Tummy Tuck - an Overview

An abdominoplasty, better known as a 'tummy tuck', is a very popular plastic surgery procedure. It's so popular in fact, that it was the fifth most popular cosmetic surgery worldwide in 2021 - surpassed only by liposuction, breast surgeries, eyelid surgery and nose jobs.

A tummy tuck is therefore a highly sought-after procedure. But how does the surgery work? What are the risks and side effects? How much does a tummy tuck cost? In this article, we will shed some light on these questions and inform you about the most important facts.

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a purely aesthetic procedure that aims to remove excess skin and fat tissue in the abdominal area, making the muscles there more visible. The effect is that the figure appears slimmer and weight is also reduced, which helps many patients gain more self-confidence.

Although the majority of recipients are female, the number of male patients is increasing. Many clinics already offer separate treatment options specifically targeted towards the latter group.

What Are the Reasons for Getting a Tummy Tuck?

The decision to undergo an abdominoplasty can have various different reasons. However, the most common ones include the following:

• Pregnancy: after giving birth, many women are left with some excess skin that cannot be returned to its previous state. A tummy tuck can help remove this and restore the abdomen closer to its original look. It's no wonder that a tummy tuck is part of a 'mommy makeover', which is a combination of breast and abdominal surgery, along with liposuction.

• Weight loss: besides pregnancy (which can also involve rapid weight loss), patients who have achieved significant weight loss are often candidates for an abdominoplasty. As the skin in the abdominal area stretches significantly during weight gain, it loses volume and elasticity if the weight is lost again. An abdominoplasty with liposuction can remove excess skin and fat tissue, making the abdomen appear much tighter.

• Age-related changes: as we get older, the skin loses firmness and elasticity. Additionally, the abdominal muscles weaken without targeted exercise, causing the overlying skin to sag, and existing fat deposits become more prominent. By tightening the abdomen through surgery, the entire area appears flatter and firmer.

• Genetic predisposition: some people are more naturally prone to developing fat accumulation in the abdominal area, even if they maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. In such cases, a tummy tuck can help reshape the figure.

What Techniques Are There?

When talking about a tummy tuck, it mostly refers to the complete abdominoplasty, where excess tissue is extensively removed from the target area. However, a 'mini tummy tuck' is also an option, where less fat is removed overall, but with which additional procedures can also be combined. Here is a brief overview of the individual techniques:

Complete Abdominoplasty:

This form of tummy tuck is particularly suitable for patients with significant excess skin in the abdominal area. In this method, a horizontal incision is made along the lower abdominal line, as well as a vertical incision towards the navel, so excess skin and fat tissue can be removed.

Mini Tummy Tuck:

If the excess skin is mainly in the lower abdominal area, a mini tummy tuck may be a suitable option. This procedure is less extensive as it requires only a smaller incision.

Combined Procedure:

In some cases, it is also beneficial to combine an abdominoplasty with liposuction to achieve optimal results. This is often the case with a mommy makeover. The advantage is that two procedures are perfomred in a single session. Additionally, many clinics offer these surgeries as a package, which can also help patients to save money.

How Is a Tummy Tuck Carried Out?

A tummy tuck is considered a routine procedure and is always performed by experienced plastic surgeons under general anesthesia – so, don't worry, you won't feel anything during the surgery.

Before the actual treatment, however, you will first have a comprehensive consultation with your surgeon, during which various aspects will be discussed, such as your expectations and the technique that will be used. Your surgeon will also inform you about the entire treatment process and any potential risks.

During the operation, your surgeon will remove excess skin and fat tissue, making the abdominal muscles more visible and defined.

After the surgery, your body will need time to heal; you can expect the recovery phase to last about two weeks, though everyone's individual experience will vary. During this time, you should avoid strenuous activities and refrain from stretching and straining your upper body. During the first ten days, it is advisable to sit as little as possible to avoid putting additional strain on the wounds. The final results become visible four to six months later. However, it may take up to a year for the tummy tuck scar to fully heal.

What Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?

The costs for an abdominoplasty vary depending on the country, region, clinic, surgical complexity, and the chosen technique – ultimately, the more extensive the procedure, the higher the costs. Moreover, expensive post-operative care can also increase the price. So, what does a tummy tuck cost? UK clinics offer the procedure for around €7,000 on average. For many patients, this sort of price is out of range, which is why they look abroad for a cheaper yet high-quality tummy tuck. Turkey receives a great deal of international patients for this reason.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

Like any other surgical procedure, an abdominoplasty carries certain risks, which your surgeon will explain them to you in detail during your consultation. The most common side effects include:

• Bruising

• Swelling

• Poor healing of incisions

• Infections

• Reduced skin sensitivity in the lower abdomen

• Wound healing issues

At Qunomedical, you can be assured that we always work with thoroughly vetted and qualified experts. Our focus is on providing high-quality and affordable treatment to you. Contact us so that we can make your desired treatment happen!

Sources:

International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery: 'ISAPS International Survey on Aesthetic/Cosmetic Procedures Performed in 2021', last accessed 04.08.2023

American Society of Plastic Surgeons: 'Tummy Tuck', last accessed 04.08.2023

NHS: 'Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)', last accessed 04.08.2023