Table of contents

• What Is Thigh Lift?
• Best Clinics in Korea for Thigh Lift
• Getting a Thigh Lift in Korea
• Cost of Thigh Lift in Korea
• Alternatives to Thigh Lift
• Conclusion

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

---

Are you self-conscious about sagging or excess skin on your thighs that resists exercise and diet? Discover why South Korea has become a top destination for thigh lifts, offering advanced techniques and expert surgeons to reshape and rejuvenate your body contours. This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of the procedure, enticing medical advancements in Korea, candidate suitability, costs, and alternative options, empowering you to make an informed decision on your aesthetic journey.

What Is Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift, also known as a thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at reshaping and enhancing the contour of the thighs. This procedure is primarily sought by individuals who wish to achieve firmer and more youthful looking thighs, usually after significant weight loss, aging, or when exercise and diet have not yielded the desired improvements. A thigh lift can help eliminate excess skin and fat, thereby reducing sagging and improving the overall tone of the thighs.

Procedure Details

The thigh lift procedure typically involves several steps, meticulously carried out by a qualified plastic surgeon. Initially, the patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety throughout the surgery. The surgeon then makes strategic incisions, often placed in the groin area or along the inner thigh, to minimize visible scarring.

Several types of thigh lift techniques can be utilized, depending on the specific needs and goals of the patient:

1. Inner Thigh Lift: This technique targets the inner thigh and is often chosen by patients with loose, flabby skin or excess fat in this region. The incision is made from the groin down toward the knee, allowing the surgeon to tighten and remove sagging skin as well as perform liposuction if necessary.

2. Outer Thigh Lift: Also known as a lateral thigh lift, this technique focuses on the outer areas of the thighs. Incisions typically extend from the groin around the hip, allowing for significant lifting of the skin over a larger area of the thigh. The outer thigh lift can also help improve the appearance of the buttocks and hips.

3. Vertical Thigh Lift: This method involves a vertical incision extending down the leg. It is suited for patients requiring extensive correction. Although this approach may result in more visible scarring, it can significantly improve severe skin laxity.

Recovery Process

Post-surgery, patients are closely monitored in a recovery area to ensure a smooth initial healing process. Compression garments are often applied to minimize swelling and support the new contours of the thighs. Bruising, swelling, and discomfort are common, but these symptoms generally subside within a few weeks.

Patients are advised to follow specific aftercare instructions provided by their surgeon, which include wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. It's important to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks, and a gradual return to normal activities is typically recommended.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with a thigh lift. These can include scarring, infection, changes in skin sensation, and asymmetry. Prior to the surgery, a thorough consultation with the surgeon is essential to discuss all potential outcomes and ensure that the patient has realistic expectations.

Choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is critical to minimize risks and achieve optimal results. Patients should ensure their chosen surgeon is board-certified and has a proven track record in performing thigh lift procedures successfully.

Best Clinics in Korea for Thigh Lift

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for thigh lift:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Lydian Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic in Cheongdam, Gangnam, is a boutique center renowned for world-class liposuction and body sculpting, led by Dr. An Kyung Chun—one of Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, and listed among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine. With over two decades focused on body contouring and a VIP and celebrity clientele, the clinic delivers thigh lift planning and execution with meticulous precision. By pairing anatomy-based design with advanced high-definition liposuction and a rigorous aftercare system, Lydian offers refined thigh contouring, proportional leg lines, and carefully managed scarring under the direct care of a single, highly credentialed specialist.	- Elite surgical leadership: Dr. An’s accolades include Korea’s Top 18 in aesthetic plastic surgery, directorship of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, and selection among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine. - Proven authority in liposuction: Multiple exclusive selections in liposuction and responsibility for domestic physician training in high-definition body sculpting and liposuction devices. - Anatomy-based design: Customized thigh lift plans that balance skin laxity correction, fat distribution, and leg proportions for natural, harmonious contours. - 5D liposculpture integration: High-definition fat sculpting around the inner and outer thighs to enhance lift results, improve definition, and help reduce surface irregularities. - Continuous tech investment: No outdated equipment; the clinic prioritizes the newest devices from Korea and abroad to support safety, precision, and efficiency. - 4-step systematic aftercare: Targeted protocols for swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring to optimize outcomes. - Boutique, single-specialist care: Personalized attention from consultation through recovery, ensuring consistency and accountability at every step. - Scar-conscious approach: Techniques designed to minimize and strategically conceal incisions while focusing on smooth, even thigh contours. - Minimally invasive philosophy: Advanced methods that support efficient recovery without routine hospitalization, aligning comfort with high-quality results. - Trusted destination in Seoul: Situated in Cheongdam, Gangnam, the clinic is recognized for premium service and excellence in body contouring.
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website	Situated in the heart of Garosu-gil, Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is a four-floor, research-driven center of excellence that guides patients seamlessly from consultation through surgery and post-operative skincare. Led by internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons—Director Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, an award-winning researcher in 3D implants and a leading expert in rhinoplasty and facial contouring; and Dr. Lee, a breast augmentation specialist with top-university hospital experience—the clinic pairs academic rigor with meticulous, individualized care. Their active contributions to journals, books, and global symposiums, along with a philosophy that balances function and beauty, underpin superior safety standards and refined outcomes. While renowned for facial procedures, the team applies the same precision and evidence-based approach to body contouring, making THE PLUS a standout choice for patients seeking a thigh lift in Korea.	- Board-certified leadership with global credentials: Dr. Jeong (President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons), Dr. Kim (awarded for 3D implant research; author and educator), and Dr. Lee (Seoul National University Hospital-trained) bring elite expertise to surgical planning and execution. - Research and education at the core: Surgeons publish, present, and lead annual training sessions and webinars, ensuring that techniques for lower-body contouring, including thigh lift, reflect the latest evidence and best practices. - Safety-first, fully integrated facility: A dedicated four-floor system covers pre-op evaluation, surgery, and post-operative skincare, supported by a team with over a decade of experience and robust, standardized protocols. - Aesthetic philosophy that prioritizes harmony and function: Dr. Kim’s emphasis on natural balance and Dr. Jeong’s function-meets-beauty ethos translate into thigh lift plans tailored to proportion, mobility, and long-term comfort. - Comprehensive body-contouring capability: In-house liposuction and skin-quality treatments provide adjunctive options commonly paired with thigh lift to refine contour and support smooth recovery. - Consistent, personalized communication: Clear consultations and customized operative plans foster realistic expectations and high satisfaction throughout the thigh lift journey. - Internationally engaged, future-focused: Frequent participation in domestic and global symposiums, live surgeries, and society activities (including ASPS) keeps the team at the forefront of technique and safety advancements.
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is a trusted destination in Korea for individuals seeking refined thigh contouring and lift procedures grounded in sincerity, precision, and individualized care. Led by a team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon, the clinic tailors each treatment plan to a patient’s unique anatomy and goals, combining advanced body-contouring methods with meticulous surgical technique. From targeted fat reduction with liposuction to strategic fat grafting and skin-tightening approaches, every step is designed to enhance thigh shape, smoothness, and proportion within the context of your overall silhouette. Beyond the operating room, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic provides a comprehensive journey of transformation guided by expertise and empathy. Patients benefit from an integrated care system that can include pre- and post-procedure skincare, laser-based lifting, and scar-focused management, ensuring support at every stage. With cutting-edge techniques, a dedication to safety and aesthetics, and a deeply personalized approach, the clinic delivers thoughtful, natural-looking thigh rejuvenation for lasting confidence.	- Pre- and post-procedure skincare. - Laser-based lifting. - Scar-focused management. - Targeted fat reduction with liposuction. - Strategic fat grafting and skin-tightening approaches. - Meticulous surgical technique. - Integrated care system that can include pre- and post-procedure skincare, laser-based lifting, and scar-focused management.

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic

Lydian Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic in Cheongdam, Gangnam, is a boutique center renowned for world-class liposuction and body sculpting, led by Dr. An Kyung Chun—one of Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, and listed among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine. With over two decades focused on body contouring and a VIP and celebrity clientele, the clinic delivers thigh lift planning and execution with meticulous precision. By pairing anatomy-based design with advanced high-definition liposuction and a rigorous aftercare system, Lydian offers refined thigh contouring, proportional leg lines, and carefully managed scarring under the direct care of a single, highly credentialed specialist.

Why Lydian is best-in-class for Thigh Lift

• Elite surgical leadership: Dr. An’s accolades include Korea’s Top 18 in aesthetic plastic surgery, directorship of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, and selection among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine.
• Proven authority in liposuction: Multiple exclusive selections in liposuction and responsibility for domestic physician training in high-definition body sculpting and liposuction devices.
• Anatomy-based design: Customized thigh lift plans that balance skin laxity correction, fat distribution, and leg proportions for natural, harmonious contours.
• 5D liposculpture integration: High-definition fat sculpting around the inner and outer thighs to enhance lift results, improve definition, and help reduce surface irregularities.
• Continuous tech investment: No outdated equipment; the clinic prioritizes the newest devices from Korea and abroad to support safety, precision, and efficiency.
• 4-step systematic aftercare: Targeted protocols for swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring to optimize outcomes.
• Boutique, single-specialist care: Personalized attention from consultation through recovery, ensuring consistency and accountability at every step.
• Scar-conscious approach: Techniques designed to minimize and strategically conceal incisions while focusing on smooth, even thigh contours.
• Minimally invasive philosophy: Advanced methods that support efficient recovery without routine hospitalization, aligning comfort with high-quality results.
• Trusted destination in Seoul: Situated in Cheongdam, Gangnam, the clinic is recognized for premium service and excellence in body contouring.

You can check out their website here: Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Situated in the heart of Garosu-gil, Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is a four-floor, research-driven center of excellence that guides patients seamlessly from consultation through surgery and post-operative skincare. Led by internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons—Director Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, an award-winning researcher in 3D implants and a leading expert in rhinoplasty and facial contouring; and Dr. Lee, a breast augmentation specialist with top-university hospital experience—the clinic pairs academic rigor with meticulous, individualized care. Their active contributions to journals, books, and global symposiums, along with a philosophy that balances function and beauty, underpin superior safety standards and refined outcomes. While renowned for facial procedures, the team applies the same precision and evidence-based approach to body contouring, making THE PLUS a standout choice for patients seeking a thigh lift in Korea.

Why THE PLUS stands out for Thigh Lift

• Board-certified leadership with global credentials: Dr. Jeong (President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons), Dr. Kim (awarded for 3D implant research; author and educator), and Dr. Lee (Seoul National University Hospital-trained) bring elite expertise to surgical planning and execution.
• Research and education at the core: Surgeons publish, present, and lead annual training sessions and webinars, ensuring that techniques for lower-body contouring, including thigh lift, reflect the latest evidence and best practices.
• Safety-first, fully integrated facility: A dedicated four-floor system covers pre-op evaluation, surgery, and post-operative skincare, supported by a team with over a decade of experience and robust, standardized protocols.
• Aesthetic philosophy that prioritizes harmony and function: Dr. Kim’s emphasis on natural balance and Dr. Jeong’s function-meets-beauty ethos translate into thigh lift plans tailored to proportion, mobility, and long-term comfort.
• Comprehensive body-contouring capability: In-house liposuction and skin-quality treatments provide adjunctive options commonly paired with thigh lift to refine contour and support smooth recovery.
• Consistent, personalized communication: Clear consultations and customized operative plans foster realistic expectations and high satisfaction throughout the thigh lift journey.
• Internationally engaged, future-focused: Frequent participation in domestic and global symposiums, live surgeries, and society activities (including ASPS) keeps the team at the forefront of technique and safety advancements.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is a trusted destination in Korea for individuals seeking refined thigh contouring and lift procedures grounded in sincerity, precision, and individualized care. Led by a team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon, the clinic tailors each treatment plan to a patient’s unique anatomy and goals, combining advanced body-contouring methods with meticulous surgical technique. From targeted fat reduction with liposuction to strategic fat grafting and skin-tightening approaches, every step is designed to enhance thigh shape, smoothness, and proportion within the context of your overall silhouette.

Beyond the operating room, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic provides a comprehensive journey of transformation guided by expertise and empathy. Patients benefit from an integrated care system that can include pre- and post-procedure skincare, laser-based lifting, and scar-focused management, ensuring support at every stage. With cutting-edge techniques, a dedication to safety and aesthetics, and a deeply personalized approach, the clinic delivers thoughtful, natural-looking thigh rejuvenation for lasting confidence.

Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Getting a Thigh Lift in Korea

South Korea is a globally recognized hub for advanced medical tourism, and thigh lifts are no exception. Korean clinics often boast cutting-edge technology and highly skilled surgeons, attracting patients from around the world seeking this procedure. A thigh lift, also known as a thighplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the contour and appearance of the inner and/or outer thighs. Excess skin and fat are removed, resulting in a more toned and sculpted appearance. The procedure is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, have naturally loose skin, or are struggling with excess fat deposits in their thighs that are resistant to diet and exercise.

There are several different types of thigh lifts, tailored to individual needs and the extent of correction required. These include:

• Inner Thigh Lift: This focuses on the inner thigh area, addressing excess skin and fat that often causes chafing and discomfort. The incision is typically made in the groin area, often hidden within the natural creases of the body.

• Outer Thigh Lift: This targets the outer thigh, addressing sagging skin and fat. The incision is often placed along the outer thigh, and may extend to the buttock area depending on the extent of the correction needed.

• Circumferential Thigh Lift: This is a more extensive procedure, addressing both the inner and outer thighs in a single operation. It typically involves longer incisions and a more significant recovery period.

The Procedure: Before the surgery, patients undergo a thorough consultation with the surgeon. This involves a physical examination, a review of the patient's medical history, and a discussion of their goals and expectations. The surgeon will determine the appropriate type of thigh lift and explain the procedure in detail.

The surgery itself is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes incisions in the designated areas, removes excess skin and fat, and then reshapes and tightens the underlying tissues. Advanced techniques, such as liposuction, may be incorporated to further refine the contours. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and dressings are applied.

Post-Operative Care: Recovery from a thigh lift varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days and weeks following the surgery. Compression garments are usually worn to minimize swelling and support the healing process. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort. Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks to allow for proper healing. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are crucial to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Choosing a Clinic in Korea: When selecting a clinic for a thigh lift in Korea, it’s important to thoroughly research potential surgeons and facilities. Look for board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in thighplasty. Check online reviews and testimonials, and consider the clinic's accreditation and safety standards. It's also wise to communicate directly with the clinic to discuss your specific needs and ensure a comfortable and transparent experience. Be aware of the total cost, including fees for surgery, anesthesia, post-operative care, and any additional expenses.

Who is Thigh Lift for?

• Individuals with excess skin and fat on the inner and/or outer thighs: A thigh lift is primarily designed to address significant amounts of loose skin and fat that don't respond well to diet and exercise. This often results in a "saddlebag" appearance or feeling of heaviness in the thighs.

• Patients who have experienced significant weight loss: After massive weight loss, significant excess skin can remain on the thighs, impacting both appearance and self-confidence. A thigh lift can help restore a more toned and contoured silhouette.

• Those with mild to moderate thigh laxity: While a thigh lift is most effective for substantial skin laxity, it can also improve the appearance of milder cases, offering a more defined and lifted appearance.

• Individuals with good overall health: As with any surgical procedure, good general health is essential. Candidates should be non-smokers and have realistic expectations about the results. Your surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment to determine your suitability.

• Patients seeking improvement in body contouring: A thigh lift is a body contouring procedure; it's about improving the overall shape and definition of the thighs, not just addressing weight loss. It's a good choice for people who are relatively close to their ideal weight but have areas of skin laxity.

• People who are comfortable with the recovery process: Thigh lift surgery involves a recovery period, and potential side effects should be considered. Patients should be prepared for the commitment required for optimal healing.

Cost of Thigh Lift in Korea

When considering a thigh lift, understanding the cost differences across various countries can help patients make informed decisions. South Korea is renowned for its advanced cosmetic surgery industry, and the costs of procedures there often attract international patients. Here's a comparison of thigh lift costs between South Korea and other countries, including the USA.

Thigh Lift Costs in Korea

In South Korea, the cost of a thigh lift typically ranges from approximately $3,000 to $8,000. This range reflects the variance in clinic reputation, surgeon expertise, and the complexity of the procedure. South Korea's medical tourism is bolstered by its competitive prices paired with high-quality services, making it a popular destination for cosmetic surgery.

Thigh Lift Costs in the USA

In comparison, the cost of a thigh lift in the United States is generally higher. Patients can expect to pay between $5,000 and $15,000. These prices vary based on factors such as geographic location, the surgeon's credentials, and the facility's prestige. The higher price range in the U.S. often encompasses additional costs like anesthesia, facility fees, and post-operative care.

Thigh Lift Costs in Other Countries

Globally, the cost of a thigh lift can differ significantly:

• United Kingdom: The procedure generally ranges from £5,000 to £8,000 ($6,800 to $10,800 USD). Similar to the U.S., these prices include various ancillary costs associated with surgery.
• Australia: In Australia, prices are generally around AUD 8,000 to AUD 15,000 ($5,000 to $10,000 USD), varying by clinic and city.
• Thailand: Known for cost-effective medical procedures, thigh lifts in Thailand can range from $2,000 to $6,000, attracting many international patients seeking more affordable options.
• Brazil: Prices in Brazil typically fall between $2,500 and $5,000, making it competitive in the medical tourism market.

Factors Influencing Cost Variations

Several factors contribute to the differences in costs:

1. Surgeon Expertise: Highly experienced and renowned surgeons may charge more due to their expertise and success rates.
2. Clinic Location: Clinics located in major cities or affluent areas often have higher fees.
3. Procedure Complexity: The extent of surgery required can affect pricing, especially if additional contouring or liposuction is involved.
4. Hospital Stay: Depending on post-operative care needs, longer hospital stays can increase costs.
5. Post-Operative Care: Follow-up appointments, medications, and compression garments may also impact the total expense.

Considering these factors and the favorable cost of thigh lifts in South Korea, many patients weigh both the financial and qualitative aspects when choosing a location for their surgery.

Alternatives to Thigh Lift

While a thigh lift can be an effective solution for excess skin and fat on the thighs, it's a significant procedure with a recovery period. Several less invasive alternatives can achieve similar results, depending on individual needs and goals. Consider these options before committing to surgery:

1. Liposuction: Liposuction targets fat deposits specifically. It's a minimally invasive procedure that uses suction to remove excess fat from the thighs, improving contour and definition. Liposuction is a good option for individuals with good skin elasticity who primarily want to address localized fat accumulation, rather than significant skin laxity. It's important to note that liposuction won't address sagging skin; therefore, it is not suitable for everyone seeking thigh contouring.

2. Non-Invasive Body Contouring: Several non-invasive technologies offer fat reduction and skin tightening without surgery. These include CoolSculpting (cryolipolysis), which freezes and eliminates fat cells, and radiofrequency treatments like Exilis or Thermage, which stimulate collagen production for improved skin firmness. These methods are ideal for individuals with mild to moderate fat and skin laxity seeking a less dramatic and less invasive approach to thigh contouring. Results are gradual and may require multiple sessions for optimal improvement.

3. Exercise and Diet: A healthy lifestyle that incorporates regular exercise and a balanced diet can significantly improve the appearance of the thighs. Targeted exercises that strengthen and tone the thigh muscles, combined with a calorie-controlled diet, can contribute to fat loss and a more defined silhouette. This is a slower, long-term approach requiring commitment and consistency, and it might not be suitable for individuals with significant excess skin. However, it's a crucial element of maintaining results after any thigh contouring procedure, surgical or otherwise.

Conclusion

In summary, a thigh lift is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the thighs, resulting in a more toned and contoured appearance. Korea offers a range of experienced surgeons and advanced medical facilities making it a popular destination for this procedure. Ideal candidates are generally healthy individuals with significant excess skin and fat in the thigh area, though alternatives such as liposuction or exercise may be more suitable for some. While the cost of a thigh lift in Korea can vary, it's important to carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks against the financial investment and explore alternative options before making a decision.