Abdominoplasty, often called a tummy tuck, removes selected excess abdominal skin and fat and may repair abdominal muscle separation when clinically appropriate. It is not a weight-loss treatment and should not be presented as a guaranteed way to restore confidence or achieve a particular body shape.
For detailed procedure information, review the main abdominoplasty guide.
Types of abdominoplasty
The surgical plan may be described as mini, full or extended abdominoplasty depending on the amount and location of skin excess, muscle laxity, previous scars and the patient’s anatomy. Liposuction may be used as an adjunct in selected cases, but it serves a different purpose. The tummy tuck vs liposuction comparison explains the distinction.
Who may be considered?
Potential candidates may include people with persistent abdominal skin laxity after pregnancy or major weight change and patients with abdominal muscle separation. Weight stability, smoking or nicotine use, future pregnancy plans, medical conditions and expectations should be reviewed before surgery.
Recovery and risks
Recovery varies with the extent of surgery and individual healing. Patients should follow the treating surgeon’s instructions for activity, lifting, wound care, support garments and return to work rather than relying on fixed universal timelines.
- Bleeding, infection or fluid collection
- Delayed wound healing or noticeable scars
- Changes in skin sensation or contour
- Blood clots and anaesthesia-related complications
- Asymmetry or need for revision treatment
If localized fat rather than loose skin or muscle laxity is the main concern, review the liposuction guide. For individual assessment and discussion of alternatives, use the contact page.