Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery)

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck surgery" corrects laxity of skin and muscles that occurs with pregnancy and ageing by removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. Liposuction of the hips and flanks is often performed at the same time. Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery, can dramatically reduce the appearance of the abdomen, producing a flat contour, which can enhance your appearance and self-confidence.

Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery until after their weight is stable, and the surgery is best left until after pregnancies have finished, as weight loss and pregnancy after abdominoplasty can compromise the result by producing more loose skin.

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery, is performed under a general anaesthetic and takes 2-3 hours, with most patients staying in hospital for 3-4 days.
Depending on the amount of loose skin and fat to be removed, an incision is either made above the pubic hairline alone (mini-abdominoplasty), or from hip to hip (full abdominoplasty or tummy tuck). In a mini-abdominoplasty the umbilicus can be moved a short distance without a scar, but in a full abdominoplasty or tummy tuck surgery there is also a scar around the umbilicus. The skin and fat between the pubic hair and the umbilicus is removed, and the muscles of the abdominal wall tightened, and the skin closed.

After abdominoplasty or tummy tuck surgery you need to wear a compression garment for a few weeks, and avoid heavy activities and sport for 6 weeks. Most people return to normal everyday activities and work after 3-4 weeks. The scars from surgery gradually fade and lighten in colour, although this may take a full year, with the scars usually not being visible in underwear or a swimming costume.

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery, is an operation which firms and contours the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat as well as tightening the abdominal wall muscles. Abdominoplasty will improve your self-confidence and often gives you an increased willingness to exercise.