Surgical Treatment
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Reshape and firm the abdomen by removing excess skin and repairing stretched muscles after weight loss or pregnancy
At a glance
- Anaesthetic
- General anaesthetic
- Setting
- Hospital; one to two-night stay
- Procedure time
- Discussed at consultation (varies with procedure type)
- Recovery
- Gradual return to activity as guided by your surgeon; full results develop over several months
Overview
Reshape and firm the abdomen by removing excess skin and repairing stretched muscles after weight loss or pregnancy
An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, reshapes the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat from the lower belly and tightening separated or stretched abdominal muscles. It is a popular procedure for people who have lost a significant amount of weight, those with excess skin following pregnancy, or anyone with a persistent abdominal bulge and loss of waistline definition that has not responded to exercise.
Our surgeon offers several variations of the procedure, from a mini-abdominoplasty for more limited concerns to a full, extended or lipo-abdominoplasty for more comprehensive recontouring. The right option depends on the extent of excess skin, the degree of muscle separation and your individual goals, all of which are assessed in detail at your consultation.
The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic and typically requires a one or two-night stay in hospital. While results are visible immediately, the abdomen continues to improve as healing progresses over the following weeks and months.
Benefits
Why patients choose this treatment
- Removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen for a flatter, smoother contour
- Tightens separated or stretched abdominal muscles (diastasis)
- Restores waistline definition lost through weight change or pregnancy
- Several procedure options tailored to the extent of correction needed
- Can be combined with liposuction for a more comprehensive body contour result
- Lasting results when a healthy, stable weight is maintained
Is it right for me?
Abdominoplasty suits adults with excess abdominal skin, loss of waistline definition or separated abdominal muscles following significant weight loss, bariatric surgery or pregnancy, who would like a lasting improvement to their abdominal contour.
What to expect
Your treatment journey
- 1
Consultation
Your surgeon assesses your abdomen, discusses your goals and recommends the most appropriate type of abdominoplasty, from a mini procedure to a full or extended approach, based on your individual needs.
- 2
Surgery
The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic. Excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen, separated muscles are repaired and the remaining skin is smoothed and sutured to create a flatter, firmer contour.
- 3
Recovery and follow-up
A one to two-night hospital stay is typical. Activity is gradually increased in line with your surgeon's guidance, with results continuing to improve as healing progresses over several months. We will see you at regular follow-up appointments throughout.
Aftercare
Follow the detailed aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon carefully, including wearing any recommended compression garment to support healing. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting in the weeks following surgery, and resume exercise only when your surgeon confirms it is safe to do so. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stable weight after your procedure is important for preserving the result long term.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What types of abdominoplasty are available?
Our surgeon offers several options, including mini-abdominoplasty, standard abdominoplasty, lipo-abdominoplasty, extended abdominoplasty, lipo-abdominoplasty with 360-degree liposuction, Fleur de Lis abdominoplasty and lower body lift. The right approach depends on the degree of excess skin, muscle separation and your specific goals, all assessed at consultation.
Will there be a visible scar?
A tummy tuck does leave a scar along the lower abdomen, positioned to be hidden by underwear or swimwear. The length and position depend on the procedure type. Your surgeon will explain exactly what to expect for your chosen approach.
Is an abdominoplasty different from liposuction?
Yes. Liposuction removes fat but does not address excess skin or muscle separation. An abdominoplasty removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles, and can be combined with liposuction where fat reduction is also needed.
Is an abdominoplasty suitable after bariatric surgery?
Yes. It is a common procedure following significant weight loss from bariatric surgery, where excess skin on the abdomen has not retracted. Your surgeon will assess your general health and weight stability at the consultation.
How long is the recovery?
A one to two-night hospital stay is typical. You will need to take a period of rest from work and strenuous activity, with a gradual return as guided by your surgeon. The abdomen continues to improve over several months as swelling resolves and healing completes.
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
Pricing depends on the procedure type and what is agreed for you and is confirmed in writing at your consultation, with no obligation to proceed.
Considering Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Book a consultation with our specialist team to discuss whether this treatment is right for you.
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