Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in London

Who it may help

An abdominoplasty may be considered if you have:

• loose or overhanging skin on the abdomen after pregnancy or weight loss

• separated abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis), which can make the abdomen look rounded or still pregnant

• a lower abdominal bulge that does not improve with diet and exercise

It is best done once your weight has been stable for 6–12 months and you have finished having children.

Types of abdominoplasty

• Mini abdominoplasty: removes a smaller amount of loose skin below the belly button through a short, low scar. The belly button is not moved.

• Midi abdominoplasty: treats a larger area of loose skin with a longer low scar. It sits between a mini and a full abdominoplasty.

• Full abdominoplasty: removes excess skin and fat from the whole lower abdomen, repositions the belly button and usually includes repair of the abdominal muscles.

• Fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty: for loose skin running both vertically and horizontally, usually after major weight loss. It adds a vertical scar down the middle of the abdomen to the usual low horizontal scar, which tightens the waist from side to side.

Mini, midi and full abdominoplasty can be combined with liposuction of the waist, flanks or upper abdomen to improve contour. Liposuction is usually not combined with a fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, because it increases the risk of poor skin healing.

What surgery involves

The scar is placed low, so it can usually be hidden by underwear or swimwear. In a full abdominoplasty, the separated abdominal muscles are stitched back together (rectus plication) to flatten and strengthen the abdominal wall.

Mr Oezdogan uses progressive tension sutures, which hold the tissues in place from the inside and avoid the need for drains.

Typical operating times, under general anaesthetic:

• mini abdominoplasty: 1–2 hours

• midi abdominoplasty: 1.5–3 hours

• full abdominoplasty: 2–4 hours, with an overnight stay in hospital

• fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty: about one hour longer than a full abdominoplasty, with an overnight stay

Adding liposuction extends the operating time.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

You will be asked about your weight history, pregnancies, any weight-loss treatment and smoking, as these affect the safety and outcome of surgery.

If you take weight-loss medication, weekly injections usually need to be paused 2–4 weeks before surgery and daily tablets 1–2 days before, to reduce anaesthetic risk.

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• bleeding, infection and a collection of fluid under the skin (seroma)

• delayed wound healing, especially in smokers

• scarring, which may be thick or noticeable

• numbness of the lower abdominal skin

• contour irregularities or asymmetry

• blood clots in the legs or lungs (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism). This is a risk with any operation under general anaesthetic, and the risk is higher after abdominoplasty and liposuction.

• the possible need for further surgery

A compression garment is worn for six weeks. Most people return to desk work after 2–4 weeks and to strenuous exercise after about six weeks. If liposuction is added, bruising is often more extensive and recovery may take longer.

Surgery aims to give a flatter, firmer abdomen, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and body contouring surgery take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

Will the scar be visible?

The scar is placed low, usually within the underwear or bikini line. It fades over 12–18 months but does not disappear.

Is an abdominoplasty a weight-loss operation?

No. It removes excess skin and some fat, but is not a substitute for weight loss.

Will an abdominoplasty remove stretch marks?

Stretch marks on the skin that is removed will go, usually those below the belly button. Others may remain.

Do you treat patients under 18?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over.

Can I have an abdominoplasty and breast surgery together?

Yes. Combining procedures, sometimes called a “mummy makeover”, is discussed at your consultation.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

To discuss abdominoplasty, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options