Thigh Lift Melbourne

When considering a thigh lift in Melbourne, patients trust the expertise of Dr. Gary Kode, a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon. A thigh lift offers an option to address excess skin and fat in the upper legs, often following weight loss, pregnancy, or the natural ageing process. Dr. Gary Kode is dedicated to creating personalised surgical plans that aim to achieve balanced, natural-looking proportions tailored to each individual’s needs. His approach ensures that patients are fully informed, comfortable, and supported throughout their surgical journey, offering both surgical expertise and compassionate care.

What is a Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the thighs by removing excess skin and, in some cases, fat deposits. It targets areas where the skin has lost elasticity due to factors such as significant weight changes, genetics, or ageing. Many individuals in Melbourne seek this procedure to refine their body contours when exercise and healthy living alone cannot address skin laxity. Under the careful guidance of Dr. Gary Kode, each procedure is meticulously planned to suit the patient’s unique anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring an outcome that aims to harmonise with the overall body shape.

Types of concerns a thigh lift may address include:

  • Redundant skin folds causing chafing or discomfort: Persistent skin irritation and hygiene issues can occur in the thigh region due to overlapping skin.
  • Uneven or disproportionate thigh contours: Difficulty achieving a smooth silhouette, even with targeted exercise, due to stretched or sagging skin.
  • Difficulty fitting into clothing due to excess skin: Challenges wearing fitted clothing, such as jeans or tailored trousers, comfortably and confidently.
  • Persistent self-consciousness: Some patients seek a thigh lift to feel more comfortable in swimwear or athletic attire, focusing on personal goals rather than societal standards.

Am I a Candidate for Thigh Lift Surgery?

You might consider a thigh lift if you:

  • Experience loose or sagging skin on the inner or outer thighs: Whether after pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing, sagging skin can impact both appearance and mobility.
  • Have achieved and maintained a stable body weight after weight loss: Maintaining a consistent weight helps ensure longer-lasting surgical results.
  • Are in good general health without significant underlying medical conditions: Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or cardiovascular issues can impact healing and surgical candidacy.
  • Do not smoke or are willing to cease smoking prior to and after surgery: Smoking can significantly impair healing, increasing risks of complications.
  • Have realistic expectations about the outcomes and understand the potential for visible scarring: A thigh lift will involve scars, but they are planned and positioned carefully to be as discreet as possible.
  • Desire physical comfort along with aesthetic enhancement: Many patients appreciate the improved physical comfort and ease of movement after excess skin is removed.

An in-depth consultation with Dr. Gary Kode is essential to evaluate your suitability. During this session, Dr. Kode will assess your medical history, physical condition, and personal goals, creating a surgical plan tailored to your needs and preferences.

Dr. Gary Kode’s Personal Approach to Thigh Lift Surgery

Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, is known for his hands-on, meticulous approach—he personally performs all aspects of each surgery without delegating to assistants. This ensures consistency, precision, and a personal commitment to each patient’s outcome.

Thigh lift procedures are conducted in accredited Melbourne hospitals such as Glenferrie Private Hospital and Masada Private Hospital, offering patients a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Kode emphasises a thorough pre-operative consultation, careful surgical planning, and ongoing post-operative care, helping patients to feel confident and well-informed at every stage of their journey.

Patients can expect:

  • A comprehensive consultation to fully understand the procedure, risks, benefits, and realistic outcomes.
  • Detailed surgical planning using tailored techniques to meet the individual’s anatomy and aesthetic goals.
  • Personalised follow-up care to ensure smooth recovery and optimal healing.

Surgical Techniques: Tailored to Your Needs

Each thigh lift procedure is uniquely designed to achieve balanced, proportionate results. The techniques offered by Dr. Gary Kode include:

  • tTransverse (Groin) Inner Thigh Lift: Focuses on the inner thigh area, addressing skin laxity predominantly in the upper inner thigh. Suitable for individuals with minor to moderate skin excess seeking subtle contour refinement.
  • Vertical InnerThigh Lift: Utilises a longer incision along the inner thigh to address significant excess skin, often required following major weight loss. This technique provides more comprehensive reshaping and can dramatically improve overall thigh proportions.
  • Combination with Liposuction: In cases where stubborn fat deposits contribute to thigh shape concerns, liposuction is performed alongside skin removal. This combination enhances definition and supports smoother transitions between the thigh and adjacent areas.

During surgery, Dr. Gary Kode uses advanced suturing techniques aimed at minimising tension on the incision sites, supporting improved healing and scar quality. Where appropriate, drains may be used temporarily to reduce fluid build-up and aid in quicker recovery.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery is an essential phase of your surgical journey and plays a critical role in the overall outcome. With Dr. Gary Kode’s personalised post-operative care in Melbourne, patients can expect:

  • Hospital Stay: Typically, patients remain overnight for close monitoring of early recovery, ensuring any initial discomfort or fluid drainage is managed safely.
  • Support Garments: Specialised garments are worn continuously for the first month to stabilise tissues, minimise swelling, and support optimal contouring. After the initial month, daytime-only wear is recommended for another two months to maintain support during the later stages of healing.
  • Gradual Resumption of Activity: Gentle walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote healthy blood circulation and prevent complications like blood clots. High-impact activities, running, and gym workouts should be avoided for at least six weeks or until cleared by Dr. Kode.
  • Wound Care: Specific instructions are provided for dressing changes, hygiene, and early scar care. Patients are advised to monitor for any signs of infection or wound issues and to attend all scheduled follow-up visits.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Gary Kode ensure that healing progresses appropriately. Adjustments to aftercare, if needed, are discussed at these visits.

Potential Risks and Important Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, a thigh lift carries potential risks and considerations. These may include:

  • Infection: Managed through careful surgical technique and, when necessary, preventive antibiotics.
  • Scarring: Scars are inevitable but are positioned strategically for discretion. Scar management strategies, including Hypafix taping, may be recommended.
  • Seroma (fluid accumulation): Drains are often used to help prevent this, and if fluid builds up post-surgery, it can be treated effectively.
  • Changes in Skin Sensation: Some patients experience temporary numbness or altered sensation around the incision sites, which usually improves over time.
  • Asymmetry: Minor asymmetry can occur as a result of natural variations in healing and body structure.
  • Wound Healing Issues: Delayed healing or minor wound separation can occasionally occur, particularly in patients with higher BMI or those who smoke.

During the consultation process, Dr. Gary Kode ensures that all potential risks are thoroughly discussed. He prioritises patient safety and employs meticulous surgical methods to minimise risks wherever possible.

FAQs About Thigh Lift Surgery

Why Choose Dr. Gary Kode for Your Thigh Lift in Melbourne?

Choosing the right surgeon for your body contouring journey is crucial. Dr. Gary Kode offers:

  • Extensive Experience: With decades of surgical expertise focused on aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Kode brings a depth of knowledge and refined technical skills to each procedure.
  • Personalised Care: Each patient’s treatment plan is individually developed. No assistants perform the surgery; Dr. Kode is personally responsible for every surgical step.
  • Accredited Facilities: Surgeries are performed in fully accredited Melbourne private hospitals, where patient safety, comfort, and privacy are paramount.
  • Attention to Detail: From initial consultations to surgical execution and post-operative care, Dr. Kode ensures every detail is carefully managed to achieve harmonious and proportionate outcomes.
  • Patient Education and Support: Dr. Kode believes that informed patients make empowered decisions. He dedicates time to ensuring patients understand all aspects of their care before proceeding.

Choosing Dr. Gary Kode, a highly experienced Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, means entrusting your care to a compassionate, highly skilled professional who prioritises your wellbeing.

Next Steps: Booking Your Consultation

If you are considering a thigh lift and would like to explore your options with a trusted Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gary Kode at his Melbourne practice.

During your initial appointment, Dr. Kode will:

  • Perform a thorough medical and anatomical assessment to determine the best surgical approach.
  • Discuss your goals, expectations, and suitability for surgery, providing personalised insights based on your individual situation.
  • Explain the available surgical techniques, including their benefits and considerations.
  • Outline the potential risks, expected recovery timeline, and aftercare instructions to help you make an informed decision.

Taking the first step towards refined body contours can be a rewarding journey. Dr. Kode and his dedicated team are committed to guiding you with expert care, personalised attention, and a clear, supportive communication style.

Further Reading