Tummy Tuck
Firm up and flatten your tummy with a tummy tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that helps to remove excess skin, tighten your abdominal and flatten your stomach.
Factors such as weight loss, ageing and pregnancy can leave you with loose, sagging skin on your tummy. A tummy tuck is an excellent solution for this issue, helping you to achieve a slimmer, more toned look.
Although a tummy tuck procedure removes excess skin and fat, it should not be thought of as a weight loss operation. Tummy tucks are most effective when performed after you have achieved the weight you are aiming for.
Tummy tucks – the FAQs
What can I expect during a tummy tuck procedure?
A tummy tuck is performed under a general anaesthetic. The surgeon will create an incision across the lower half of your abdomen and, in the case of a full tummy tuck, around the belly button. The muscles will be tightened, excess fat and skin will be removed and the belly button will be moved into a more suitable position. The incision will be closed with stitches.
How long will I need to take off work to recover?
This cosmetic surgery procedure will involve at least one night’s stay in the hospital and it is advisable to take a couple of weeks off work to rest and give your body a chance to recover.
What sort of aftercare is involved?
Immediately after the operation, there will be some swelling, soreness and your skin will feel tight. The hospital will provide a Macom™ compression garment in order to help maintain your new shape.
For the first few weeks, it is important to take it easy and avoid physical exertion or any activity that might damage your new tummy. Our medical staff will provide you with all the information and advice you need to minimise any discomfort and accelerate the healing process.
Will there be much scarring?
There will be a scar at the incision site but this is generally located below the bikini line so is unlikely to be visible when you are wearing underwear or swimwear. The colour of the scar will become less apparent over time, to your natural skin tone.
Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
What is a mini tummy tuck?
This is a type of abdominoplasty that creates a small incision just a couple of inches beneath the naval in order to remove excess skin from the lower abdominal and tighten the muscles.
Should I choose a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck?
A good candidate for a mini tummy tuck would be someone that has the majority of their excess skin hanging below the naval. In this situation, the belly button does not need to be repositioned.
Both mini and full tummy tucks are recommended as a solution for patients who have already achieved their target weight, not for those that are looking to lose weight.
