Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
We remove excess abdominal skin after pregnancy or weight loss and repair separated abdominal muscles.
- Duration
- 2–4 hours
- Anaesthesia
- General anaesthesia
- Hospital stay
- 1–2 nights
- Back to daily life
- 2–3 weeks
A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and repairs loose or separated abdominal muscles. It is considered when laxity after pregnancy or major weight loss does not improve with exercise.
Mini and full tummy tuck
If laxity is only below the navel, a mini tummy tuck may be enough. If it extends above the navel, a full tummy tuck is needed and the navel is moved to its new position.
Timing
A stable weight and no pregnancy planned in the near future are recommended. A later pregnancy can loosen the muscles and skin again.
Risks
There are risks of bleeding, infection, fluid collection, delayed wound healing, thickened scars and blood clots. Early walking and, where needed, medication are used to prevent clots.
Timeline
Consultation
Excess skin, muscle separation and previous scars are assessed; we discuss a mini or full tummy tuck.
Before surgery
Your weight should have been stable for at least six months, and smoking must stop.
Day of surgery
The incision sits below the underwear line; muscles are repaired, excess skin removed and the navel repositioned.
First week
You walk slightly bent forward; a garment and drains may be used.
First six weeks
No heavy lifting or abdominal exercise.
First year
The scar gradually fades; scar-care advice is given.
Questions to ask
Add the questions you tick to your consultation request, or print them and bring them along.
Patient experiences
I came for the looseness of my tummy after pregnancy. The first week was hard, and he had told me so plainly beforehand.
Comments are published with the patient’s written consent, using initials only. Results vary from person to person.
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace an examination. Every surgical and medical procedure carries risks and results vary from person to person. The right approach for you can only be decided at a face-to-face consultation.
