Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) removes excess abdominal skin and fat while tightening the underlying muscle wall, addressing changes that cannot be corrected through diet and exercise.
Abdominoplasty addresses redundant skin, residual fat, and separation of the abdominal muscles (rectus divarication) that often persists after pregnancy or significant weight loss. The procedure tightens the muscle layer, removes the excess skin and fat, and repositions the navel. A scar runs across the lower abdomen, hidden beneath underwear or swimwear.
Variations include the standard abdominoplasty, mini-abdominoplasty (for limited lower-abdominal laxity), and extended techniques for patients with significant skin redundancy.
Patients who commonly benefit include those with:
Best candidates are at or near their target weight, have completed childbearing, and are committed to maintaining their result.
Most patients stay in hospital for two to three nights. Drains may be used in the immediate post-operative period. A compression garment is worn for several weeks. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are restricted for six to eight weeks.
Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.
All surgical procedures carry potential risks and complications, which will be discussed in detail at your consultation.