Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty)

What is a tummy tuck?

This surgery typically involves removing loose skin and excess fat from the lower abdominal area, as well as tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall.

As well as improving how your abdomen looks, a tummy tuck can support core strength by restoring your separated abdominal muscles (a condition known as diastasis recti).

Types of tummy tuck surgery

There are several types of tummy tuck procedures, and the best one for you will depend on your body shape, the amount of loose skin or fat you’d like to remove, and your personal goals. At your consultation, your consultant (surgeon) will perform a detailed assessment and work with you to decide the most effective approach.

The most common types of tummy tuck surgery are:

1. Mini tummy tuck (partial abdominoplasty)

A mini tummy tuck is the least invasive form of abdominoplasty. It is ideal for people with a small amount of loose skin or fat deposits in the lower abdomen area.

What it involves:

• Your surgeon will make a small horizontal cut (incision)  just above the pubic area.
• Your surgeon will remove a small amount of excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen. Your belly button will not be moved.
• If needed, your surgeon will also tighten the lower abdominal muscles.

Benefits of a mini tummy tuck:

• Smaller scar compared to other types of tummy tuck.
• Shorter recovery time.
• Ideal for people who are already close to their desired body weight.
• Ideal for people who only need a small improvement.

2. Full tummy tuck (standard abdominoplasty)

This is the most common type of tummy tuck. It addresses loose skin and separated abdominal muscles, both above and below the belly button, making it a great option after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

What it involves:

• Your surgeon makes a horizontal cut across the lower abdomen, from hip to hip.
• A second cut is made around the belly button to detach it from the surrounding skin.
• Your surgeon will repair and tighten the abdominal muscles, which act like an internal corset to flatten the tummy.
• The excess skin is pulled down and removed, and the belly button is brought through a new opening to make sure it looks natural.

Benefits of a full tummy tuck:

• Ideal for people looking to restore their pre-pregnancy tummy.
• Ideal for people seeking a flatter appearance to their abdomen after significant weight loss.
• Improves loose skin and muscle separation across the whole abdomen.
• Improves core strength, posture and body confidence.

3. Extended tummy tuck

An extended tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, flanks (also known as love handles) and hips. It is a popular option after significant weight loss.

What it involves:

• Your surgeon will make a long horizontal cut that wraps around the lower abdomen, past the hips.
• This longer cut allows your surgeon to remove excess skin from the abdomen, flanks and hips.
• Your surgeon will also repair and tighten the abdominal muscles.
• The remaining skin is then pulled and tightened to create a smoother contour around your waist and hips.

Benefits of an extended tummy tuck:

• Removes loose skin around the abdomen, sides and back.
• Enhances the waistline.
• Offers a more dramatic result than a standard tummy tuck.

4. Fleur-de-Lis tummy tuck

A Fleur-de-Lis tummy tuck is a specialised technique designed for people with a large amount of excess skin in both vertical and horizontal directions, which is common after massive weight loss (e.g. following bariatric surgery). This surgery results in a noticeable vertical scar and is only recommended when other approaches aren’t suitable.

What it involves:

• The Fleur-de-Lis uses two cuts: a horizontal cut across the lower abdomen, and a vertical cut that runs from the bottom of the breastbone down to the first cut.
• This allows your surgeon to remove a significant amount of skin from the upper and lower abdomen, tightening the torso.
• The abdominal muscles will also be tightened.

Benefits of a Fleur-de-Lis tummy tuck:

• Ideal for people with large amounts of excess skin following significant weight loss.
• Reshapes both the waistline and torso.
• Provides the biggest transformation for your entire tummy and waist.

5. Reverse tummy tuck

A reverse tummy tuck targets loose skin on the upper abdomen – the area above the belly button. It is often combined with breast surgery, like a breast lift or augmentation.

What it involves:

• Your surgeon will cut the natural crease underneath the breasts (the inframammary fold).
• The skin of the upper abdomen is gently lifted upwards.
• Your surgeon removes the excess skin to create a tighter, smoother appearance.

Benefits of a reverse tummy tuck:

• Best for sagging or loose skin in the upper abdomen.
• It can be combined with breast lift or augmentation.
• It can effectively tighten the upper abdomen with a well-hidden scar.

6. Tummy tuck with liposuction (Lipoabdominoplasty)

This technique combines a tummy tuck with liposuction in a single operation. 

What it involves:

• Your surgeon first uses liposuction to remove stubborn fat from areas such as the hips, waist, and abdomen.
• Your surgeon will then perform a tummy tuck (either a mini or a full tummy tuck) to remove excess skin and tighten the abdominal muscles.

Benefits of a tummy tuck with liposuction:

• Ideal for individuals undergoing a tummy tuck who also have stubborn fat pockets.
• Improves abdominal contour and smoothness.
• Removes both excess fat and loose skin.
• Helps create a more sculpted, natural-looking silhouette.

7. Endoscopic tummy tuck (minimally invasive)

An endoscopic tummy tuck is a minimally invasive option for tightening separated or weakened abdominal muscles (a condition known as diastasis recti), which is best suited for people with muscle separation but who have little to no loose skin.

What it involves:

• To begin, your surgeon will make a few tiny 'keyhole' incisions, which are usually hidden within the belly button or in the pubic hairline.
• A tiny camera (an endoscope) is inserted through one of the incisions, allowing your surgeon to see a clear, magnified view of your abdominal muscles on a screen.
• Watching the screen, your surgeon uses special long-handled instruments to place strong internal stitches, sewing the separated or weakened muscles back together.
• This repair works like an internal corset, tightening and flattening the abdominal wall from the inside out.
• Liposuction is often performed at the same time to remove excess fat.

Benefits of an endoscopic tummy tuck:

• Less visible scarring, as the incisions (cuts) are often hidden within the belly button or in the pubic hairline
• Faster recovery and minimal downtime.
• Best for people who have a slight tummy bulge caused by weakened or stretched abdominal muscles.

Is a tummy tuck right for me?

A tummy tuck may be right for you if you want to remove loose, sagging skin or tighten weakened abdominal muscles – especially after weight loss, pregnancy or surgery. It is also suitable and effective for individuals who find that exercise and a healthy diet alone are not sufficient to address sagging skin or weakened muscles.

A tummy tuck can also address physical issues, such as:

• Back pain.
• Skin irritation caused by skin folds.
• Postural-related problems.
• Bladder issues.

You might be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you:

• Have loose or overhanging abdominal skin.
• Have diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles) after pregnancy.
• Have maintained a stable weight for 6 – 12 months.
• Are not planning future pregnancies or significant weight changes.

Who should avoid tummy tuck surgery?

A tummy tuck isn’t for everyone, and your consultant will advise against it if:

• You are significantly overweight or obese.
• You are a smoker or use nicotine products.
• You plan on becoming pregnant in the future.
• You have certain health conditions (e.g. blood clots, diabetes, lung or heart disease).
• You have unrealistic expectations about the results.

Your consultant (surgeon) will carry out a detailed assessment before deciding if tummy tuck surgery is safe and suitable for you.

What happens during an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)?

What happens before a tummy tuck

Your Nuffield Health consultant (surgeon) will carry out a physical examination and review your medical history before deciding if tummy tuck surgery is suitable for you. You may need blood tests and imaging to confirm you are fit for surgery.

Your consultant will explain the various surgical techniques and recommend the most suitable method for you. They will also discuss your reasons for a tummy tuck, your goals and what you hope to achieve from the surgery. We encourage you to share your expectations with your consultant so that you know what is realistically achievable with this procedure.

Your consultant will discuss scarring, recovery and potential risks and complications of tummy tuck surgery. Feel free to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about the surgery or your recovery with your consultant or healthcare team.

Preparing for tummy tuck surgery

In the days leading up to your surgery, your consultant and the hospital team will provide you with instructions on preparing for surgery. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully.

• Please inform your consultant about any medications you are currently taking. They will tell you if you should continue or temporarily stop any medications before and after your surgery.
• If you smoke, stop smoking several weeks before the operation.
• Try to maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Don’t shave or wax the area where an incision (cut) will be made, as this can increase the risk of infection.
• Try to have a bath or shower the day before or on the day of the operation.
• Follow fasting instructions. You'll need to avoid eating or drinking 6 - 12 hours before the surgery as tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anaesthesia.
• Prepare your home for your post-surgery recovery. Remove trip hazards and place essential items within easy reach.
• Arrange transportation. You won't be able to drive after surgery, so make sure someone can pick you up from the hospital, take you home and stay with you the first night.

During the operation

Tummy tuck surgery can take between 1 and 6 hours, depending on the type of tummy tuck you will have. A tummy tuck is performed under general anaesthesia so that you will be asleep throughout the operation.

1. Your surgeon will use a surgical marker to mark the area of your lower abdomen. These markings will serve as a guide for the incision(s) (cuts) and outline the area of excess skin to be removed.
2. After you are comfortably under anaesthesia, the medical team will clean your abdomen with an antiseptic to minimise the risk of infection.
3. Depending on the type of tummy tuck you undergo, your surgeon will make incisions (cuts) on your abdomen to remove excess skin and repair the abdominal muscles.
4. If needed, a new opening will be created for your belly button.
5. Finally, your surgeon will use stitches to close the surgical site.
   

After the operation

Once your tummy tuck is complete, you’ll be taken to the recovery room, where a nurse will monitor you as you wake up. You’ll have dressings on your abdomen and possibly drains (thin plastic tubes) on either side to help remove excess fluid. A drip may be placed in your hand or arm to keep you hydrated.

Some bruising and swelling are normal, and you may feel discomfort — especially if your abdominal muscles were tightened. Pain relief will be given as needed. When you're ready, you’ll be moved to your private room.

Your consultant will provide you with clear guidance on pain management, wound care, and gradually returning to normal activities in the days and weeks that follow.

Going home after abdominoplasty surgery

You'll usually be in hospital for 1 to 2 days, depending on the type of tummy tuck you've had. Shorter procedures, such as a mini tummy tuck, are typically performed as a day-case surgery.

Before you leave the hospital, your consultant and healthcare team will give you instructions on how to recover at home. General aftercare advice may include:

• Rest: Get plenty of rest, especially in the first two weeks following your surgery.
• Positioning: Keep your body slightly bent at the waist when walking or resting to avoid putting tension on your incision line.
  
• Sleeping: Sleep on your back, with your upper body and knees elevated. This position helps reduce swelling and tension on your abdomen.
• Activity: Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least six weeks.
• Compression garment: Wear your abdominal binder or compression garment as instructed by your surgeon. This helps to support your healing tissues and reduce swelling.
• Drains: If your drains are still in place when you are discharged, your nurse will show you how to care for and maintain them.
• Wound care: The healthcare team will explain how to keep your wound clean and what signs of infection to look out for. Keep the area clean and dry.
• Showering: Your healthcare team will advise you when it is safe to shower. Avoid soaking in baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools until you receive clearance from your surgeon.
• Driving: Do not drive until you have stopped taking prescription pain medication and can comfortably perform an emergency stop without pain (usually 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery).
• Smoking: Do not smoke or use nicotine products, as they can delay healing.
• Sexual intercourse: Avoid sexual activity for at least 3 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all your scheduled follow-up appointments to allow your surgeon to monitor your progress and remove any drains or stitches.

Recovery timeline

What are the benefits of an abdominoplasty?

1. Improved appearance: A tummy tuck removes excess, sagging skin and stubborn fat to create a flatter, firmer, and smoother stomach. By surgically tightening the underlying abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck can also make a slimmer, more defined waistline.
2. Restored Core Strength and Posture: A tummy tuck repairs separated abdominal muscles (a condition known as diastasis recti), which restores strength and stability to the core. A stronger core provides better support for your spine, often leading to improved posture and a reduction in chronic lower back pain caused by muscle weakness.
3. Improved Physical Comfort: Removing large folds of overhanging skin can eliminate irritation, rashes, and infections. Some people also experience improved bladder control (relief from stress urinary incontinence) due to the enhanced pelvic support. This can make physical activities and exercise easier and more enjoyable.
4. Increased confidence: Many people experience a significant boost in self-esteem and body confidence after surgery. Feeling more comfortable in your own skin and seeing clothes fit better often improves overall quality of life and provides strong motivation to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle in the long term.

What are the risks and complications of tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty)?

Most people recover well after a tummy tuck. However, like any surgery, it carries risks — from general complications to those specific to abdominoplasty.

Before your tummy tuck, your consultant (surgeon) will talk you through these risks, answer any questions, and help you feel more confident going into surgery.

General complications

• Pain
• Infection: Surgical wounds can become infected. This is usually treated with antibiotics.
• Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding is normal; however, if you experience heavy or continuous bleeding, please get in touch with your consultant or healthcare team immediately.
• Haematoma: A build-up of blood under the skin, which might need to be drained.
• Blood clots (Deep vein Thrombosis DVT): A rare risk associated with any surgery.
• Allergic reaction to the anaesthesia, surgical tools or dressings.
• Scarring: All surgery leaves scars. Some may become raised, thickened, or darker than the surrounding skin. In rare cases, scar revision may be needed.
• Fluid build-up (seroma): Clear fluid can collect under the skin and may require drainage.
• Poor wound healing: Incisions (cuts) may take longer to heal or reopen. Smoking and specific health conditions increase this risk.

Specific complications of abdominoplasty surgery

• Numbness after tummy tuck: Changes in skin sensation around the stomach are common. These may be temporary, but in some patients, numbness may be permanent.
• Skin discolouration or prolonged swelling: Bruising and swelling are expected but can last longer in some cases.
• Fat necrosis: When fat under the skin dies, it can cause firm lumps or uneven contours.
• Asymmetry: The tummy or belly button may look slightly uneven after surgery.
• Unwanted cosmetic results: Sometimes the outcome isn’t as expected. You may notice wrinkling, ‘dog ears’ (puckers at the ends of the scar), or loose skin, which could need scar revision surgery.
• Belly button complications: Rarely, the belly button may be scarred, positioned unevenly, or lose blood supply.
• Injury to deeper tissues: In rare cases, the surgery may affect deeper structures, such as nerves or blood vessels, which may require further treatment.

Pain after tummy tuck surgery

You will likely feel sore and tight after surgery, especially if your abdominal muscles were repaired. Pain is usually most noticeable in the first few days, but it should improve over time.

• Your consultant will prescribe pain relief to help manage this
• You may feel bruised, tight or swollen — this is normal and will ease as you recover.
• Light walking, good posture and wearing your support garment can all help reduce discomfort.
• If pain becomes severe or doesn’t improve, speak to your care team.

How long do tummy tuck results last?

A tummy tuck is designed to be long-lasting. The excess skin and fat that are removed will not grow back, but maintaining your results depends on your lifestyle choices.

To help your results last longer, you can:

• Maintain a stable weight: Gaining and losing large amounts of weight after surgery can undo the results.
• Wait until after pregnancy: Future pregnancies may stretch your tummy again, so most consultants recommend waiting if you plan to have more children.
• Live healthily: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and not smoking all help keep your results looking their best.
• Ageing is natural – Your skin and body will still change over time, but your tummy will usually remain firmer and flatter than before surgery.

Most people enjoy the benefits of their tummy tuck for many years — with proper aftercare and a healthy lifestyle, your results can last a lifetime.

Are there surgical alternatives to tummy tuck surgery?

If you're looking to improve the shape or tone of your abdomen but aren’t ready for a tummy tuck, other treatments may help depending on your needs and goals:

• Liposuction: Liposuction removes stubborn fat from targeted areas. It can help contour the body, but won’t tighten loose skin or repair muscle separation. Find out more about liposuction.
• VASER liposuction: A gentler form of liposuction that uses ultrasound technology to break down fat before removal. It’s commonly used for more precise sculpting and faster recovery. Find out more about VASER liposuction.
• Physiotherapy: If your abdominal concerns relate to posture, back pain or core weakness (especially after pregnancy), one of our physiotherapists may be able to support you with tailored rehabilitation and strengthening exercises. Find a physiotherapist near you.

Tummy tuck surgery cost

Click here and select your local Nuffield Health hospital to find the guide prices for a tummy tuck. Please note that the guide price stated is an approximate cost of treatment only. You will be given a fixed all-inclusive price for treatment following your initial consultation.

Spreading the cost

We offer flexible payment plans to make your treatment more accessible. You can spread the cost of your tummy tuck with a 0% interest-free personal medical loan over 10, 12, or 24 months through our trusted partner, Chrysalis Finance. Explore flexible finance options.