Thigh lift – For slim, toned legs

Thigh lift: Information at a glance

duration of the surgery2h
anesthesiageneral anesthetic
hospital stay1 - 2 nights
Post op6 weeks of compression garments day and night
socially acceptableafter 8 days
Costsaway. €8.400

Sagging skin in the thigh area can occur after significant weight loss, as part of the natural aging process, or due to weakened connective tissue. Many sufferers find the excess skin disturbing – both visually and functionally. A surgical thigh lift provides targeted relief: At our clinic in Berlin, we remove excess skin and reshape the silhouette of the legs – for a smooth, contoured appearance.

When is a thigh lift useful?

A thigh lift is recommended if:

  • the skin in the thigh area is very slack

  • disturbing excess skin after weight loss

  • Sport and skin care no longer provide sufficient firming

  • Friction, skin irritation or hygiene problems occur

  • a harmonious body image is desired – e.g. as part of a body lift

The decision to tighten is always made individually and after thorough medical consultation.

Procedure of the operation

Thigh lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia at our Berlin clinic and takes approximately 2–3 hours, depending on the findings. A short inpatient stay of 1–2 days is usually recommended.

Overview of the process:

  1. Precise marking of the skin areas to be removed in stand

  2. Incision along the inner thigh, possibly extending to the knee (depending on the severity)

  3. Removal of skin and, if necessary, fatty tissue, often in combination with liposuction

  4. Modeling of the soft tissue mantle and low-tension wound closure

  5. Application of a compression bandage to support healing

The goal is always a natural contour with the most inconspicuous scarring possible.

Possible risks and complications

As with any surgical procedure, certain complications can occur with a thigh lift. These include:

  • swelling, bruising

  • Wound healing disorders, especially in the groin area

  • temporary numbness or tension

  • Scarring or scar widening

  • In rare cases, infections, seromas or lymphatic congestion

Through many years of experience, careful planning and clinical follow-up, we minimize the risk and ensure a safe procedure.

Aftercare and behavior after surgery

Consistent aftercare is crucial for a good surgical outcome:

  • Wear compression garments for about 6 weeks

  • physical rest in the first 2 weeks

  • Avoid sports, saunas and strenuous physical activity for 4–6 weeks

  • Scar care from the third week (e.g. silicone plaster or gel)

  • Consistent sun protection for the scar area over several months

  • regular medical check-ups in our clinic

The results develop gradually – after about 6 months the final result can be easily assessed.

Result: A new body feeling

Once healing is complete, the thighs appear noticeably tighter, and the skin appears smoother and firmer. Physical mobility improves—and often self-confidence as well. The results are usually permanent, provided weight and skin care remain stable.

Why our clinic in Berlin?

As a licensed clinic, we offer our patients maximum medical safety, modern operating rooms, inpatient care, and personalized aftercare. Dr. Juliane Bodo has many years of experience in body contouring surgery and will accompany you with empathy and professional expertise on your journey to a new body image.

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Schedule a free consultation at our clinic in Berlin. We'll take the time to understand your needs and preferences and develop the best possible treatment strategy.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about thigh lift

Ideal for healthy patients of stable weight who suffer from significantly sagging skin on the thighs – for example, after weight loss or with age. Light fat deposits can also be treated with liposuction.

At our clinic in Berlin, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Excess skin (possibly combined with liposuction) is removed, the underlying tissue is tightened, and the wound is closed with fine sutures. The surgery takes approximately 2–3 hours, and you will usually stay in hospital for 1–2 days afterward.

Yes, depending on the extent of the tightening. Often, there are inconspicuous scars in the groin, combined with a longitudinal incision on the inside. However, with careful incision placement and scar care, these are usually unnoticeable.

Light exercise and movement are possible after just 1–2 weeks. Office work is often possible again after 7–10 days; for physically demanding activities, you should take a break for 4–6 weeks. The compression garment is usually worn for 6 weeks. .

Possible side effects include swelling, bruising, numbness, impaired wound healing, scarring, fluid accumulation, and, rarely, infections. However, with careful execution and aftercare, these are rare.

Yes – with a constant weight and a healthy lifestyle, the results are stable over the long term. Age- or weight-related changes can influence the results.

Recommended when fat deposits remain despite skin tightening. Liposuction and skin tightening can be efficiently combined in one procedure – for a harmonious result.

Light exercise such as walking is permitted after about 1–2 weeks. You should avoid strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks after the procedure to protect the scars and promote healing.

Since this is usually a cosmetic procedure, insurance companies do not cover the costs. In cases of medically justified reasons—such as skin irritation or restricted mobility—partial coverage may be possible. Please clarify this with your insurance provider in advance.

Authorized by dr Julian Bodo

last updated on 18.06.2025

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