Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. This is commonly sought after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or ageing when exercise and diet alone cannot address loose skin and muscle laxity. The procedure can dramatically improve abdominal contour and, in some cases, relieve back discomfort. It is performed under general anaesthetic and can be combined with liposuction.
What does a Tummy Tuck procedure involve?
Your surgeon will assess the extent of excess skin, muscle separation (diastasis recti), fat distribution, and any previous scars. The approach is tailored to your concerns:
Mini abdominoplasty: Addresses the area below the belly button only. Shorter scar, faster recovery.
Full abdominoplasty: The most common approach. A hip-to-hip incision allows removal of excess skin and fat across the entire abdomen and repositioning of the belly button. Abdominal muscles are tightened from rib cage to pubic bone with permanent sutures.
Extended abdominoplasty: Extends around the flanks for patients with excess skin on the sides, often after significant weight loss.
Circumferential abdominoplasty (body lift): Addresses the full torso including abdomen, flanks, lower back, and buttocks. Reserved for post-bariatric patients with circumferential skin excess.
Fleur-de-Lis: Adds a vertical incision for patients with significant horizontal and vertical skin excess.
Surgery takes two to four hours. Drains are placed to prevent fluid accumulation and removed within one to two weeks. A compression garment is applied.
Recovery
Significant discomfort, tightness, and limited mobility are expected in the first week. You will walk slightly bent initially to avoid tension on the incision. Most patients return to desk work at two to three weeks, with strenuous activity and exercise avoided for six to eight weeks. Final results are visible at six to twelve months. The scar fades over twelve to twenty-four months but remains permanent.
Risks and Complications
Infection, bleeding, or haematoma
Seroma — relatively common, may require drainage
Wound healing problems, particularly at the T-junction
Numbness of the lower abdomen
Scarring, including wide or thickened scars
Fat necrosis
Skin necrosis — higher risk in smokers
Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
Belly button complications
Dog ears at the ends of the incision
Need for revision surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a good candidate?
Ideal candidates are at or near their goal weight with excess abdominal skin and muscle laxity that does not respond to diet and exercise. You should be a non-smoker, in good health, and have completed your family.
What is the difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction?
Liposuction removes excess fat but does not address loose skin or muscle separation. Abdominoplasty addresses all three. They are often combined.
How long do results last?
Results are long-lasting if you maintain stable weight and do not become pregnant. The improvement in abdominal contour is generally permanent.
THE SPECIALIST CLINIC DUBLIN
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery performed with Care & Compassion
To find out whether abdominoplasty is suitable for you, contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our consultant plastic surgeons.