Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to flatten and tighten the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat while also tightening the underlying muscles.

This procedure is often sought by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, which can result in loose abdominal skin and weakened muscles.

Abdominoplasty offers a transformative solution, restoring a smoother, firmer abdominal contour and enhancing overall body proportions. Whether aiming to achieve a more toned appearance or to address functional concerns such as abdominal weakness or discomfort, abdominoplasty can help patients regain confidence in their bodies.

During abdominoplasty surgery

• We will carefully assess the patient's abdominal anatomy and aesthetic goals to determine the most appropriate surgical approach. This will definitely involve making incisions along the lower abdomen to access and remove excess skin and fat, as well as tightening the underlying muscles to create a firmer abdominal wall.

• Depending on the extent of correction needed, we may recommend a full abdominoplasty (excess skin below and above the umbilicus with new belly button formed) or a mini abdominoplasty (excess skin below umbilicus only).

• Fleur de lis abdominoplasty includes a long horizontal and vertical scar and best applies to patients with a lot of skin excess after massive weight loss while a reverse tummy tuck hides the scar under the breast folds and address skin laxity to the upper abdomen.

• The chosen technique will be discussed during the consultation process, ensuring that the patient understands the procedure and has realistic expectations for the outcome.

• After assessing you, we might also advise for liposuction to the flanks and back to create a more defined waistline.

Recovery from abdominoplasty surgery

• This varies from patient to patient, but most individuals can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild pain in the days following the procedure.

• We provide the required pain killers but also what makes a massive difference to your comfort is that during the surgery we block the pain nerves with a long-lasting anaesthetic.

• Patients are usually advised to take it easy and avoid strenuous activities during the initial healing period, wearing a compression garment to support the abdomen and minimize swelling.

• As the swelling subsides and incisions heal, patients will gradually see the transformative results of their abdominoplasty, enjoying a flatter, more toned abdomen and improved body confidence.

Potential Risks and Complications

• Like any surgical procedure, tummy tuck comes with potential risks and complications. These can include infection, bleeding, fluid collection, haematoma, changes in skin sensation.

• Abdominoplasty-specific complications are uncommon and include problematic scars and wound healing, dehiscence of the wound, and rarely skin necrosis. All the above are thoroughly discussed during your consultation.

Long-Term Results

• The long-term results of a tummy tuck can be influenced by factors such as ageing, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy.

• Regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon are recommended to ensure that the healing process is going on smoothly and address concerns.