Thigh Lift in Istanbul
A thigh lift removes loose skin and fat from the inner thighs to create a firmer and smoother leg contour. Dr. Semih Yıldız plans the incision and the amount of skin removal around your body shape.
AT A GLANCE
Anaesthesia: General
Operation time: 2–3 hours
Hospital stay: 1 night
Stay in Istanbul: About 10 days
Back to work: 2 weeks
Final result: 6–12 months
What is a thigh lift?
A thigh lift, or thighplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the inner thighs. It is often chosen after major weight loss or with ageing, when loose skin causes chafing or cannot be improved with exercise.
Liposuction of the inner thigh is included to refine the contour. The trade-off is a scar in the groin and, in some techniques, along the inner thigh.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults in good general health with a stable weight
- People with loose skin on the inner thighs after weight loss or with ageing
- Patients troubled by skin chafing between the thighs
- Anyone with realistic expectations who can stop smoking before and after surgery
If the thighs have mainly fat with good skin elasticity, liposuction alone may be enough, and this is decided at your examination.
Thigh lift techniques
The technique depends on how much loose skin there is and how far down the thigh it extends.
Medial thigh lift
Loose skin of the upper inner thigh is removed through an incision hidden in the groin crease.
Vertical thigh lift
For more extensive loose skin, a scar along the inner thigh allows skin to be removed down towards the knee.
Thigh liposuction
Liposuction refines the inner thigh contour and is included with the thigh lift.
International Certificates
Our international certificates and memberships that validate our quality and expertise.
How the operation is performed
- Planning: your photos, medical history and goals are reviewed and the technique is agreed before the day of surgery.
- Marking: the amount of skin to be removed is marked while you are standing.
- Anaesthesia: the operation is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes 2–3 hours.
- Contouring: liposuction refines the thighs and the excess skin is removed.
- Closing: the incisions are closed in layers and a compression garment is fitted.
- Aftercare: most patients stay one night in hospital for monitoring before moving to their hotel.
Recovery timeline
First 2–3 days: Swelling and tightness are strongest. Gentle walking starts early; discomfort is usually controlled with simple painkillers.
Around day 10: Wound checks are completed and most patients are cleared to fly home.
Week 2: Most patients return to desk work and light daily activities.
Weeks 4–6: The compression garment is worn for about 4–6 weeks, and sport resumes gradually.
Month 3: Most of the swelling has settled and the smoother thigh contour is clearly visible.
Months 6–12: The final result appears as the scars mature and fade.
How to prepare
- Keep your weight stable in the months before surgery.
- Stop smoking and nicotine products at least 4 weeks before and after surgery.
- Tell us about all medicines and supplements; blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil and some herbal products may need to be paused.
- Send clear front and back photos of your thighs for the online assessment.
- Plan about 10 days in Istanbul and 2 weeks away from work.
Risks and possible complications
Every operation carries risk. Possible complications of a thigh lift include:
- Bleeding, infection or fluid collection
- Delayed wound healing
- Visible, widened scars or scar migration
- Changes in skin sensation
- Asymmetry or contour irregularity
- Prolonged swelling of the legs
- Blood clots
- The need for revision surgery
Benefits, limitations and alternatives are discussed in detail during your consultation and informed consent.
Your thigh lift journey in Istanbul
Before you travel
Share your photos and medical history for an online consultation. You receive a personalised plan and a written quotation before booking.
Surgery day
After pre-operative tests and a face-to-face consultation with Dr. Semih Yıldız, the incision lines are marked and the operation takes place in hospital.
Recovery in Istanbul
You recover at your hotel and return for check-ups. Most patients are cleared to fly home about 10 days after surgery.
Back home
Follow-up continues remotely through photos and video calls, so your progress is monitored after you return home.
Thigh lift cost in Istanbul
Thigh lift prices in Turkey start from €2,470, including liposuction of the inner thighs. The price depends on the extent of the operation, combined procedures and the length of your hospital stay. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment. You receive a written quotation with clear package details.
The surgery price includes hospital fees, anaesthesia, implants where required for the procedure, follow-up checks, medications and any required compression garments. Hotel accommodation and transfers are not included in the prices shown but can be arranged at an additional cost as part of a complete package.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a thigh lift in Istanbul cost?
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In Turkey, thigh lift prices start from €2,470, including liposuction of the inner thighs. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment.
Thigh lift or thigh liposuction: which do I need?
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Liposuction removes fat when the skin is still firm. A thigh lift also removes loose skin. Examination shows which suits you.
Where is the thigh lift scar?
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Depending on the technique, the scar is hidden in the groin crease or also runs along the inner thigh. It fades over 12 months.
How long should I stay in Istanbul?
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Most international patients stay about 10 days, so the wounds can be checked before the flight home.
When can I go back to work?
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Most people return to desk work after about 2 weeks. Physical work usually needs about 6 weeks.
How long do I need to wear a compression garment?
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A compression garment is usually worn for about 4–6 weeks to control swelling and support healing.
Can a thigh lift be combined with other surgery?
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Yes, it is often combined with other body contouring procedures after weight loss. Combining procedures is decided after assessment.
Is the result permanent?
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The removed skin does not come back, but ageing and weight changes continue to affect the thighs. A stable weight helps preserve the result.
This page provides general information and does not replace a medical examination.
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