A Tummy Tuck is an invasive surgical technique that involves different procedures to remove excess skin and fat and tighten the underlying muscles. This treatment is often chosen by patients who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, resulting in stretched or sagging abdominal tissues.
A Tummy Tucks is not a weight-loss procedure, instead the treatment is focused on improving the contour and appearance of the abdomen. This surgery is not the same as liposuction, which is another way to remove fat. However, tummy tuck is mostly combined with liposuction.
Choosing a Tummy Tuck clinic is a significant decision that requires careful consideration to ensure your safety, satisfaction and overall well-being.
The benefits of a Tummy Tuck can be both aesthetic and functional, providing various advantages to individuals seeking this procedure. Some of the key benefits include:
It's important to note that while a tummy tuck can offer various benefits, it's a surgical procedure that involves certain risks and a recovery period.
The cost of Tummy Tuck varies based on factors, including the surgeon's experience and reputation, the complexity of the individual's procedure requirements, the location of the clinic and any additional services or facilities provided.
On average, Tummy Tuck surgery in the UK can vary with costs between £5,378 to £15,900. However, this is a rough estimate and the total cost may be higher or lower depending on the previously mentioned factors. Additionally, any future surgeries required will incur separate charges.
The best way to obtain an accurate estimate is to schedule a consultation with one or more of our partner clinics.
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There are different types of Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty) that vary the level of correction depending upon the patients needs. Factors such as the amount of excess skin and fat, the position of the abdominal muscles and the desired outcome will influence the choice of procedure.
Common types of Tummy Tucks include:
This is the traditional Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty which involves a horizontal incision along the lower abdomen, allowing for the removal of a larger amount of excess skin and fat. The abdominal muscles are tightened from the sternum to the pubic bone and the belly button may be repositioned for a more natural appearance.
The Mini Tummy Tuck is a less extensive procedure that addresses the lower abdomen. It involves a shorter incision minimising scarring and recovery time, omitting a scar around the belly button. It is suitable for individuals with less excess skin and fat, with specific concerns, such as post-Caesarean section overhang.
This treatment extends the incision around the hips, allowing for additional correction of the flank area. This type of Tummy Tuck is suitable for those with significant excess skin on the sides.
It involves incisions made both horizontally and vertically, resulting in a more comprehensive tissue removal and reshaping. This procedure is more suited for individuals who have a significant amount of excess skin not only horizontally but also vertically, above and below the belly button often after major weight loss or bariatric surgery.
This technique designed to address sagging skin and tissues in the upper abdomen. It involves making incisions in the upper abdominal region, usually just below the breasts, to remove excess skin and tighten the tissues. This procedure is particularly suitable for individuals experiencing laxity and sagging in the upper abdomen, often as a result of factors such as aging, weight loss, or pregnancy.
This procedure, also known as a lower body lift, covers the whole circumference of the abdomen, hips, and lower back. A horizontal incision extends around the body, similar to a belt. Abdominal muscles are tightened with the excess skin and fat removed. This procedure is often included as part of a more extensive body contouring procedure after significant weight loss.
The following are some general guidelines to help you prepare for the procedure:
Consultation with a Specialist: Firstly, you need to schedule a meeting with one of our clinic partners who specialises in Tummy Tuck. The plastic surgeon will assess your eligibility for abdominoplasty and explain the procedure in detail. This is the moment to discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have.
Medical Evaluation and Tests: Next check for any necessary medical evaluations or tests recommended by your surgeon. This may include blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), and imaging studies like chest X-rays to assess your suitability for the procedure.
Avoid Certain Medications: Stop taking medications or supplements that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or certain vitamins and herbal products, as advised by your surgeon.
Refrain from Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption for a specified period before the surgery, as these can affect blood flow and the healing process.
Prepare for Post-Procedure Care: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery (Since Abdominoplasty is typically performed under anaesthesia) and prepare your home for a comfortable recovery. Make sure that you have the necessary post-operative care instructions and supplies as advised by your surgeon.
Before surgery your surgeon will provide you with specific preoperative instructions to follow before your surgery.
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A Tummy Tuck surgery or abdominoplasty, The patient is typically administered anesthesia to ensure comfort during the surgery. This may include general anesthesia, where the patient is completely asleep, or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation, where the patient is awake but relaxed. Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the abdominal area. This helps contour the abdomen and enhance the overall results.
The Tummy Tuck surgery involves:
In some cases, the surgeon may need to reposition the belly button to achieve a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. This involves creating a new opening for the belly button and suturing it into place.
The patient is monitored in a recovery area until they are awake and stable. In many cases, patients may be able to go home on the same day. However, in some cases, staying 1-2 nights may be necessary depending on the extent of the procedure and the anaesthesia used.
Most individuals take about 2-4 weeks off work to recover from Tummy Tuck surgery, depending on their job. It's essential to schedule follow-up appointments with the surgeon to assess progress, remove drains if necessary, and monitor healing.
Full recovery after a Tummy Tuck typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks. However, final results may continue to develop over several months as swelling subsides and tissues settle. You may not be able to drive at least for the first week.
As indicated by your surgeon, you'll usually need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support healing as . Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense exercises during the first few weeks.
Here's what to expect during each period:
Moving around will be challenging due to limited mobility, necessitating assistance with basic activities. If drains were inserted during surgery, you'll be instructed to empty and record drainage regularly to aid in your recovery. Initial swelling and bruising will be noticeable.
Discomfort will gradually decrease aided by continued pain management. Rest and limited activity are essential, with short walks encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Swelling will peak and gradually decrease, accompanied by diminishing bruising. It's important to maintain proper wound care by keeping the incision sites clean and dry as directed by your surgeon to support optimal healing.
You'll experience increased mobility, allowing you to engage in light activities around the house. The level of pain and discomfort will continue to diminish, potentially reducing your reliance on pain medication. You may consider returning to work, although it's advisable to avoid strenuous activities. Some residual swelling may persist. Additionally, surgical scars will begin to fade.
Choosing a Tummy Tuck clinic is an important decision with careful consideration. Safety, satisfaction and well-being are paramount. We have many partner clinics to compare the criteria that's important to you.
Are you ready to compare clinics that provide Tummy Tuck cosmetic treatment?
Good candidates are typically individuals with loose or sagging abdominal skin, excess abdominal fat, and weakened or separated abdominal muscles. Ideal candidates are in good overall health.
A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure. It is designed to remove excess skin and fat and tighten the abdominal muscles, resulting in improved contour. Significant weight loss is best achieved through diet and exercise.
While some stretch marks may be removed along with the excess skin during a tummy tuck, not all stretch marks will be eliminated. The extent of stretch mark improvement varies among individuals.
Yes, there will be scars, but their visibility can vary. Surgeons make incisions in locations that can be concealed by underwear or swimwear. Scar management techniques may help minimize their appearance.
Like any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck carries risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and complications related to anaesthesia. It's important to discuss potential risks with your surgeon.