Performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Qadir Khan (FRACS)
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@wcps.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.
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.
The thigh lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The specific surgical techniques used can vary depending on your unique body structure and desired outcomes but typically involve an incision made in the groin area and sometimes along the inside of the thigh. Through this incision, Dr Khan can access and remove the excess skin and subcutaneous fat, creating a tighter skin envelope around the thigh. In some cases, liposuction may also be used to remove stubborn fat deposits.
After the reshaping is complete, the incisions are sutured and bandaged. A compression garment may be applied to minimise swelling and support the new contours of your thighs as they heal. The procedure typically takes between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.
The ideal candidate for thigh lift surgery is an individual who is in good overall health but is bothered by excess tissue along the inner front or back of the thighs. It’s crucial that candidates have a realistic understanding of what the surgery can achieve.
Candidates should be close to their ideal weight, as significant weight fluctuations after the surgery can impact the results. Those who plan to lose a significant amount of weight should do so before considering this surgery. Non-smokers or those who can quit smoking for a specific period before and after surgery are preferred, as smoking can affect the healing process.
Remember, personal consultation with Dr Khan is the best way to determine your suitability for this procedure. It provides an opportunity to discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and concerns, allowing Dr Khan to make a personalized surgical plan for you
Initital Consultation
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Qadir Khan (FRACS). We take time to understand your concerns, review your medical history and discuss suitability, options and potential risks.
Personalised Treatment Planning
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.
Specialist-Led Procedure
All procedures are performed by a Specialist Plastic Surgeon in appropriately accredited facilities. Care is delivered using established surgical techniques, with patient safety and clinical standards as the priority.
Ongoing Support & Follow-Up
Following treatment, we provide structured post-procedure care and follow-up appointments. Our team remains available to support recovery, monitor progress and address any questions throughout your care.
Our highly qualified practitioners bring extensive expertise in cosmetic medicine and skin rejuvenation, delivering safe, effective treatments tailored to your individual needs.
We utilise the latest medical-grade equipment and proven treatment modalities to address multiple skin concerns with precision and effectiveness.
Every patient receives a thorough consultation and customised treatment plan based on your specific concerns, skin type, and aesthetic goals.
We prioritise subtle, natural-looking outcomes that refresh and rejuvenate your features without appearing overdone or artificial.
We provide honest communication about treatment options, expected outcomes, and costs so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
We provide thorough aftercare guidance, follow-up appointments, and ongoing support to ensure you achieve the best possible outcomes.
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.
