A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to create a flatter, firmer abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and, where necessary, tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. It is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced pregnancy, significant weight loss, or age-related skin laxity.

The type of tummy tuck recommended will depend on your anatomy, skin quality, muscle tone, and individual goals. Your surgeon will assess these factors carefully to determine the most suitable approach.

Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery

Full Abdominoplasty

A full tummy tuck is recommended for patients with:

  • Significant excess skin and fat

  • Weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)

  • Loose skin both above and below the belly button

This procedure addresses the entire abdominal area and provides the most comprehensive contour improvement.

Mini (Modified) Abdominoplasty

A mini tummy tuck may be suitable if:

  • Muscle tone is relatively good

  • Excess skin is limited to the lower abdomen

  • There is minimal muscle separation

This technique involves a smaller incision and does not usually require repositioning of the belly button.

Tummy Tuck Combined With Liposuction

It is increasingly common for abdominoplasty to be combined with liposuction. Liposuction allows the surgeon to remove stubborn fat deposits from areas such as the flanks or upper abdomen, enhancing overall contour and achieving a smoother, more balanced result.

The Tummy Tuck Procedure

Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes up to three hours, depending on the extent of correction required.

The procedure involves:

  • A carefully placed incision along the lower abdomen, usually following the bikini line

  • Separation and tightening of the abdominal muscles where required

  • Removal of excess skin and fat

  • Repositioning of the belly button in full abdominoplasty cases

Mini tummy tuck incisions are significantly smaller and more limited in scope.

At the end of the procedure, the abdomen is supported with dressings and bandaging.

Hospital Stay and Aftercare

You will require an overnight hospital stay for monitoring. Upon discharge, you will be provided with an abdominal support garment, which must be worn continuously for the first two weeks to support healing and reduce swelling.

Recovery and Recuperation

Most patients are advised to take approximately two weeks off work, depending on the physical demands of their job. Your surgeon will guide you on when it is safe to gradually resume normal daily activities and exercise.

Many patients choose to recover in comfort at a luxury hotel in either sunny Cyprus or cosmopolitan Istanbul, allowing time to rest and heal before returning home.

Helpful Guides

To help you prepare and make informed decisions, you may find the following guides useful: