Abdominoplasty, Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical technique to improve the contour of the abdomen. There are a range of types of tummy tuck offered by our Purity Bridge Consultant Plastic Surgeons, and these include mini-tummy tucks, full tummy tucks and post massive weight loss procedures, such as a lower body lift (belt lipectomy), fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty and flank lifts. The ideal procedure for you will be discussed with you after a careful clinical examination by one of our expert Consultant Plastic Surgeons.
Most forms of tummy tucks require a general anaesthetic (i.e. they are performed when you are asleep), however it is possible to have a mini-tummy tuck under local anaesthetic. The procedure is performed in a fully equipped operating theatre in a leading local private hospital.
The excess skin and fat is removed from the lower part of the abdomen, after careful planning drawings have been performed on you. Usually, the abdominal muscles are tightened as part of the procedure. The final scar ends up being in the bikini line going from hip to hip, with an additional scar around the belly button.
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is the gold standard procedure for recontouring and reshaping the abdomen. It is particularly good at addressing any lax skin that remains following pregnancy or weight loss, which no amount of exercise will improve. The procedure is also excellent for improving the shape of the tummy as a result of the internal stitches used to tighten the muscles.
Anaesthetic
General
Procedure Length
150 minutes
Facility Stay
Day Case
Cost
From £9200 without liposuction
Downtime
Light exercise can resume after 4-6 weeks
Available in-house at Purity Bridge
Yes
Anaesthetic
General
Procedure Length
150 minutes
Facility Stay
Day Case
Cost
From £9200 without liposuction
Downtime
Light exercise can resume after 4-6 weeks
Available in-house at Purity Bridge
Yes
A full abdominoplasty takes between 2 and 3 hours, whereas a mini-abdominoplasty takes around an hour. The more extensive post massive weight loss procedures take longer.
For a full abdominoplasty, it takes 2-3 weeks to recover, but no exercise is recommended for 6 weeks after surgery. Most people are able to return to light duties at work at 2-weeks, but if you can take longer off work, it is helpful.
Heavy lifting and sporting activity should not be undertaken for 6-weeks. Driving may start at 2-3 weeks, depending on how well you are healing.
Like any surgical procedures, an abdominoplasty has a risk of complications. Our Purity Bridge Consultant Plastic Surgeons take every care possible to minimise these, however, the following might still occur:
Further complications and risks are detailed in our comprehensive abdominoplasty booklet – please contact the clinic and we will send you a copy.
