Body Procedures
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Flattening and firming the abdominal wall and skin
Overview
A tummy tuck removes excess abdominal skin and fat while tightening underlying weakened muscles, most often addressing changes brought on by pregnancy or significant weight loss.
It is commonly considered by patients with loose abdominal skin or muscle separation (diastasis recti) that has not resolved with exercise alone.
The extent of surgery varies considerably — a mini tummy tuck addresses only the area below the navel with a shorter scar, while a full tummy tuck repositions the navel itself and addresses the entire abdominal wall, and the right extent depends on how much muscle separation and skin excess is actually present.
Candidacy
Is Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Right for You?
- Loose or excess abdominal skin
- Weakened or separated abdominal muscles
- Stable weight, ideally after completing any planned family
- Abdominal changes that have not responded to diet and exercise alone
- Non-smokers or willing to stop smoking well before and after surgery
What to Expect
Your Journey
- 01
Consultation
Assessment of skin laxity, fat distribution, and abdominal muscle separation to plan whether a mini or full tummy tuck is appropriate.
- 02
Procedure
Performed under general anaesthesia, tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess skin, often combined with liposuction for more complete contouring.
- 03
Recovery
A compression garment and drains are typically used for the first days to weeks while the abdomen heals and swelling gradually resolves.
Recovery
Recovery & Aftercare
Most patients need 2–3 weeks away from work and several weeks before resuming strenuous exercise, with muscle-tightening sutures fully maturing over months. Walking slightly bent forward for the first several days is normal while the tightened muscles and skin settle.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same as liposuction?
No — liposuction removes fat, while a tummy tuck also removes excess skin and repairs muscle separation; the two are often combined.
Will I have a visible scar?
Yes, a lower abdominal scar is a necessary trade-off for muscle and skin correction, usually planned to sit low enough to be hidden by underwear.
Can this help with diastasis recti after pregnancy?
Yes — muscle repair during a tummy tuck directly addresses abdominal muscle separation.
What's the difference between a mini and full tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck addresses skin and muscle below the navel with a shorter scar and doesn't reposition the navel; a full tummy tuck treats the entire abdominal wall and repositions the navel, and is used when correction needs to extend above it.
Is it safe to have more children after a tummy tuck?
It's generally recommended to complete your family before surgery, since a future pregnancy can stretch the repaired muscles and skin again, potentially undoing some of the result.
Have Questions About Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?
Every case is different. Get in touch to discuss your situation, or keep reading for more on candidacy, recovery, and what to expect.
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