Abdominoplasty

A major body-contouring surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles for a firmer, flatter, more sculpted midsection.

What Is It?

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the underlying muscles, restoring a firmer and more contoured midsection. It is commonly performed on individuals with loose, sagging skin and weakened abdominal muscles caused by pregnancy, significant weight loss or ageing. A tummy tuck is suitable for both men and women in good general health and at a stable weight, and it works best for non-smokers. It should not be confused with liposuction, although liposuction may be combined with the procedure. Women who have stretched abdominal muscles and skin after multiple pregnancies, or those who have lost a lot of weight but still have excess fat or loose skin, often benefit greatly. Abdominoplasty is best avoided if you are still planning future pregnancies or significant additional weight loss.

Duration

1–5 hours depending on technique (mini, complete or circumferential)

Results

Initial results immediately; final shape at 3–6 months

Recovery

~1 week off work; limit strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks

The Procedure

Consultation & Planning

Our team assesses your skin excess, fat distribution and muscle separation to recommend the right procedure — complete abdominoplasty, partial/mini, or circumferential. Pre-op steps include stopping smoking, balanced nutrition and reviewing blood-thinning medications.

Surgical Repair

Under general anaesthesia, an incision is made along the bikini line. The abdominal muscles are tightened and excess skin and fat are removed. In a complete tummy tuck, an incision around the navel is also made; in a mini tummy tuck the belly button is usually not moved.

Closure, Drains & Compression

Incisions are stitched and bandaged, drainage tubes may be placed temporarily, and a compression garment is fitted to support healing, control swelling and shape the new contour.

Key Benefits

Removes loose, hanging excess skin from the abdomen

Tightens separated abdominal muscles (diastasis repair)

Creates a firmer, flatter, more toned midsection

Improves body contour from front, sides and back (with circumferential technique)

Eliminates many stretch marks within removed skin

Restores a more confident silhouette in clothing and swimwear

Can be combined with liposuction for fuller body contouring

Aftercare Guide

Wear the compression garment exactly as instructed for support and contouring
Set up a comfortable recovery space at home — loose clothing, hand-held shower, bathroom chair, phone within reach
Avoid strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks
Eat balanced meals and stay well hydrated for proper healing
Stop all forms of nicotine for at least 1 month before and 2 weeks after surgery
Attend follow-up reviews to remove drains (usually within a week or two) and monitor healing