The purpose of a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) is to remove fat and excess skin from the lower abdomen as well as tightening and repairing the abdominal muscles.

What does the procedure involve?

The surgery is performed under general anesthetic. There are two types of abdominoplasty; a partial or mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck.

In a partial tummy tuck an incision is made across the lower abdomen, the skin is separated from the abdominal wall and excess fat is removed. The surgeon will then cut away the excess skin. The remaining skin is then pulled down and stitched together at the line of the first incision.

With a full tummy tuck an incision is made across the lower abdomen from hip bone to hip bone and a second incision is made around the belly button to free it from the abdominal wall. The surgeon then pulls down the muscles and stitches them in place and removes any excess fat and skin. A new hole is created for a belly button and the skin is all stitched together at the first incision.

What are the benefits and what are the risks?

Benefits

Your stomach will be flatter, smoother and tighter and excess 'baggy' skin will have been removed. The abdominal muscles will look and feel tighter as they will have been repaired.

Risks

Risks may include poor healing and irregularities, whereby puckering can occur on the edges of the scar. Scarring is permanent, but will reduce and fade with time, and they are usually placed where they cannot be seen in most clothing, including bikinis. In extremely rare cases blood clots may develop so you should start moving around as soon as possible to avoid this.

Is it the right procedure for me?

Many people who opt for a tummy tuck are those who have tried diet and exercise and have been unsuccessful with the results, or those who have significant loose skin due to weight fluctuations or pregnancies. Women who are planning to become pregnant in the future may be advised to wait to have surgery as the muscles which are tightened during the procedure will separate again.

How long does the procedure take?

The length of surgery depends on the extent of the work being done but could take up to three hours, in some cases a couple more.

What happens after surgery?

You will be required to stay in hospital at least overnight, sometimes for a couple of days. You should expect to feel extreme soreness and discomfort which can be alleviated with medication. When you leave hospital the dressing will be removed and you will need to wear an abdominal support garter. You will have to take time off work for a couple of weeks to rest and you will also be advised not to lift anything or participate in any exercise for a month. Bruising is minimal after the operation but swelling may take a couple of months to go down.

How much is it likely to cost?

Like most surgery the cost will reflect the amount of work being done as well as differing between surgeries. However you will be expected to pay in the region of £5,000 and £8,000.