After weight loss or pregnancy, some abdominal skin may naturally retract and tighten. When this process does not occur, mild cases can result in stretch marks, while more severe cases lead to loose skin and soft tissue that may require correction with an abdominal lift, commonly known as a tummy tuck, or the removal of the fat apron. In extreme cases, these procedures may be medically indicated.
Pregnancy or prolonged obesity can also weaken the abdominal muscles, leading to an enlarged waistline that cannot be corrected through exercise.
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia. We remove sagging soft tissue from the lower abdomen and tighten the soft tissue of the upper abdomen. If necessary, the abdominal muscles are also tightened, creating a slimmer and firmer waistline. The belly button is repositioned to its natural location, and scars are discreetly placed along the upper edge of the pubic area and around the belly button.
After the procedure, you will need to wear an abdominal binder day and night for six weeks, followed by daytime use only for an additional six weeks.
An abdominal lift can also be combined with a thigh lift.
Overview: Abdominal lift (tummy tuck)
- Procedure duration: ~1.5–3 hours
- Anaesthesia: general anaesthesia
- Stay: ~2 nights
- Inability to work: ~2 weeks
- Abdominal binder day and night for 6 weeks, then during the day for an additional 6 weeks