Treatment body
Thigh Lift Surgery (Thighplasty) in the UK
- Improved leg contours
- Smoother, firmer thighs
- Reduction of excess skin
- Increased comfort
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Excess skin and fat on the upper legs is a common concern, especially after significant weight loss or as skin elasticity naturally decreases with ageing. A thigh lift, or thighplasty, offers a way to address these concerns by tightening and reshaping the thighs.
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, our procedures are performed by a bespoke team of highly skilled accredited professionals that will look after your every need, from initial consultation to surgery and beyond.
About
What is a thigh lift?
A thigh lift, also referred to as thigh reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the thighs, reshaping the area for improved tone and definition. The procedure may focus on the inner (medial) thigh, the outer (lateral) thigh, or both.
While results can be transformative, a thigh lift is not a weight-loss procedure. It is most suitable for individuals already at a stable, healthy weight who wish to address loose or stretched skin, often resulting from major weight loss or natural age-related changes.
Types
Types of thigh lifts
Inner (Medial) Thigh Lift
Targets sagging skin on the inner thigh. Incisions are typically placed within the groin crease and may extend down the inner leg if further correction is required.
Lateral (Outer) Thigh Lift
Addresses excess skin on the outer thighs and hips, with incisions extending from the groin to the hip area for a more lifted outer contour. This is often performed in conjunction with a completion belt lipectomy following a tummy tuck, or with a buttock lift.
Combination Thigh Lift
For patients with more extensive laxity affecting multiple areas of the thigh, a combined approach may be recommended. This technique allows for simultaneous correction of both inner and outer thigh concerns to achieve a more balanced and refined result.
benefits
What are the benefits of thigh lift surgery?
Some benefits of thigh lift surgery include improved leg contours and smoother, firmer thighs. By tightening the underlying tissues and reducing excess skin, a thigh lift can improve both appearance and comfort, making it easier to wear fitted clothing and move freely. It may also help improve hygiene in areas affected by skin folds or friction.
candidates
Who is a good candidate for thigh lift surgery?
A thigh lift is suitable for individuals who have excess skin on their thighs due to significant weight loss, ageing, or genetic factors. Ideal candidates are at a stable, healthy weight, in good overall health, and have realistic expectations about the results and scarring.
What to expect
What to expect during thigh lift surgery
Consultation
During your consultation, your surgeon will assess the amount and distribution of excess skin and any fat deposits in your thighs. They will discuss your goals, review your medical history, and evaluate factors such as skin tone and muscle structure to determine whether an inner thigh lift, a lateral thigh lift, or a combination approach is most appropriate.
Your surgeon will also explain where incisions will be placed, what results you can expect, and the recovery process. You will have the opportunity to ask questions about anaesthesia, scar placement, aftercare, and how a thigh lift can be combined with other procedures if desired.
The aim is to ensure you are fully informed, comfortable, and confident before deciding to proceed.
Anaesthesia and Procedure Time
Thigh lift surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, with most procedures taking around three to four hours. The exact duration will depend on the amount of excess skin and the specific technique required.
Incision Placement
For an inner thigh lift, incisions are typically placed just below the groin crease and may extend down the inner thigh to a variable extent. This design often resembles a hockey-stick or J-shaped pattern, which helps minimise the risk of wound breakdown commonly associated with a traditional T-scar.
For an outer (lateral) thigh lift, incisions are usually combined with a tummy tuck or buttock lift resulting in a circumferential scar, with tightening of the outer thigh. Combined with an inner (medial) thigh lift this will produce the best results. Excess skin is removed, and the underlying tissues are reshaped to create a smoother, firmer contour.
Tissue Reshaping and Skin Removal
Liposuction is often used alongside skin removal to enhance contour and help preserve deeper structures such as nerves and lymphatics. Once the excess skin and tissue have been addressed, the area is reshaped to create a smoother, more balanced thigh contour.
Closing the Incisions
The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, and dressings or compression garments are applied to support healing and reduce swelling. In some cases, drains may be placed to prevent fluid build-up in the early postoperative period.
Scar Management
While scarring is expected, your surgeon will provide advice on how to care for your scars and promote optimal healing. Scar care will also be discussed during your follow-up appointments.
Recovery
Recovery and results of thigh lift surgery
Recovery varies between individuals and depends on the extent of surgery and your body’s natural healing response. You will usually stay in the hospital overnight for monitoring and pain management.
What to expect
Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal in the early stages and can be managed with prescribed pain relief.
Compression garments
Should be worn for several weeks to reduce swelling and support your new thigh contours.
Activity and movement
Most patients can resume light activities after 2–3 weeks, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.
Scars and long-term results
Visible improvements become more apparent as swelling subsides. Scars will fade gradually and continue to soften and improve over 12–24 months.
Follow-up care
You will receive detailed aftercare instructions and attend scheduled follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor your healing and ensure optimal results. Manual lymphatic drainage is an additional procedure that is recommended in the post-operative period. We would recommend 4-6 treatments.
Risks & complications
Risks and potential complications of thigh lift surgery
Thighplasty, like any surgical procedure, carries some risk. These may include:
- Infection or bleeding
- Seroma (fluid build-up)
- Delayed wound healing
- Numbness or altered sensation
- Scarring or asymmetry
- Rare complications such as DVT or anaesthetic reaction
Your surgeon will thoroughly discuss all risks with you, ensuring you are well informed before making any decisions.
- Infection
- Bleeding or haematoma (blood collection under the skin)
- Delayed wound healing
- Swelling or fluid build-up (seroma)
- Temporary changes in sensation around the ear, including numbness or tingling
- Scarring or asymmetry
- Adverse reaction to anaesthesia
- Overcorrection or undercorrection
Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks during your consultation, ensuring you are fully informed before deciding to proceed.
The cost of a thigh lift will vary depending on the type of procedure and the complexity of the surgery. A detailed, personalised quote will be provided following your consultation and surgical assessment.
Surgeon
Meet Mr Paul Wilson
Mr Paul Wilson is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with more than 35 years of surgical experience and over 16 years as a Consultant Plastic Surgeon. He specialises in facial, breast and body aesthetic surgery, with a particular interest in rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation and complex revision surgery.
In both his NHS and private practice, Mr Wilson is known for his patient-focused approach, careful surgical planning, and commitment to achieving balanced, natural-looking results tailored to each individual.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a thigh lift done?
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon removes excess skin and tissue, reshapes the area, and closes the incisions using layered sutures to support healing.
Will I have scarring after my thigh lift?
Yes, however, incisions are planned carefully to be as discreet as possible, and most patients find their scars fade significantly over time.
Can I combine a thigh lift with other procedures?
Yes. A thigh lift can be combined with complementary procedures such as a tummy tuck, lateral thigh lift, or a lower body lift, particularly for patients who have experienced significant weight loss and require more extensive contouring.
Will thigh lift surgery improve the look of cellulite?
It may reduce the appearance of cellulite, but it is not a treatment specifically for cellulite.
How long do results last?
Thigh lift results are long-lasting, especially when you maintain a stable weight. While the improved contour is permanent, the skin will naturally lose some elasticity over time due to ageing.
How should I sit after a thigh lift?
Keeping your hips slightly bent and legs apart helps reduce strain on the incisions. Reclining with pillows beneath the knees can also be helpful during the first two weeks.
Schedule your consultation
Book a consultation with Paul Wilson Aesthetics
Patients choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics not only for the team’s surgical expertise, but also for their thoughtful, honest and patient-centred approach to aesthetic care. To get started, book a consultation where our team will discuss your concerns, outline your goals and determine if thigh lift surgery is the right option for you.
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This lovely 30-year-old patient came to see me hoping to move from an AA cup towards natural B/C cup proportions.
Her priority was to add shape and volume while keeping the result balanced with her slim frame.
We used Vectra 3D imaging during the planning process and selected 295cc high-profile Silimed True Texture Natural-Biodiesign implants.
The photographs show her before surgery and at 12 months, once the implants had settled and the result had matured.
Implant selection is about much more than volume alone. Chest width, existing breast tissue, body proportions and the patient’s preferred look all need to be considered carefully.
Every patient and every result is different. A consultation is needed to discuss what may be suitable for you.
Photos used with patients kind consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol
📍 The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#BreastAugmentation #BreastImplants #PaulWilsonAesthetics
Thinking about breast augmentation? Your consultation with Mr Paul Wilson is the first step.
Mr Wilson will talk you through your goals, expectations and the options available to you. Every patient’s breast anatomy is different, so the choice of implant needs to be tailored to your individual shape, proportions and desired result. You will have the opportunity to discuss different implant types, sizes and profiles, as well as what to expect from surgery and recovery.
Vectra 3D imaging will also be used during your consultation to help visualise how different implant sizes and shapes may look on your individual frame. It’s a useful tool for discussing your options and ensuring your treatment plan is tailored to your anatomy and goals.
It’s also a chance to ask questions, understand your options and feel fully informed before making any decision—there’s no pressure to decide on the day.
To book a consultation, please contact us using the details below:
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol
📍 The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#breastaugmentation #paulwilsonaesthetics #northwoodhospital #londonwelbeckhospital
It was lovely to catch up with my patient again this week at her six-week postoperative review.
This was not a straightforward implant exchange.
Her original breast implants had been in place for 18 years. Over time, she had developed capsular contracture, a waterfall deformity and breast ptosis, meaning the breast tissue had dropped away from the implants.
Simply replacing the implants would not have corrected all of these concerns.
During surgery, the old implants and capsules were removed. A mastopexy was then performed to lift and reshape the breast tissue, before placing 365cc high-profile round Silimed implants.
These photographs were taken just six weeks after surgery, so this is still a very early result. There is some swelling and the scars are continuing to settle, but the improvement in breast position, shape and proportion can already be seen.
Revision breast surgery requires careful planning. The condition of the capsule, the quality of the breast tissue, the nipple position and the choice of implant all need to be considered together.
Her result will continue to develop over the coming months, and I look forward to following her progress.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol
📍 The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Photographs shared with patient consent. Individual results and recovery will vary.
#BreastRevision #BreastImplantExchange #Mastopexy #breastaug #paulwilsonaesthetics @northwood_hospital
We are pleased to announce that Mr Paul Wilson will be holding his first consultation clinic at The London Welbeck Hospital on Friday 23 October.
Mr Wilson is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon with more than 35 years of surgical experience, including over 16 years as a consultant. He specialises in facial, breast and body aesthetic surgery, with particular interests in rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation and complex revision surgery.
Consultations are available for a wide range of procedures, including facelifts, neck lifts, facial implants, hairline lowering, breast surgery, VASER liposuction, body contouring and mummy makeovers.
To book your consultation with Mr Wilson, please enquire via the link in our bio or via the information below.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#newlocation #paulwilsonaesthetics #thelondonwelbeckhospital
FACELIFT AFTER WEIGHT LOSS
Significant weight loss can leave behind loose skin, reduced facial volume and a loss of definition through the face and neck.
Following her weight-loss journey, this lovely patient underwent a deep plane facelift and neck lift to address generalised tissue laxity, descended cheeks and a softened jawline.
Shown here six weeks after surgery, she has a more defined jawline and neck, restored cheek volume and softened nasolabial folds—all while maintaining a natural, refreshed appearance.
Thank you to my patient for kindly allowing me to share her results.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#deepplanefacelift #necklift #paulwilsonaesthetics
A lovely review from a patient who recently underwent hairline lowering surgery with us at Northwood Hospital Bristol.✨
We understand that patients can feel nervous when considering surgery. From the initial phone enquiry to the consultation, surgery and aftercare, our aim is to make the entire experience feel as comfortable, supportive and stress free as possible.
We are delighted to hear how positive this patient’s experience was and how happy they are with their results.
Thank you for trusting Paul and the team with your care and for sharing such kind words.
If you are considering hairline lowering surgery and would like to explore your options, please contact us to arrange a consultation.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#HairlineLowering #ForeheadReduction #PatientReview #PatientExperience #PaulWilsonAesthetics
A small change beneath the chin can make a surprisingly big difference to the whole profile.
The neck and jawline are areas where a few millimetres really matter. Fullness beneath the chin can soften the jawline and blur the natural transition between the face and neck, even in someone who is otherwise at a healthy, stable weight.
One of the reasons I like using VASER in this area is the control it gives me. Ultrasound energy is used to loosen the fat before it is carefully removed, allowing me to work precisely around the natural contours of the chin, jaw and neck.
The aim is not to remove as much fat as possible or create an overly sharp, unnatural result. It is about removing the right amount in the right places, refining the angle between the neck and chin, revealing more of the jawline and keeping everything balanced with the patient’s face.
These photographs show the same patient from two different angles. Notice the reduction in fullness beneath the chin, the clearer jawline and the smoother transition into the neck.
VASER can be particularly well suited to this area when localised fat is the main concern and the skin quality is appropriate. Every patient is different, which is why careful assessment and planning are so important.
If you are considering neck or jawline contouring and would like to understand what may be suitable for you, please get in touch to arrange a consultation.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Individual results vary.
Photos shared with patient consent.
#VASERLiposuction #NeckContouring #JawlineContouring #ChinLiposuction #paulwilsonaesthetics
VASER liposuction or traditional liposuction? It’s a question we’re asked a lot.
Both can be effective options for removing unwanted fat and improving body shape, but they work in different ways. VASER uses ultrasound energy before the fat is removed and can allow for more detailed contouring. Traditional liposuction may be more suitable when larger areas or volumes need to be treated.
There isn’t one option that is right for everyone. Your anatomy, skin quality, treatment area and the result you’re hoping to achieve all need to be considered.
During your consultation, Mr Paul Wilson will talk you through the options and recommend the approach best suited to you.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#VASERLiposuction #Liposuction #Vaser #BodyContouring #PaulWilsonAesthetics
Preservation rhinoplasty is about refining the nose while preserving its natural character and key structures where appropriate.
This lovely patient is 29 years old and is now 18 months post surgery. Her result shows a smoother bridge and a more refined tip, creating a softer, more balanced profile while keeping everything in harmony with her face.
Most importantly, she’s delighted with her result.
Swipe to view the result from another angle and learn more about preservation rhinoplasty.
Every rhinoplasty is planned individually following consultation.
Images shared with the patient’s full consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#preservationrhinoplasty #rhinoplasty #rhinoplastybeforeandafter #paulwilsonaesthetics
Before and immediately after preservation rhinoplasty.
These operating-theatre photographs show the change in profile directly after surgery. The bridge has been carefully refined while maintaining a natural shape that remains in keeping with the rest of the face.
Preservation rhinoplasty uses techniques designed to retain as much of the nose’s natural structure as possible while making the planned changes to its shape.
At this stage, swelling is already present and will continue to change during recovery, so this should not be viewed as the final result.
As with any rhinoplasty, the surgical plan is tailored to the individual patient’s anatomy and the changes they would like to achieve.
Images shared with patient consent. Individual results will vary.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#PreservationRhinoplasty #Rhinoplasty #NoseSurgery #PaulWilsonAesthetics
A refreshed, natural result at six months.
This lovely 69-year-old patient came to see me hoping to improve the signs of ageing around her eyes, cheeks, jawline and neck, while still looking like herself.
She underwent a face and neck lift, upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty, dermal fat grafting to the upper eyelids to improve hollowing, and silicone cheek implants to add support through the mid-face.
At her six-month review, she was delighted with the outcome, and I am very pleased with how naturally everything has settled.
Images shared with the patient’s full consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#FaceAndNeckLift #deepplanefacelift #Blepharoplasty #FacialRejuvenation #paulwilsonaesthetics
A change in volume, while still keeping the result in proportion.
Breast augmentation is about much more than simply choosing a size. Implant width, profile and projection are all considered alongside the patient’s existing breast tissue, chest width and personal preferences.
The aim for this patient was to add volume and upper pole fullness while creating a shape that complemented her frame.
Every patient is different, which is why every surgical plan is individual.
Images shared with patient consent.
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol | The London Welbeck Hospital
☎️ Office: 0117 332 1585
📱 Call or WhatsApp: 07414 163133
✉️ info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#BreastAugmentation #BreastImplants #BreastSurgery #PaulWilsonAesthetics
