Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a procedure that tightens abdominal muscles and removes excess fat and skin. Pregnancy, weight loss and genetics can contribute to the development of loose skin, lax muscles and stretch marks in the abdominal region. These areas typically persist despite proper diet and exercise. A partial abdominoplasty, or mini tummy tuck, is less invasive and targets fat located only in the lower abdomen.

The most aesthetically satisfying result of this procedure is a narrower waist and firmer abdomen, which will give you a more youthful appearance. An abdominoplasty can often also result in improved posture, and can relieve some types of back pain, since the tightened muscles now give better spinal support. The procedure can also be combined with surgery to repair a ventral (abdominal) hernia.

Loose skin is removed from the lower abdominal area. Liposuction is used to treat the love handles and other stubborn fatty deposits. The abdominal muscles are repositioned and tightened. A new belly button needs to be constructed. The scar is typically in the bikini line. The width of the scar will depend on the amount of excess skin to be removed. A mini tummy tuck typically results in a shorter scar, less tightening of the abdominal muscles and the navel is usually  not affected by the operation. The results are not as dramatic but the recovery is significantly quicker.

General anaesthetic in theatre with an overnight stay.

Moderately painful

50% recovery in 4 weeks

80% recovery in 6 weeks

99% recovery in 6 months

Minor wound complications. The scar does take time to settle. Blood clots and major wound problems are serious potential side effects, but are fortunately quite rare. Side-effects are more common in patients that are obese, smokers or diabetics. This procedure should preferably be done after completion of having children. Because of the slightly higher risk of blood clots, it is not recommended to travel long distances within 4 weeks.