Weight gain can affect overall body proportions, and fat accumulation around the hips (often called the "saddlebag" area) is one of the most common concerns-especially for women. Ideally, the hip area should remain balanced with the rest of the body. Just as having extremely small hips may not be desired, having disproportionately wide hips is also a concern for many people.
Today, many patients say: "I can't get rid of the fat on my thighs," or "my hips don't get smaller no matter what I do." Although dieting and exercise can help achieve a healthy weight, it is not always possible to eliminate stubborn fat deposits in the hip and upper thigh region. Therefore, some individuals report that even after losing weight, they still cannot achieve the desired contour in the hips and lower body.
In such cases, hip slimming surgery (hip reduction / contouring) may be considered. This procedure aims to create a more harmonious lower-body shape and is generally completed in a short time. One of the reasons it is frequently preferred is that the recovery process is often described as relatively comfortable and manageable.
The hip area is one of the most difficult body regions to slim down through lifestyle changes alone. For this reason, avoiding excessive weight gain-especially from high-calorie diets-is important. However, if weight has already been gained and the hip region remains resistant to change, a tailored approach may be evaluated under the guidance of an experienced plastic surgeon. Learning the details of the procedure can also help patients make a more informed and confident decision.
What Is Hip Slimming Surgery?
First of all, it is important to clarify that hip slimming surgery is not a weight-loss method. Although the procedure involves fat removal, patients are generally advised to complete their weight management process first. This surgery is mainly performed to address localized, stubborn fat in the hip and upper thigh area that remains even after diet and exercise.
The primary goal of the procedure is to reduce the appearance of wide hips, which may be caused by genetic factors or body structure. Excess fat in the hip area can prevent the body from looking balanced and proportionate. Therefore, this surgical approach aims to improve overall body contour-not to replace healthy weight loss.
During the operation, the focus is specifically the hip region. It is not considered a whole-body weight-loss intervention, and only the targeted area is treated as part of a contouring plan.
Who Can Benefit From Hip Reduction Surgery?
Another common question-besides how the operation is performed-is who may be a suitable candidate. Hip reduction is often associated with women, but men can also experience genetically wider hips and may benefit from this procedure when appropriate.
In men, wide hips are more commonly related to body structure. In women, it may occur structurally as well, but can also become more apparent after pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations. When the hip area becomes wider, it can make the buttocks appear larger and the upper thighs thicker, which may lead to difficulties in clothing choices and reduced self-confidence.
Individuals who experience these concerns may be evaluated for hip fat removal procedures such as liposuction-based hip contouring, provided they do not have medical conditions that would prevent surgery or liposuction.
Naturally, pregnancy and breastfeeding are not suitable periods for this operation. Patients are typically advised to wait until after childbirth and completion of breastfeeding. Then, after reaching a stable weight, hip contouring may be planned if the hip area remains disproportionately wide.
When performed at an ideal or near-ideal weight, hip reduction surgery can also support a more refined silhouette-helping the waist appear slimmer and the legs appear longer due to improved proportions.
This procedure is available in Tekirdağ, Turkey, which is conveniently located near Istanbul, making it a practical option for patients travelling for aesthetic treatments in Turkey.
Are the Results Permanent?
Yes-the results of hip slimming surgery are generally long-lasting. Patients do not need to repeat the procedure regularly to maintain the outcome. However, one key point must be emphasized: if significant weight is gained after surgery, fat can accumulate again in the hip region.
This is especially important for individuals who are genetically prone to hip fat storage. For this reason, maintaining a stable and healthy weight is recommended to preserve long-term results.
Hip Slimming Surgery Prices
The cost of hip reduction surgery may vary from person to person. The amount of fat to be removed, whether any excess skin needs to be addressed, and the overall surgical plan can influence pricing. A consultation is necessary for accurate planning-after a physical examination, the most suitable approach can be determined and the estimated cost can be clarified accordingly.
The core of hip reduction surgery is based on removing excess fat from the hip (saddlebag) area. Naturally, many patients who consider this procedure want to know exactly how the operation is performed. In general, the surgery is designed to remove localized fat from the hips and create a slimmer, more balanced lower-body contour.
The process can be summarized as follows:
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Hip reduction surgery is performed under anesthesia.
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The procedure typically involves liposuction, allowing excess fat tissue to be removed from the body.
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In some cases, the surgical plan may also include removal of excess skin through a small incision.
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Once the excess fat is removed, the hips can appear smoother, slimmer, and more proportionate.
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Patients do not feel pain during the operation because the procedure is performed under anesthesia.
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Large incisions are not required for liposuction in this region-most cases can be completed with very small (mini) incisions.
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Through these small entry points, thin tubes called cannulas are inserted under the skin into the fat layer.
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These cannulas are used to gently remove the targeted fat.
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Achieving symmetry is extremely important-therefore, special care is taken to ensure that both sides are contoured evenly.
This type of body contouring surgery is commonly preferred by patients who struggle with stubborn hip fat despite diet and exercise. It can also be an option for individuals traveling for aesthetic procedures in Turkey, including patients searching for treatments near Istanbul-as Tekirdağ is conveniently located close to Istanbul.
Naturally, a recovery period follows the procedure. However, compared with many other aesthetic surgeries, recovery after hip reduction is often considered more manageable and comfortable for most patients. Below are some key points to know:
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After surgery, your doctor will likely recommend wearing a compression garment (corset).
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This garment should be worn for the full duration advised by your surgeon.
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The recommended period is often 1-2 months, but it can vary depending on the patient.
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The reason for compression garment use is to support faster shaping and contouring of the treated area.
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It may also help the tissues settle properly and support the healing of small incision sites.
In addition:
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After hip reduction surgery, patients are usually advised not to sit directly on the buttocks for about two weeks.
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Sitting directly may affect the newly shaped contour in the hip area.
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Instead, it is recommended to lie face down when possible or use special supportive pillows designed for post-operative comfort.
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Showering is generally possible two days after surgery, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
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During showers, lukewarm water is recommended instead of hot water.
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Follow-up visits are important-patients should attend all scheduled controls on the dates advised by the surgeon.
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During the healing period, it is essential to maintain maximum hygiene for the small incision areas.
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Patients should avoid high-heat environments such as saunas and Turkish baths.
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Due to infection risk, it is also commonly recommended to avoid the sea and swimming pools during recovery.
If you would like to learn more about hip slimming surgery or request an appointment, you can contact our clinic. Achieving a hip shape that is more proportionate with your body may be possible with a personalized treatment plan.
