Tummy tuck

An abdominoplasty, or “Tummy Tuck” it is a surgical procedure on the Abdomen to make it thinner and firmer, removing excess skin and around this area and tightening the surrounding muscles.

There are different reasons as to why a patient would opt for a tummy tuck which could include weaker abdomen muscles during and after pregnancy or previously losing weight and wanting to replace the excess skin At the Royal Free PPU our consultants are highly trained experts and will tailor each service to the patients needs ensuring all procedures are carried out to the highest standard.

The procedure

Most commonly performed under general anaesthetic, an abdominoplasty aims to create a flatter tummy and a slimmer waist by removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. Depending on thew complexity of your procedure a Tummy Tuck can take up to 3 hours and depending on the patient you may be required to stay 1-2 nights in the hospital.

A 2 night stay is only required when the navel has been re-positioned. During the procedure your surgeon will make an incision across your lower abdomen and then another one is made around the tummy button. The Muscles will then be pulled tighter removing the excess skin and then stitched back into place.

Aftercare

After your procedure it is recommended you rest for around 7-14 days as your mobility will be limited. Your consultant will provide you with a compression garment which will help you keep swelling and bruising down. Dissolvable stitches are commonly used in the area of the procedure so it will need to be kept clean during your recovery. It is also important to avoid using water on the area and keep dry during your recovery. It is recommended you do not take part in physical activity for around 6 weeks.