Tummy tuck

Abdominoplasty — Body contouring

Surgery that removes loose abdominal skin after pregnancy or weight loss and repairs separated abdominal muscles.

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Woman standing at the window of a patient room with a hand on her abdomen

Procedure card

Duration
2–4 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Hospital stay
1–2 nights
Recovery
Compression garment 6 weeks
Back to social life
2–3 weeks
Settled result
Settles within 6–12 months

After pregnancy or major weight loss, abdominal skin can lose its elasticity and the abdominal muscles can separate. Exercise strengthens the muscles but cannot correct the loose skin.

In a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat are removed and separated muscles are stitched together. The incision is planned below the bikini line. For less laxity, a mini tummy tuck covering only the lower abdomen may be enough.

Preparation and procedure

  1. Consultation

    Skin excess, muscle separation and incision position are planned.

  2. Before surgery

    Tests and anaesthetic assessment; being close to your ideal weight is recommended.

  3. Surgery

    Excess skin is removed and the abdominal muscles repaired.

  4. Recovery

    Compression garment for six weeks; walk slightly bent in the first week.

  5. Check-ups

    Week 1, months 1, 3 and 6.

Recovery timeline

Drag along the line or tap a day to see what usually happens at that point.

0 day

Day of surgery: one or two nights at the clinic; a drain may be placed.

  1. Day 0Day of surgery: one or two nights at the clinic; a drain may be placed.
  2. Day 2Drain removed, short walks begin.
  3. Day 7First check-up; the slightly bent posture eases.
  4. Day 14Return to desk work possible.
  5. Day 42Compression garment off, gradual return to exercise.
  6. Day 180The scar begins to fade; the abdomen nears its final shape.

The timeline describes an average course; recovery varies from person to person. Your surgeon gives you your own timeline.

The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. Every surgical procedure carries its own risks and results vary from person to person. The right approach for you can only be decided after an examination.

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