Dr Axel De LangePlastic Surgeon
A consultation room at the clinic, with a treatment chair beside a curtained window

Thigh Lift

Thigh Lift in Brussels · Dr Axel De Lange

A thigh lift refines the contours of the legs, improves their shape and restores a more balanced silhouette, while bringing greater comfort in everyday life.

A thigh lift, also known as cruroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to correct skin laxity, mainly on the inner thighs.

It involves removing excess skin and, where necessary, fat, then re-tightening the tissues to restore firmer, more harmonious contours.

This procedure is particularly indicated after significant weight loss or when ageing reduces the elasticity of the skin. It can also reduce the chafing and irritation caused by excess skin.

The goalTo reshape the contours of the thighs by removing excess skin, for firmer, better-proportioned legs and greater comfort in everyday life.

A thigh lift is intended for women and men with skin laxity on the inner thighs, often after significant weight loss or with ageing.

The best candidates have a relatively stable weight, good general health and realistic expectations about the results and the scars.

The procedure may also be indicated when excess skin causes chafing, irritation or discomfort in daily activities.

To regain firmer, better-proportioned thighs, while improving comfort and freedom of movement.

Medically reviewed by Dr Axel De Lange · Last reviewed

Your journey,
step by step.

The techniques

Horizontal lift

Removal of limited excess skin from the upper part of the thighs, with a scar located in the groin crease.

The techniques

Vertical lift

Correction of more pronounced laxity along the full height of the inner thighs, with a longitudinal scar.

The techniques

Combined lift

A combination of horizontal and vertical resection to treat significant excess skin, particularly after massive weight loss.

The techniques

Associated liposuction

Removal of excess fat to refine the contours and make it easier to reshape the tissues.

The techniques

Liposuction alone

A possible alternative when the excess is mainly fat and the skin has retained good elasticity.

Step 01

First consultation

This first meeting is an opportunity to analyse the shape of your thighs, the extent of the skin laxity, the distribution of excess fat and the quality of your skin.

A thorough clinical examination makes it possible to determine the most suitable technique and to assess the length and position of the scars required.

We discuss your expectations, the results you can expect and any limitations of the procedure.

To define a personalised surgical plan that balances improved thigh contours, functional comfort and discreet scarring.

Step 02

2nd consultation

This consultation confirms the surgical plan and specifies the chosen surgical technique.

The location of the scars, the anaesthesia arrangements, the risks and the post-operative course are explained in detail.

Particular attention is paid to preventing scarring and thromboembolic complications, as well as to the pre-operative recommendations that help prepare for the procedure in the best possible conditions.

To help you approach your procedure with peace of mind, with a clear understanding of how it will proceed, the expected results and the different stages of recovery.

Step 03 · The procedure

Anaesthesia

General.

Step 03 · The procedure

Duration

Usually between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the extent of the laxity and any associated procedures.

Step 03 · The procedure

Setting

Procedure performed in the operating theatre, usually with a hospital stay of one to two nights.

Step 03 · The procedure

Technique

Removal of excess skin from the inner thighs, possibly combined with liposuction, followed by re-tightening of the tissues, with the scars positioned according to the chosen technique.

Step 03 · The procedure

Recovery

Usual convalescence of 2 to 3 weeks, with a compression garment worn for 4 to 6 weeks depending on the case and a gradual return to sport after 6 to 8 weeks.

Step 04 · Follow-up

The first days

Relative rest, scar checks and pain management. Oedema and bruising may appear. Gentle, early mobilisation is encouraged to promote blood circulation.

Step 04 · Follow-up

The first few weeks

Gradual reduction of swelling and bruising. Daily activities can usually be resumed after 2 to 3 weeks, avoiding strenuous effort, friction and movements that put tension on the scars.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 1 to 2 months

Gradual return to sporting activities, usually after 6 to 8 weeks. The tissues soften and the contours of the thighs gradually become more even.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 3 to 6 months

Gradual stabilisation of the contours, reduced scar tension and improved tissue suppleness.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 6 to 12 months

Assessment of the aesthetic result and continued maturation of the scars, whose appearance can keep improving for 12 to 18 months.

Common question

Will there be visible scars?

Yes, a thigh lift leaves scars whose location depends on the extent of the skin laxity. They can be hidden in the groin crease when the excess skin is limited, or extend vertically along the inner thighs when a more extensive correction is needed. Their appearance gradually improves over the months, although they remain permanent.

Common question

Is healing difficult after this procedure?

Healing after a thigh lift can be more delicate than after other procedures, due to the friction, moisture and frequent movement in this area. Delayed healing or small wound separations may occur, particularly in the groin creases. Rigorous hygiene, appropriate local care and following the post-operative instructions help to limit these complications and promote good healing.

Common question

Can it be combined with other procedures?

Yes, a thigh lift can be combined with certain procedures, such as liposuction or an arm lift, depending on the patient's health and the extent of the planned procedures.

However, combining it with an abdominoplasty is generally not recommended, because of the tension placed on the tissues, the healing difficulties and the increased risk of post-operative thromboembolic complications. It is therefore often preferable to carry out these procedures in several stages, prioritising safety and the quality of the results.

Common question

Is it only indicated after major weight loss?

No, a thigh lift is not reserved for people who have lost a lot of weight. It is also suitable for patients with skin laxity due to ageing or a natural decline in the elasticity of the skin. The indication depends mainly on the extent of the excess skin, the quality of the skin and the aesthetic or functional discomfort experienced.

Consultation locations

Consultations are booked directly through each clinic's own platform. Appointments are not taken by phone.

See the locations

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