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Abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck, is an operation to remove excess skin from the abdomen and tighten tummy muscles, to create a firmer flatter shape.  Tummy tucks have always been a popular cosmetic treatment, particularly amongst women who dislike the effects childbirth has had on their body shape and want a return to a tighter flatter tummy.

It is not a treatment for being overweight and you should ideally be within several pounds of their ideal weight before even considering a tummy tuck.  A tummy tuck is a solution to treat the loose folds of skin and fat over the abdomen that can be left after dramatic weight loss or pregnancy.  Despite exercise and diet, these problem areas may be difficult to shift and can be source of embarrassment, particularly when wearing swimwear or even undressing in front of our partners. 

In some cases liposuction is performed at the same time as a tummy tuck for an overall improvement to the profile of the abdomen.

The procedure

This is a major procedure, involving a general anaesthetic and a one or two night stay in hospital.  It involves removing an area of skin and underlying fat, and repositioning the .  Your surgeon will make an incision across the lower abdomen and another around the tummy button.  Excess fat and skin are then removed and the stomach muscles are pulled tighter and stitched in place.  The procedure also requires your tummy button to be removed and repositioned.  A less radical 'mini abdominoplasty' is also available for people whose tummy protrudes only below the belly button.

Your recovery

Immediately after the operation the abdominal skin will feel very tight and you may need to wear an elasticated support garment initially to help the treated areas heal smoothly and produce the best possible results.  Scarring is minimal just below the bikini line, and whilst pink at first will eventually return to normal skin colour.  It is recommended that you have at least two weeks away from work or more if you do a physical job.  Strenuous activity of any sort will need to be avoided for several weeks.