Tummy tuck

As a responsible provider of cosmetic surgery, we understand that each individual's procedure is different and will be tailored specifically around the patient. Because of this, we place a great deal of importance on our free face-to-face, no obligation consultations. Following our consultation process your patient advisor will provide a detailed pricing overview around the particular procedure. Please view our pricing and finance page to read more about our flexible credit options, available via our partnership with a specialist financial provider. More info here.

A tummy tuck is generally performed using one of two methods – a standard tummy tuck or a modified tummy tuck. Your surgeon will discuss with you the best method to help you achieve your desired goals. During tummy tuck surgery, a curved shape incision is made along the base of your abdomen, and excess skin and fat is removed. The remaining skin is pulled back into place and incisions are closed with stitches. During the procedure, your surgeon will also make a second incision to re-position your belly button to suit your new-found tummy.

Tummy tuck surgery takes around three hours and is performed under general anaesthetic. You will need to stay in one of our Transform hospitals for at least two nights after surgery.

You’ll need to stay in one of our hospitals for at least two nights following your tummy tuck procedure.

Your tummy will feel sore after surgery, and you should expect to see some bruising and swelling for a few weeks following your procedure. We will provide you with pain relief during your hospital stay and also advise on managing any discomfort when you return home.

It can take up to six weeks to make a full recovery from your tummy tuck, but this does vary between individuals. After surgery, you will be fitted with a tight-fitting support garment to help with the healing process – it is important that you wear this and follow the aftercare advice given to you. When the garment is removed you should be able to see your results, though it may take a few more months for your tummy to settle completely and for final results to be seen.

Recovery time varies from person to person. We usually advise you to take between 2-3 weeks off work, depending on the physical requirements of your job.

There will be some visible scarring following surgery which is usually across the lower abdomen – most people find that this can be hidden by underwear. Overtime, scarring will fade, however it can take up to a year after surgery before you can see the final appearance of your scar.

The first step is to meet your patient advisor. You’ll be able to talk to them about why you’re considering tummy tuck surgery, the likely costs and finance options, how much time you’ll probably need to take off work, and when you’d like to have the surgery. If you feel ready, we’ll then book you in for your free consultation with one of our surgeons.

At your free consultation, your surgeon will ask you about the results you want to achieve from the surgery. You can discuss every aspect of your tummy tuck – from the surgical methods and recovery time to the benefits and risks – with no obligation to go ahead. Our surgeons are extremely knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions you have. Your surgeon will talk to you about the best tummy tuck method to achieve your goals. Abdominoplasty is a major procedure and you’ll want to feel fully informed about the process, the operation and the results you can realistically expect. If you feel ready to go ahead and book your surgery, they’ll then refer you to a clinic nurse who’ll perform some pre-op tests and procedures.

Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and you’ll need to stay in one of our Transform hospitals for at least two nights after surgery. On the day of your surgery, you’ll meet with your surgeon so you can go through the consent form and ask any last-minute questions. You’ll then be introduced to the rest of your surgical team before going into theatre. During the three-hour procedure, your surgeon will use either a ‘standard’ or ‘modified’ tummy tuck method depending on your needs, which they will have discussed with you. For a ‘standard’ tummy tuck, a long incision is made into the abdomen running above the pubic area in a curved shape, then a second incision to remove your belly button. Your surgeon will then pull your tummy muscles back together and stitch them in place. Excess fat is removed and your belly button repositioned. Excess skin is then removed, the remaining skin is pulled into place and the incisions closed with stitches. For a ‘modified’ tummy tuck, excess fat and skin is removed from below your belly button and the muscles tightened, but the belly button remains in place.

You’ll stay in one of our hospitals for at least two nights following your tummy tuck procedure. Our hospitals are purpose built for cosmetic surgery and all staff are specially trained in cosmetic surgery patient care. We’ll be here throughout the recovery process to help you recuperate quickly and safely. Your tummy is likely to be sore and swollen after surgery and you’ll be fitted with a tight-fitting support garment. This will help with the healing process, though you will have bruising and swelling for a few weeks. Before you go home, your nurse will talk to you about the importance of wearing the compression garment, how to take care of your stitches and the practicalities of hygiene and bathing. We’ll also make an appointment for you to see your surgeon again within two weeks to remove your stitches and check on your progress.

We believe that the highest quality aftercare is just as important as the surgery itself, so we’re here to support you. You’ll need to give your body plenty of time to heal and we’ll give you detailed guidance on the best way to do this. You’ll have a further post-op appointment so we can check that you’re healing well and happy with the results. When your compression garment is removed, you should see an immediate improvement, though it may take a few more months for your tummy to settle completely into its new toned state. If you have any questions or concerns at all, you can contact our 24/7 helpline. All patients have access to our three-year aftercare programme as standard and you’ll have the option to extend cover to up to 10 years.