Abdominoplasty

• Procedure name: Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Anaesthetic: General
• Hospital stay: 1–2 nights
• Recovery time: 4–6 weeks
• Final results: Seen at 6 months
• Scarring: Hip-to-hip, may include vertical scar (fleur-de-lis type)
• Best for: Loose abdominal skin, post-pregnancy, or post-weight loss
• Optional add-ons: Liposuction, muscle tightening
• Consultation: Free and no obligation

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and reshape the abdomen, particularly following weight loss or pregnancy. It can also involve tightening the underlying muscles and refining the waistline through liposuction. Recovery typically takes 4–6 weeks, with final results visible after several months.

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is one of the most significant cosmetic procedures offered. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with loose or overhanging skin on the abdomen — often after pregnancy or substantial weight loss.

This procedure restores a smoother, firmer abdominal contour, helping patients feel more comfortable in clothing and more confident overall.

A full abdominoplasty involves:

• Lifting the skin of the abdomen
• Removing the excess lower abdominal skin
• Repositioning the belly button
• Optional tightening of abdominal muscles (diastasis repair)
• Optional liposuction for contouring

In some cases — especially following massive weight loss — a fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty may be recommended. This adds a vertical incision to remove skin from the central abdomen for more comprehensive reshaping.

All procedures are tailored to the individual, and refinements like liposuction are included as needed to achieve optimal results.

There are three primary approaches:

1. Full Abdominoplasty: Ideal for significant excess skin and muscle laxity.
2. Mini Abdominoplasty: Targets the lower abdomen below the navel. Less invasive with a shorter scar.
3. Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty: Used in cases of extreme weight loss. Involves both horizontal and vertical skin removal for maximum tightening.

Most patients are very satisfied with their outcome, though it’s important to have realistic expectations. The goal is improvement, not perfection. Minor asymmetries or subtle contour irregularities are possible and normal.

Common post-operative issues may include:

• Seroma (fluid under the skin)
• Scar migration or contour irregularities ("dog ears")
• Temporary numbness in the lower abdomen
• Slight asymmetry or unevenness
• Wound healing delays (more common in smokers)

Your consultation will include a detailed discussion of these risks and how they are managed.

• Hospital stay: 1–2 nights
• Initial recovery: Up to 6 weeks
• Corset support: Worn for 4 weeks to reduce swelling
• Return to light activity: 2–3 weeks
• Final results: Visible after 6 months

You may feel stooped forward for the first couple of weeks due to skin tightness. We’ll guide you on gentle movement, wound care, and gradual return to normal activity.

Abdominoplasty is most suitable if:

• You have loose or hanging abdominal skin
• You've completed your family and do not plan further pregnancies
• You’re at a stable weight
• You’re in good general health and don’t smoke