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 £8,980 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 £8,980 without liposuction
Downtime
Light exercise can resume after 4-6 weeks
Available in-house at Purity Bridge
Yes
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, usually takes between two and four hours depending on the extent of surgery and whether additional procedures are being performed.
The operation can address excess skin, stubborn fat deposits and weakened abdominal muscles.
Most patients require around two to three weeks away from work, although this varies depending on the nature of their occupation and individual healing.
Swelling can persist for several months, with the final result gradually becoming more apparent over time.
Gentle walking is encouraged shortly after surgery, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks.
Your surgeon will provide personalised recovery advice based on your progress.
Potential risks include bleeding, infection, fluid collections, delayed wound healing, scarring and blood clots.
Although complications are uncommon, they will be discussed thoroughly during your consultation.
A tummy tuck may be suitable for patients who have excess abdominal skin, stretched muscles following pregnancy or significant weight loss, or loose tissue that has not responded to exercise.
Many patients choose surgery to improve both abdominal shape and confidence.
Yes. One of the major benefits of a tummy tuck is that it can repair separated abdominal muscles, a condition known as rectus diastasis.
This can improve abdominal contour and, in some cases, core strength and stability.
The main scar is usually positioned low across the lower abdomen and is designed to be hidden beneath most underwear and swimwear.
A small scar around the belly button is also commonly required.
The results are generally long lasting provided a stable weight is maintained.
Future pregnancies or significant weight gain may affect the appearance of the abdomen after surgery.
