Best Thigh lift surgery in Turkey | 2025 Cost, Reviews and Before & After Results

Thigh lift surgery is a procedure aimed at achieving a firmer and more aesthetic appearance by surgically removing loose skin and excess tissue in the upper thigh area. It is generally preferred due to deformities caused by aging, significant weight loss, or genetic factors.

Inner thigh lift surgery is the most commonly performed method, with incisions hidden in the groin area. The surgeon removes excess skin and fat tissue, eliminating looseness in the region. This results in a smoother and tighter contour between the legs.

Combined procedures provide more noticeable results when performed together with liposuction. While liposuction reduces excess fat tissue, the lifting procedure improves skin elasticity. Thus, an ideal balance between form and function is achieved.

During the postoperative recovery period, swelling, bruising, and temporary pain may occur. It is recommended to wear a special compression garment during the first few weeks. Thigh lift surgery is an effective surgical option that enhances individuals’ body perception and quality of life with its long-lasting results.

Who is a Thigh Lift suitable for and why is it needed?

Today, there is a significant increase in the number of people who have undergone bariatric surgery or who have lost a large amount of weight through their own efforts. Although this condition, which we describe as “massive weight loss,” is a major success in terms of general health, it often leaves behind a loose skin structure that causes aesthetic and functional problems. When weight loss is complete, fat tissue decreases, but the expanded skin surface does not shrink proportionally. This leads to sagging on the inner thighs, resembling “bat wings.”

However, patients who have lost weight are not the only group who may need this surgery. Individuals with genetically weak connective tissue, those who experience a decline in skin quality due to aging, or women who develop body deformities after multiple pregnancies are also suitable candidates for a thigh lift. A patient’s general health status, a stabilized body mass index (BMI), and realistic expectations are key factors when deciding on surgery.

Some criteria we evaluate when determining suitable candidates for a thigh lift include:

• The degree of skin laxity
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Distribution of fat tissue
• General health condition
• Smoking habits
• Weight stability

Is a Thigh Lift performed solely for aesthetic reasons?

When people think of aesthetic surgery, the desire to look better or more beautiful usually comes to mind first. However, in the case of patients with excessive weight loss, a Thigh Lift is often no longer an aesthetic choice, but a medical necessity. Excess skin on the inner thighs leads to serious functional problems that limit the patient’s daily life.

Hanging skin folds constantly rub against each other while walking, causing irritation. This friction can become unbearable, especially during hot weather or physical activity. Moist, non-ventilated areas form between the skin folds, creating an environment prone to infections. Many patients report having to keep their legs apart while walking, which leads to posture problems and even lower back pain. Additionally, being unable to wear desired clothing or feeling uncomfortable due to sounds created by skin friction may cause social isolation.

The main functional problems experienced by patients are:

• Difficulty walking
• Chronic chafing
• Skin infections
• Limited mobility
• Clothing incompatibility
• Hygiene problems
• Fungal infections
• Painful irritations

Is liposuction alone sufficient instead of a Thigh Lift?

This is one of the most common misconceptions among patients. Liposuction and a Thigh Lift are two different procedures that complement each other but serve completely different purposes. Liposuction is an excellent method for removing excess fat under the skin by suction, but its tightening effect on the skin is quite limited.

If a patient has very good skin quality, good elasticity, and only regional excess fat, liposuction alone may be sufficient. However, the main issue in the majority of patients seeking a thigh lift is not excess fat, but skin looseness. When liposuction is applied alone to a leg with significant sagging, the skin may sag even more because the supportive internal structure (fat) is removed. This can be compared to a balloon that deflates; when the air (fat) is removed, the outer surface (skin) wrinkles. Therefore, in patients who have lost skin elasticity, the excess skin must be surgically removed. The modern approach often combines both methods: first, liposuction is used to refine the area, and then the excess skin is removed using Thigh Lift techniques.

How should the preparation process before a Thigh Lift be?

The foundation of a successful surgical outcome is laid not in the operating room, but during the preoperative preparation period. Since the recovery period of a Thigh Lift requires precision, the patient’s body must be ready for this process. First, a detailed medical history is taken. Chronic conditions that may affect wound healing, such as diabetes, heart diseases, or circulatory disorders, must be kept under control.

The most emphasized issue during this period is smoking. Due to nicotine and other toxic substances it contains, smoking constricts blood vessels and significantly reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches the tissues. Since a large tissue area is operated on during a thigh lift and stitch lines require healthy blood circulation, smoking impairs wound healing, causes wound separation, and may even lead to tissue loss. Therefore, quitting smoking at least 4 to 8 weeks before surgery is of vital importance.

If circulatory problems such as varicose veins exist, a vascular surgery specialist may need to evaluate the patient before the operation. Eating habits should also be reviewed, and a protein-rich diet should be adopted to strengthen the body.

Preoperative considerations include:

• Quitting smoking
• Stopping blood thinners
• Vitamin supplementation
• Protein-rich diet
• Weight stabilization
• Varicose vein evaluation
• General health screening

Which Thigh Lift technique will be used?

There is no “single technique for everyone” in thigh lift procedures. Surgical planning is completely personalized based on the amount and location of excess skin. To determine the degree of deformity, we examine the patient both standing and lying down. Evaluating how much the skin sags under the influence of gravity is critical for selecting the correct technique. In general, three main techniques are used.

The first is the horizontal thigh lift. This technique is preferred when the excess skin is located mainly in the upper thigh area near the groin. The incision is hidden within the groin fold and extends toward the buttock crease. Its advantage is that the scar remains inside the underwear or bikini line. However, this method is not effective for sagging that extends to the lower thighs or the knees.

The second technique is the vertical thigh lift. In patients who have lost excessive weight, sagging often extends from the groin down to the knee. In this case, simply lifting from above is not enough; the circumference of the thigh must also be reduced. A vertical incision is made from the groin down toward the knee. This technique significantly narrows the thigh circumference and provides the most pronounced contour improvement. Its disadvantage is the presence of a long scar on the inner thigh, invisible while standing but noticeable when the legs are apart.

The third option is combined techniques. In patients with extensive excess skin in both the horizontal and vertical directions, T-shaped or L-shaped incisions may be used. These techniques are preferred for advanced deformities and are often part of “Body Lift” surgeries for full-body contouring.

The surgical techniques used include:

• Horizontal Thigh Lift
• Vertical Thigh Lift
• L-Type Thigh Lift
• T-Type Thigh Lift
• Total Body Lift

What is the modern “Liposuction Assisted Medial Thigh Lift (LAMeT)”?

In traditional thigh lift techniques, simply cutting and removing the skin had the potential risk of damaging the underlying lymphatic vessels and nerve structures. However, with advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques, a safer approach—“Liposuction Assisted Medial Thigh Lift” (LAMeT)—has become our standard method.

In this technique, we do not start by making an incision. First, a special solution is administered to prepare the tissues. Then, comprehensive liposuction is applied to the skin area planned for removal and its surroundings. While this process eliminates fat tissue under the skin, it preserves blood vessels and lymphatic channels. After liposuction, the skin loosens and gently separates from the underlying tissues. This minimizes the need to dissect deep structures when removing the skin surgically. Because lymphatic channels and major vessels are protected, postoperative swelling (edema) is reduced, healing is faster, and complication risks decrease significantly. Scientific studies show that liposuction support reduces complication rates by nearly half. This technique both facilitates the surgeon’s work and maximizes patient safety.

Advantages of the LAMeT technique include:

• Preservation of lymphatic channels
• Less bleeding
• Faster healing
• Reduced edema
• Lower risk of nerve damage
• Smoother contour

Which additional technologies are used during Thigh Lift surgery?

Simply lifting the skin may not always provide the perfect result. To improve skin quality and ensure tighter adherence between tissues, we use energy-based devices. The VASER liposuction technology, in particular, uses ultrasonic sound waves to break down fat. Since this technology selectively targets fat, it does not damage connective tissues, blood vessels, or nerves.

Additionally, Plasma energy or Radiofrequency technologies may be incorporated into the procedure. These devices deliver controlled thermal energy beneath the skin, causing collagen fibers to contract and the skin to tighten. When applied to the undersurface of the skin during surgery, this assists not only in the surgical lifting effect but also in the skin’s natural tightening. This helps prevent rippling and results in a smoother and firmer leg appearance.

Are the results of Thigh Lift surgery permanent, and can sagging return?

One of the most important technical details of this surgery is how the skin is suspended against gravity. Simply stitching skin to skin does not provide a long-term permanent result. Skin is an elastic structure and may loosen again due to gravity. Additionally, downward shifting of the incision line may distort genital aesthetics and widen the scar.

To prevent these issues, we use techniques known as “deep fascial anchoring” or the “Lockwood Principle.” In this method, the lifted thigh skin is secured internally to the tough, non-stretch connective tissue in the groin region, known as Colles fascia. In other words, the load is carried not by the skin but by the body’s strong internal supportive structures. This anchoring effect keeps the scar stable, prevents genital distortion, and helps maintain the achieved tightness for many years.

Of course, the long-term permanence of results also depends on the patient’s lifestyle. Excessive weight gain or loss after the procedure may cause the skin to stretch again. However, in patients who maintain a stable weight and adopt a healthy lifestyle, the results are typically permanent for life.

Is Thigh Lift surgery risky, and what complications may occur?

As with any surgical procedure, Thigh Lift surgery carries certain risks. However, with proper patient selection and meticulous surgical technique, these risks can be minimized. The thigh region is anatomically rich in lymph nodes and large blood vessels, making surgical expertise extremely important.

One of the most common postoperative issues is “seroma,” which is a buildup of fluid in the spaces between tissues during healing. To prevent this, drains are placed during surgery, and patients are instructed to wear special compression garments. Delayed wound healing or minor wound separation may also occur but usually resolves with proper dressing care.

Possible complications include:

• Seroma
• Hematoma
• Surgical site infection
• Wound separation
• Prominent scarring
• Asymmetry
• Sensory changes

What is the recovery process after Thigh Lift surgery?

The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the patient may need to stay in the hospital for one or two nights. One of the most reassuring aspects for our patients is that the pain experienced after surgery is typically much milder than expected. A slight discomfort may occur, but it is easily managed with pain medication.

The most critical part of the recovery process is the use of a compression garment. Patients must wear a medical compression garment for approximately 4 to 6 weeks. This garment helps control swelling and ensures that the skin adheres properly to its new position. We encourage patients to start walking the day after surgery. Walking promotes blood circulation, reduces the risk of clot formation, and speeds up recovery. In the early days, small steps may be necessary to avoid tension on the stitches.

Return to daily life is usually possible within 2 weeks, but heavy exercise should be avoided for 6–8 weeks. Maintaining good hygiene, taking prescribed medications regularly, and not missing follow-up appointments are essential for smooth recovery.

Postoperative considerations include:

• Use of compression garment
• Early mobilization
• Wound care
• Adequate water intake
• Avoiding heavy lifting
• Avoiding smoking
• Regular dressing changes

When do Thigh Lift scars fade?

One of the most common concerns among our patients is scarring. In a thigh lift, an incision must be made to remove the excess skin, and this inevitably leaves a scar. However, in aesthetic surgery, our goal is to hide the scar as much as possible and ensure it fades over time.

In horizontal thigh lifts, the scar is hidden in the groin, while in vertical lifts, it remains on the inner thigh. In the first few months, scars may appear red and raised, which is a normal part of the healing process. Around the 6th month, scars begin to fade, soften, and lighten in color. Full scar maturation may take up to one year. During this time, scar creams, silicone sheets, or laser treatments may be used to improve scar quality. Most patients consider the thin line that remains on the inner thigh an acceptable trade-off for achieving firmer legs and improved mobility.