What is an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)?

An abdominoplasty is a body contouring procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen. It aims to achieve a number of objectives:

• To remove the abdominal pannus and provide a smooth contour between the lower abdomen and upper thigh and pubic regions without any overhang.

• To create a more ‘hourglass’ appearance to the abdomen in certain cases, particularly women.

• To create an aesthetically pleasing belly button.

• To correct any rectus diastasis and create better midline definition.

• To rejuvenate and correct any mons ptosis if required.

What are the different types of abdominoplasty?

There are different types of abdominoplasty depending upon how much soft tissue excess a patient has. At Mohan Plastic Surgery we are able to provide mini, standard, extended, fleur-de-lis and circumferential procedures based on each specific patient’s needs. These are often combined with liposuction to achieve optimal results.

Who is a good candidate for an abdominoplasty?

Patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with a surplus of loose skin are good candidates for surgery. These patients have worked hard to lose their weight but often cannot achieve the abdominal contour they desire because of excess skin.

For many women, pregnancy and C-sections can lead to excess skin and fat often in combination with weakened abdominal muscles. Abdominoplasty is often a good option to restore the body to its pre-pregnancy condition.

What is the right time for an abdominoplasty?

With any body contouring procedure, the best time to undergo surgery is when you have reached your target weight and one that you feel you can maintain in the long term. Your weight should ideally have remained stable for six months prior to surgery. This is to ensure that the cosmetic outcome following surgery is not compromised and to minimise the risk of complications and maximise healing.

What is the recovery like after abdominoplasty?

The duration of recovery following abdominoplasty depends upon the type of surgery that a patient has. The initial dressings following surgery will stay on for the first 5-7 days. Following this first dressing change patients are able to shower and use a simple micropore tape dressing on the scar. Patients are usually mobile a few hours after surgery and walking normally after one week. After discharge from hospital, simple tablet painkillers are usually enough to keep patients comfortable. Our patients are advised to wear a compression garment for 6 weeks postoperatively to minimise swelling and reduce the risk of complications.

We recommend avoiding driving and long haul flights for at least four weeks after surgery. Patients are usually back to normal 6-8 weeks after surgery.

How much is an abdominoplasty?

The cost of abdominoplasty is dependent upon the type of procedure that you have. At Mohan Plastic Surgery we create a bespoke treatment plan based on each patient’s specific needs. Our prices are competitive with other providers in London and reflect our ability to provide treatment at the world famous Lindo wing with its royal pedigree.