Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck): what it is, who it is for and what recovery is like

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and repairs the rectus abdominis muscles when they have separated, which is common after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

What does the surgery include?

Besides removing the excess skin, my technique includes a corset-type repair of the rectus abdominis muscles, which restores firmness to the abdominal wall. Depending on the case, it can be combined with 360-degree ultrasonic liposuction to improve the waist and flanks, and with fat transfer to the buttocks and hips.

Types of abdominoplasty

Classic abdominoplasty: for patients with excess skin in the lower abdomen and no excess skin at the sides or toward the back.
Extended abdominoplasty: when the excess skin extends toward the sides and the position of the buttocks is good.
Circumferential abdominoplasty: for patients with excess skin in the lower abdomen and at the sides who also have laxity of the buttocks; it allows the buttocks to be lifted and firmed.
Fleur-de-lis circumferential abdominoplasty: for patients with excess skin both vertically and horizontally, for example after significant weight loss.

The right technique is defined at the consultation, not before.

Who is a candidate?

You have excess skin or abdominal laxity that does not improve with diet or exercise.
You have separation of the rectus abdominis muscles.
You keep a stable weight: a BMI below 30 for patients without massive weight loss, or below 32 for patients after massive weight loss.
You are in good general health and do not smoke, or can stop at least 4 weeks before surgery.

Abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss treatment. If you are thinking about having more children, it is recommended to wait until your family is complete; talk about it at your consultation.

Abdominoplasty and liposuction: why are they combined?

Removing excess skin solves part of the contour; 360-degree ultrasonic liposuction works on the rest of the waist, flanks and back. To understand the technique, read Liposuction: what it is and how it works

What is recovery like?

Every patient recovers differently. In general:

A compression garment is worn for 8 to 12 weeks.
Relative rest is recommended during the first days, and physical strain should be avoided for the first 4 to 6 weeks.
Gentle walking from the first days helps circulation. Compression stockings and good hydration are also important.
The scar and swelling keep changing for months; the final result is assessed at 10 to 12 months.

Risks

Every surgery carries risks, such as swelling, fluid collection (seroma), healing problems or visible scars. That is why it is important to choose a certified surgeon; I explain how in How to choose the right plastic surgeon

Frequently asked questions

Is abdominoplasty a weight-loss treatment?

No. It removes excess skin and fat and repairs the rectus abdominis muscles; it is not a weight-loss treatment. A stable weight is recommended: a BMI below 30, or below 32 for patients after massive weight loss.

How long is the compression garment worn?

In general for 8 to 12 weeks. Every patient recovers differently.

When is the final result assessed?

The scar and swelling keep changing for months; the final result is assessed at 10 to 12 months.

If you are considering an abdominoplasty, book your consultation with me and we will review your case calmly.