Recovery After Abdominoplasty: What to Expect
A comprehensive guide to tummy tuck recovery - from the first week through to full healing, including activity restrictions, compression garments, and scar care.
Read article →Remove excess skin and tighten abdominal muscles for a flatter, more contoured midsection.
2-4 hours
General
Day case
2-4 weeks
6-8 weeks
Permanent
Abdominoplasty, commonly called a "tummy tuck," removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles. It's particularly effective for addressing changes that occur after pregnancy or significant weight loss that diet and exercise alone cannot correct.
Abdominoplasty may be suitable if you have:
Addresses the entire abdomen from the pubic area to the ribcage. The belly button is repositioned, muscles are tightened, and excess skin is removed. The scar runs from hip to hip, hidden below the bikini line.
For patients with concerns limited to the area below the belly button. Shorter scar, no repositioning of the navel, and a quicker recovery. Not suitable for everyone.
For patients who also have excess skin on their flanks or lower back, often after significant weight loss.
Under general anaesthesia, I make an incision along the lower abdomen. The skin is lifted, the abdominal muscles are tightened (if separated), and excess skin and fat are removed. For a full abdominoplasty, a new opening is created for the belly button.
You'll need to walk slightly bent over for the first few days as the tissues stretch. Most patients return to desk work after 2-3 weeks but should avoid strenuous activity for 6-8 weeks. You'll wear a compression garment for several weeks to support healing.
Results are permanent, provided you maintain a stable weight. Pregnancy after abdominoplasty is possible but may stretch the repaired muscles, so I generally recommend waiting until you've completed your family.
No. Liposuction removes fat but doesn't address loose skin or separated muscles. Abdominoplasty addresses skin and muscles, and may include liposuction for additional contouring.
The scar is positioned low, typically hidden by underwear or a bikini. It will fade over 12-18 months, though it never disappears completely.
Yes, pregnancy is possible and safe. However, pregnancy may stretch the repaired muscles and skin, affecting your results. I generally recommend waiting until you've completed your family.
Abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure. While some tissue is removed, the primary goal is contouring and tightening. You should be at or near your target weight before surgery.
Book a confidential consultation to discuss whether abdominoplasty is right for you.