Thigh Lift Surgery in Sydney
Technical Explanation of the Procedure
Thigh lift surgery in Sydney, also known as thighplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess skin and improve thigh contour. Many patients notice loose or sagging thigh skin after significant weight loss, natural ageing, or genetic factors. As a result, the thighs may appear less firm, and clothing may feel uncomfortable due to skin friction or excess tissue. For this reason, thigh lift surgery is commonly performed as part of post-massive weight loss surgery, particularly when excess skin affects multiple lower-body regions.
A/Prof. Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS) tailors thigh-lift surgery in Sydney to each patient’s anatomy, skin quality, and goals. During a consultation, Dr. Tim assesses skin laxity, fat distribution, and scar placement options. He then discusses suitability, recovery, risks and realistic outcomes as part of informed consent. Importantly, results vary between individuals.
In addition, Dr Tim may discuss whether related procedures—such as lower body lift or pubic liposuction and pubic lift—may better address overall lower-body contour in selected patients.
What a Thigh Lift Can Address
Thigh lift surgery may help improve:
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loose or sagging thigh skin
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thigh contour after major weight loss
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excess tissue causing skin rubbing or discomfort
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thigh shape and proportion in selected patients
However, a thigh lift is not a weight-loss procedure. Instead, it focuses on reshaping and tightening soft tissues where skin laxity persists despite exercise and a healthy weight.
Furthermore, some patients also have abdominal or hip skin laxity. Therefore, Dr Tim may recommend assessing options such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or extended abdominoplasty (extended tummy tuck) as part of a staged plan.
Types of Thigh Lift Surgery
Dr Tim selects the type of thigh lift based on the location of the most significant skin laxity. Therefore, the procedure plan varies by patient.
Mini thigh lift (limited inner thigh lift)
A mini thigh lift targets the upper inner thigh and involves a smaller incision. This option may suit patients with mild skin laxity concentrated near the groin crease.
Vertical thigh lift
A vertical thigh lift addresses more significant laxity of the inner thigh. It typically involves a vertical incision along the inner thigh to remove excess skin.
Outer thigh lift
An outer thigh lift targets the outer thigh and hip region. Dr Tim may combine this with other body contouring procedures when appropriate, especially in post-weight loss patients. For this reason, Dr Tim may also discuss whether lower body lift provides a more comprehensive contouring outcome in selected cases.
Liposuction and Contour Refinement (Selected Patients)
In selected patients, Dr Tim may combine thigh lift surgery with liposuction. This approach can:
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reduce localised fat deposits
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improve contour transitions
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refine overall thigh shape
However, suitability depends on skin elasticity and laxity. Dr Tim confirms the safest plan during the consultation.
Incisions, Scarring and Recovery
Thigh lift surgery requires incisions, and scarring is expected. For this reason, Dr Tim places incisions strategically to make scars as discreet as possible while achieving appropriate correction. In addition, many patients seek a coordinated body contouring journey. Therefore, Dr Tim may discuss the timing of related procedures such as arm lift (brachioplasty) or upper body lift when skin laxity affects the upper body as well.
Following surgery, swelling and bruising are common early in recovery. Dr Tim provides detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up planning. Importantly, recovery timelines vary based on the extent of surgery and the individual’s healing response.
Suitability for thigh lift surgery in Sydney is confirmed during consultation.
Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.
Safety, training and professional standards
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).
Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.
