without excisional surgery. The aim is to support improved skin re-draping and physical comfort, rather than to serve as a method of weight reduction.

Our clinic is led by the Registered Specialist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), Dr Qadir Khan, a surgeon with formal training through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) committed to helping clients discuss their treatment options in relation to their physical concerns. With his advanced techniques, attention to detail, and a comprehensive understanding of the human body, Dr Khan provides thigh lift procedures that support the redistribution of soft tissue in the treated area while minimising the appearance of scars. Your first step to having a thigh reduction is to schedule an appointment with Dr Khan at West Coast Plastic Surgery. As of July 1st, 2023, all patients will require a referral from a GP, something which will also allow you to apply for a Medicare rebate (special conditions apply). You may be eligible for some rebate from your private health provider if you fulfil certain criteria which Dr Khan will explain during your consultation. You can also contact us by phone at 0862303041 or by fax at 0862303042. Alternatively, you can send an email to admin@westcoastplasticsuregry.com.au. Someone from the team will contact you to book your appointment for thigh lift (thighplasty) and answer any questions you may have about surgery of the inner thighs or outer thigh lifts.

Following your procedure, you may be required to wear a compression garment for a few weeks to reduce swelling and promote healing. You will receive more detailed instructions from Dr Khan. While some visible changes may be apparent shortly after surgery, final outcomes generally become clearer over time, as swelling gradually subsides. In some cases, outcomes may be sustained over time, particularly when supported by general health maintenance and weight stability. Skin elasticity is lost with age, along with thickness. However, your initial improvements should be long-lasting. Usually, you will be required to stay for one night in the hospital. Provided you can mobilise safely and any pain or discomfort can be managed with oral medication, you will go home the day after surgery. You will be required to wear a compression garment after surgery to help with swelling. Any heavy lifting or strenuous activity including sports should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

After your first consultation with Dr Khan, he will assess what procedure is perfect for you and will provide you with the cost for this personalised procedure.

Risks & Complications

Infection, bleeding / hematoma, wound breakdown / healing issues, hypertrophic / keloid scars, swelling, bruising, seroma, pain, thigh asymmetry, scar asymmetry, scar migration, paresthesia, fat necrosis (subcutaneous lumps), revision surgery, lower limb lymphoedema, clots in legs & lungs.

Understanding Thigh Lifts

To make an informed decision about thigh lift surgery, it’s essential to understand what the procedure entails, how it works, and whether it’s the right solution for you.

Why Choose West Coast Plastic Surgery?

Choosing the right clinic and surgeon for your thigh lift surgery is a crucial decision. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we offer a blend of expertise, experience, trust, safety, and confidentiality.

Expertise and Experience: At the helm of our clinic is Dr Qadir Khan, an Specialist Plastic Surgeon with rigorous training from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). This advanced training has equipped Dr Khan with a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, advanced surgical techniques, and patient care.

With extensive experience and training, Dr Khan has performed many thigh lift surgeries, each one adding to his knowledge and expertise. He believes in continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest developments in plastic surgery.

His expertise is complemented by a dedicated team of professionals who share his passion for delivering high-quality patient care. Together, we strive to provide quality surgical experience, from the initial consultation to recovery.

Trust, Safety, and Confidentiality: All the Hospitals and Day Surgeries where Dr Khan operates are fully accredited to perform these surgeries, ensuring your procedure is performed under the safest conditions. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we adhere to the highest standards of medical safety and have a stringent protocol in place to ensure your wellbeing before, during, and after the surgery. Our state-of-the-art surgical facilities are equipped with the latest technology, ensuring your procedure is performed under the safest conditions.

Alongside safety, we deeply value the trust our patients place in us. We take great care to uphold your privacy and maintain confidentiality at every step of your surgical journey. We understand the sensitive nature of cosmetic surgery, and you can rest assured that your information and records will be handled with the utmost respect and discretion.

Choosing West Coast Plastic Surgery for your thigh lift means choosing a clinic that puts you and your needs first. We are committed to providing an environment that cultivates trust, safety, and personalised care to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

The Thigh Lift Procedure

A thigh lift surgery involves multiple stages, from initial consultation to recovery. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the procedure, so you know what to expect on your transformation journey.

Initial Consultation

When you visit our clinic for a thigh lift consultation, our primary goal is to understand you and your unique needs. The consultation process starts with a private, one-on-one conversation with Dr Qadir Khan. He will take the time to understand your medical history, lifestyle habits, and personal aesthetic goals. Feel free to discuss what you hope to achieve from the thigh lift surgery, your concerns about the procedure, and any questions you may have.

Next, Dr Khan will conduct a thorough physical examination to assess your thighs’ current condition. This may include measuring or photographing your thighs for your medical record. He will evaluate factors like the amount of excess skin, the presence of fat deposits, and your skin’s elasticity. Based on this comprehensive evaluation, Dr Khan will provide an honest appraisal of what can be achieved with thigh lift surgery. He will explain the surgical process in detail, including the technique he recommends, the type of anesthesia to be used, the location of the incisions, and potential risks and complications.

At the end of the consultation, a personalised surgical plan will be developed that aligns with your aesthetic goals while ensuring your safety and wellbeing. You’ll also receive information about the cost of the procedure. Remember, the consultation is your opportunity to express your expectations and concerns. We encourage open communication and want you to leave the consultation feeling informed, reassured, and confident about your decision.

Pre-Operative Preparation

In preparation for the surgery, you’ll be given specific instructions regarding diet, medication, and lifestyle habits like smoking. Adhering to these guidelines is critical to minimise complications and promote a uneventful recovery.

Surgery Day

On the day of surgery, you’ll be administered general anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. Dr Khan will then make precise incisions in your thighs, either in the groin area or extending down to the knee, depending on the amount of skin and fat to be removed.

Excess skin and fat are carefully removed, and the remaining skin is tightened. Once the excision is complete, the incisions are sutured and bandaged. The procedure typically takes between 2 to 3 hours, but this can vary based on the specifics of your surgical plan.

Recovery Process

After the surgery, you’ll likely experience some bruising, swelling, and discomfort in the treated area. These are normal postoperative symptoms and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.

A compression garment may be recommended to support the altered contours of your thighs and minimise swelling. Most patients can return to light activities within a week or two, but strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for about six weeks or as advised by Dr Khan. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth healing process. During these appointments, any sutures will be removed, and you’ll be provided with instructions for scar care to ensure minimal visible scarring.

Every patient’s experience varies, and it’s crucial to remember that recovery takes time. Patience, proper post-operative care, and following Dr Khan’s instructions are vital for minimizing the risk of complications and sustained surgical results.

Understanding Thigh Lift Surgery

To make an informed decision about thigh lift surgery, it is important to understand what the procedure involves, how it may apply to your individual case, and what the potential risks and recovery process might include. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we support individuals by providing clear, evidence-based information to assist in their treatment planning and decision-making..

To make an informed decision about thigh lift surgery, it is important to understand what the procedure involves, how it may apply to your individual case, and what the potential risks and recovery process might include. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we support individuals by providing clear, evidence-based information to assist in their treatment planning and decision-making.

Thighplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess skin, and in some cases, underlying fat from the inner or outer thighs. This procedure may be considered for individuals experiencing persistent skin laxity or tissue redundancy, particularly after significant weight loss.

As with any surgical procedure, thigh lift surgery carries certain risks. These can include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, scarring, asymmetry, changes in skin sensation, and complications related to anaesthesia. The degree and likelihood of these risks vary between individuals and will be discussed with you in detail during your consultation with Dr Qadir Khan.

 

Any decision to undergo surgery should be based on a comprehensive clinical assessment and an understanding of both potential benefits and risks.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The cost of thigh lift surgery can vary depending on a number of factors. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we provide a detailed estimate following your consultation with Dr Khan. Please note that the cost includes surgeon’s fees, anaesthetist fees, hospital fees, and any required post-operative garments.

Like all surgical procedures, a thigh lift involves some risks, including infection, poor wound healing, bleeding, deep vein thrombosis, swelling, asymmetry, hypertrophic scars, and changes in skin sensation. However, these risks are minimised through the expertise of Dr Khan, our stringent surgical protocols, and your adherence to pre and post-operative instructions.

The duration of a thigh lift surgery varies based on the extent of the procedure but typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours.

Thigh lift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you are comfortable and feel no pain during the procedure.

Incisions are a necessary part of thigh lift surgery and do result in some scarring. However, Dr Khan utilises advanced techniques to place incisions in discrete locations, usually within the natural creases of the body, to minimise visible scarring. Post-operative scar care instructions and possible treatments will also be provided to further help reduce the appearance of scars.

Recovery varies from patient to patient, but you can expect to return to light activities within 1-2 weeks post-surgery. Return to full unrestricted activities may take up to 6-12 weeks. Swelling and bruising are common but will gradually subside. A compression garment may need to be worn for several weeks to support the healing tissues.

There’s no strict age limit for a thigh lift, but candidates should be in good health, have realistic expectations, and preferably be non-smokers. Thigh lift surgery is often sought by patients who have experienced significant weight loss, ageing, or simply alter to improve the shape and contour of their thighs. The suitability of the procedure for a person is ultimately determined during a comprehensive consultation with Dr Khan.