Tummy tuck surgery, also called Abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes loose abdominal skin to improve body shape. It is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed today.
Who Is a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have loose abdominal skin after multiple pregnancies.
- Experienced massive weight loss after bariatric surgery (e.g., sleeve gastrectomy, gastric banding, or gastric balloon insertion).
- Lost weight through diet and exercise, but your abdominal skin remains loose and sagging.
- Had liposuction, but the skin did not retract properly.
Consultation Process
During a consultation:
- The extent of loose skin is assessed—whether it is below the umbilicus, above it, or extends to the sides and back.
- The rectus muscles (recti) are examined for separation (diastasis recti).
- The procedure, benefits, side effects, and expected outcomes are discussed.
- Any medical conditions that may affect healing (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, heart disease) are evaluated.
Preparation for Surgery
Before surgery:
- General fitness assessment is conducted.
- Baseline blood tests, ECG, and chest X-ray are performed to ensure fitness for general anesthesia.
- Marking of the surgical area is done before surgery.
Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery
The type of tummy tuck depends on the extent of excess skin:
- Mini Tummy Tuck – Removes a small amount of excess skin below the belly button.
- Standard Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) – Removes skin and tightens muscles in the abdominal area.
- Extended Tummy Tuck – Addresses excess skin on the abdomen and flanks.
- Belt Lipectomy – Removes circumferential loose skin (for massive weight loss patients).
- Tummy Tuck with Liposuction – Combines skin tightening with fat removal.
Procedure Steps
- General anesthesia is administered.
- The surgical site is sterilized and marked.
- An incision is made in the lower abdomen.
- Skin is lifted, and abdominal muscles are tightened (rectus plication).
- Excess skin is removed, and the umbilicus is repositioned.
- Hemostasis (bleeding control) is ensured, and the incision is sutured.
- A dressing and compression garment are applied.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Hospital stay: 1–2 days.
- Early mobilization is encouraged (bending slightly while walking).
- Drains are removed after 1–2 days.
- Follow-up visit after 1 week.
- Compression garment is worn for 4–6 weeks.
- Swelling subsides within 2–3 weeks.
- Stitches are removed after 2 weeks.
- Return to work: After 2 weeks.
- Full results: Visible after 6 weeks to 6 months.
Results and Expectations
With a qualified plastic surgeon, tummy tuck results are excellent, with a 95% patient satisfaction rate. Patients regain their body shape, confidence, and the ability to wear their preferred clothing styles.
Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
- Restores body contour and shape.
- Improves self-confidence.
- Scars remain hidden under underwear.
- Enhances waist definition.
- Achieves symmetry in body shape.
Possible Complications
When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, risks are minimal. However, some complications can include:
- Hematoma formation (blood collection under the skin).
- Seroma formation (fluid buildup under the skin).
- Infection.
- Scarring.
- Asymmetry.
- Wound dehiscence (stitches breaking open).
- Scar hypertrophy (thickened scars).
- Numbness in skin edges.
- Umbilical discoloration.
- Swelling.
Cost of Tummy Tuck Surgery
The cost varies based on the type of tummy tuck and whether liposuction is included:
💰 90,000 to 350,000 PKR