Full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

About abdominoplasty

The removal of excess, loose skin that frequently persists after major weight loss is one of the main reasons for having an abdominoplasty. Without the ability to naturally contract, the skin may expand when we lose excess weight, leaving behind drooping skin. Additionally, as we age, our bodies produce less collagen, which reduces skin suppleness and contributes to wrinkles and drooping. In elderly people with lower collagen levels, even modest weight loss can result in the persistence of sagging skin.

This is the best option if you have a lot of excess skin. A cut will be made between the hips, fat may be removed using liposuction, your belly button will be freed and loose muscles pulled and stitched together. Sometimes the doctor will need to reconstruct your belly button and tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. This usually takes around two hours.

The amount of scarring you are left with will depend on your skin type, overall health and the type of procedure you have but abdominal scars can normally be hidden well beneath the bikini line.

You may need to stay over for one night in the hospital.

You will feel some pain and swelling around your tummy immediately after the operation. This is normal and your symptoms should start to improve within a few weeks.

When you get home you’ll need to take things easy at first. Arrange at least a week off work and you should gradually be able to return to normal activity within four to six weeks. Light activity should be comfortable after around two weeks but you shouldn’t do anything too active – like go to the gym or take an exercise class – for around six weeks.

You will be asked to keep your knees and hips bent when resting, to take the strain off the stitches. A corset will also help reduce pain and swelling in the first month.