Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is an operation that removes sagging skin and excess fat from the abdomen and, when needed, repairs abdominal muscles separated by pregnancy or weight changes, giving a flatter and firmer abdomen. It is especially preferred for loose skin that does not improve with exercise, typically after childbirth or significant weight loss. It leaves a permanent scar in the lower abdomen.

What is a tummy tuck?

Even people of normal size and weight can sometimes develop some excess, laxity and sagging in the abdomen. The main causes are genetics, multiple pregnancies, previous surgery and weight changes. If you would like a firmer, flatter abdomen, a tummy tuck can help. The operation removes excess fat and surplus skin, and in some cases the loosened, separated muscles also need to be repaired, which gives a flatter, tighter contour. A tummy tuck is usually performed in a hospital, and general anesthesia is most often preferred; sedation with local anesthesia can be used for a mini tummy tuck. These decisions depend on the details of the procedure and on the choice of the surgeon and the patient.

In a mini tummy tuck, only the excess skin below the belly button is removed and the belly button stays where it is. In a full tummy tuck, the skin above and below the belly button is tightened together, and the belly button is reshaped in its new position. If there is also excess fat on the waist and flanks, liposuction can be added to the operation; which approach is right for you is decided at the consultation.

Who is a tummy tuck suitable for?

It is suitable for people in good general health whose weight has been stable for some time and who have sagging, loose abdominal skin. Those with separated abdominal muscles after pregnancy (diastasis recti) and those left with excess skin after major weight loss are the most common groups. For people with only excess fat and elastic skin, liposuction alone may be enough. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss method; if you want to improve stretch marks without surgery, stretch mark treatment options can also be considered.

How is a tummy tuck performed?

The operation is usually performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. The incision is placed in the lower abdomen, below the underwear line, running between the two hip bones. The skin and fat are lifted, any separated muscles are brought together in the midline with stitches, and the skin is then pulled down and the excess removed. In a full tummy tuck, the belly button is recreated in its new position. A drain may be placed at the end of the operation to prevent fluid from collecting.

At Sculpture Polyclinic in Etiler, the consultation and planning before a tummy tuck are carried out by plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon Op. Dr. Toygar Ünveren. The examination assesses previous surgical scars, the degree of muscle separation and any future pregnancy plans.

What is recovery like?

In the first days there is tightness and pain in the abdomen; to protect the incision line, walking slightly bent forward and lying with the knees slightly bent are recommended in the early period. A compression garment is worn for several weeks. Walking early is important to reduce the risk of blood clots. Most people return to desk work after about two weeks, while heavy lifting and exercise that strains the abdominal muscles should wait a few more weeks. The scar can take up to a year to mature. The timeframes in the summary above are averages and vary from person to person.

What are the risks and possible complications?

Fluid collection under the skin (seroma), bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, a thickened or wide scar, an irregular belly button shape and reduced sensation in the lower abdomen can occur. Blood clots in the leg veins are rare but serious; early movement and, where needed, preventive measures reduce this risk. Wound healing problems are significantly more common in smokers.

Who is a tummy tuck not suitable for?

Surgery is usually postponed for people planning a pregnancy or significant weight loss in the near future, because these changes affect the result. It is not recommended for people with uncontrolled heart disease, diabetes or a history of blood clots, or for those who cannot stop smoking. If you develop one-sided leg swelling, shortness of breath, a high fever or darkening of the skin at the wound after surgery, seek medical help immediately.

Frequently asked questions

Does a tummy tuck leave a scar?

Yes, a permanent scar remains in the lower abdomen. The incision is planned so that it can be covered by underwear or a swimsuit; the scar fades over time but does not disappear completely.

What is the difference between a mini and a full tummy tuck?

In a mini tummy tuck, only the excess skin below the belly button is removed and the incision is shorter. In a full tummy tuck, the entire abdominal skin, including above the belly button, is tightened and the belly button is reshaped.

Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

The operation does not prevent pregnancy. However, because a later pregnancy can loosen the skin and muscles again, it is usually recommended to have the surgery once your pregnancy plans are complete.

Does a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?

Because the skin below the belly button is removed, the stretch marks in that area go with it. Stretch marks in the remaining areas do not disappear completely, although their appearance may change as the skin is tightened.

How long is the compression garment worn after a tummy tuck?

The compression garment is usually worn for several weeks after surgery. Your surgeon decides on the duration based on how healing progresses and the extent of the procedure.

Can a tummy tuck and liposuction be done together?

Where appropriate, excess fat on the waist and flanks can be removed with liposuction in the same operation. For safety, the extent of the combined procedures is decided at the consultation.

This content is for information only and does not replace a medical examination. For information about a tummy tuck or to book a consultation, please get in touch with us.